La Esquina would have to be one of my New York favourite restaurants. Australia could really take a look at New York restaurants, about the experience they create, the mood that is set. From the moment we entered La Esquina, we were on an adventure.

To get to the restaurant, you enter through the Taquira – a grungy retro take away style store. We sidled up to a man on a chair and mentioned we had a reservation (you’ll need to book 3 weeks in advance to the day) and were sent down some narrow, dark stairs. From there we were directed through the kitchen (yes!) before we found our way into the brasserie.

The lighting and decor was dark, exotic and intriguing – a perfect contrast to the brightly lit upstairs Taquira – and fitting for the mood they were trying to set – exclusive, hidden. The service at La Esquina was amazing, and the food incredible – I really loved all the crab and lobster they serve in New York – crab taquidos – delicious!

Give some thought to the lighting when planning your next event – what sort of mood do you want to project?