Hidden beneath RedFarm's bustling West Village storefront, Decoy New York City transforms the art of Peking duck into an intimate culinary theater. This subterranean speakeasy, tucked away in an 1828 brownstone on Hudson Street, beckons discerning diners into a world where traditional Chinese craftsmanship meets modern Manhattan sophistication.

Founded in 2014 by dim sum master Chef Joe Ng and the late Chinese cuisine expert Ed Schoenfeld, Decoy emerged as the specialized sibling to their acclaimed RedFarm empire. Under Jeffrey Chodorow's China Grill Management, this underground sanctuary has earned reverence among New York City fine dining cognoscenti for its unwavering dedication to perfection. The restaurant's focused vision—elevating a single dish to extraordinary heights—represents a bold departure from the expansive menus typical of Manhattan's competitive landscape.

At Decoy, Peking duck transcends mere sustenance to become culinary poetry. Chef Ng's meticulous multi-day preparation process yields birds with impossibly crispy skin that shatters at first touch, revealing succulent meat beneath. Each duck arrives tableside with ceremonial flourish, accompanied by gossamer-thin house-made pancakes, julienned scallions, and artisanal hoisin sauce. Beyond the signature offering, the tasting menu features inspired creations like Foie Gras & Strawberry Tarts—a decadent marriage of richness and brightness—and Black Truffle Chicken Soup Dumplings that burst with luxurious broth. The Pan-Fried Branzino with Spicy Miso showcases the kitchen's versatility, while Stir-Fried Lobster with Egg and Crispy Noodles delivers textural complexity that defines contemporary Chinese gastronomy.

The intimate forty-seat dining room embraces its speakeasy heritage with warm lighting and cozy banquettes that encourage lingering conversations. Decoy's carefully curated cocktail program features artisanal libations designed to complement the rich, complex flavors of duck and accompanying dishes. The sommelier-selected wine list emphasizes bottles that enhance rather than compete with the cuisine's bold profiles. Service strikes the perfect balance between attentive professionalism and downtown casualness, with servers well-versed in the intricacies of proper duck consumption.

Reservations at this best restaurant in New York City require advance planning, as word-of-mouth acclaim has transformed Decoy from hidden gem to essential destination. The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice, though the duck-centric focus makes this primarily a carnivore's paradise. Smart casual attire suits the refined yet approachable atmosphere.

For those seeking New York City's most authentic Peking duck experience, Decoy offers an unparalleled journey into Chinese culinary tradition. Reserve well ahead for this underground treasure where every meal becomes a memorable celebration of craft, tradition, and innovation.