Time and Tide: Chef Jamal James Kent’s New Wave in NYC’s Seafood Scene

A New Culinary Tide Near Madison Square Park

In the vibrant heart of Manhattan, a new seafood restaurant is making waves—Time and Tide, the latest project by award-winning chef Jamal James Kent, opens its doors just steps from Madison Square Park. Known for his creative precision and emotionally resonant spaces, Kent invites diners into more than just a meal—he’s inviting them into his story.

This new establishment joins Kent’s acclaimed downtown destinations, Crown Shy and Saga, but with a character distinctly its own. Time and Tide is a tribute not only to the ocean’s bounty but also to the chef’s rich tapestry of personal memories, passions, and influences.

The Story Behind the Concept

Time and Tide isn’t just a restaurant name—it’s a poetic nod to life’s ebb and flow, deeply resonant with Kent’s own journey through food, family, and heritage. The ambiance of the space reflects this theme, marrying elegance with warmth and nostalgia.

Upon entering, diners are greeted by an arresting image of Biggie Smalls—a motif familiar to fans of Kent’s other ventures. But here, this isn’t merely a hip-hop homage. It represents a larger cultural dialogue, a reverence for artistry, rhythm, and identity that permeates every aspect of the restaurant’s design and soul.

Other subtle yet meaningful personal touches are woven throughout the space. The terracotta flooring is a deliberate echo of the tiles that adorned his late grandmother Sue Mingus’ home in Sag Harbor, a place Kent remembers fondly. Her memory is further honored through a private dining room named after the street she lived on, providing an intimate culinary setting that feels like home.

A Culinary Philosophy Anchored in Emotion

Chef Kent’s culinary philosophy has always been rooted in emotion. At Time and Tide, that philosophy is executed with finesse by Executive Chef Danny Garcia, a long-time collaborator and fellow culinary visionary. Their shared outlook goes beyond technique—it's about telling a story through each dish, one that diners can both taste and feel.

While the restaurant is grounded in seafood, the menu doesn’t limit itself to the traditional. Instead, it explores global interpretations of coastal cuisine. Expect elegant yet bold flavor profiles, meticulously sourced ingredients, and refined plating that remains approachable. There is a fluidity to the menu—an homage to the tides themselves—allowing seasonal ingredients and creative impulses to shape the experience over time.

Where Style Meets Service

Chef Kent has long been known for marrying aesthetic detail with culinary artistry. At Time and Tide, style extends from the décor to the uniforms. One whimsical yet defining feature: all servers wear New Balance sneakers. This nod to Kent’s reputation as a sneaker enthusiast (a trait shared with Chef Garcia) is more than fashion—it’s a statement of ease, personality, and forward-thinking hospitality.

The overall design, led by lighting designer David Weiner, brings warmth and softness to the space. A custom light installation glows like the sunsets Kent used to watch with his family, creating a mood that’s both romantic and grounded. These sensory choices are deliberate—each element drawing patrons deeper into a shared experience that blends food, memory, and place.

What Makes the Menu Special

The menu at Time and Tide offers a journey across oceans and continents, capturing the essence of diverse coastal cuisines while remaining distinctly New York. From pristine raw bar selections to inventive takes on classic seafood preparations, the dishes promise both sophistication and soul.

Notable standouts include crudo delicately balanced with citrus and spice, grilled fish with smoky, herbaceous finishes, and comforting yet upscale reinterpretations of dishes like clam chowder or bouillabaisse. The cocktail menu complements the food with equally creative flair, highlighting sea-inspired ingredients and globally-influenced spirits.

Sustainability is also a priority. The team behind Time and Tide is committed to responsible sourcing, ensuring that their selections support healthy oceans and communities. This adds another layer of integrity to the culinary narrative.

Beyond the Plate: Culture and Community

More than a fine dining destination, Time and Tide aspires to be a cultural hub. Through music, visual cues, and storytelling, it speaks to a broader audience that appreciates the richness of food as an expression of self and community.

This inclusive spirit is reflected in the staff, the clientele it attracts, and the conversations it inspires. Whether it’s a first-time visitor or a long-time fan of Kent’s restaurants, each guest finds themselves part of something deeply human and beautifully curated.

Conclusion: Riding the New Wave

With Time and Tide, Jamal James Kent has created a space where culinary excellence meets emotional depth. It’s a restaurant built on personal memory, artistic homage, and an unwavering dedication to quality. In a city as dynamic as New York, it takes something truly special to stand out. Time and Tide does so with quiet confidence, offering a dining experience that is immersive, meaningful, and delicious.

For those who cherish food with a story, ambiance with soul, and service with style, this seafood gem near Madison Square Park is not to be missed. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about the tide of emotions and memories that come with every bite.