The new Dutch herring was delayed two weeks this year, but it’s finally due to arrive in the city on June 19 (photo by twi-ny/mdr)
Grand Central Oyster Bar, Grand Central Terminal, lower level, 212-490-6650
Russ & Daughters, 179 East Houston St., 212-475-4880
Restaurant Aquavit, 65 East 55th St., 212-307-7311
We are hungry for herring! This year’s annual shipment of Hollandse Nieuwe Haring from Scheveningen was delayed two weeks because of the weather; if this is because of climate change, well, then, this is a big-time reason why we need to do something about it, and fast. After being sampled by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, the seasonal delicacies are air-expressed to New York City, where they will be available at three prime locations for approximately three weeks. Beginning on June 19, the Grand Central Oyster Bar will be serving the Silver of the Sea from a special cart (marked De Haringkoning — the Herring King) in a cozy nook by the bar, accompanied by chopped egg, diced raw onion, and seeded flatbread, along with genever (Dutch gin) as desired. Each bite is a delectable taste sensation that should be slowly savored, never rushed. You can also delight in the new catch at Russ & Daughters, where the marvelous matjes herring, two fillets attached at the tail, are available for takeout at the counter, although you should strongly consider ordering in advance. In addition, the Russ & Daughters Herring Celebration on June 18 ($75, 6:00) at the Astor Center, with Dutch guest chef Linda Steen and special wine pairings, is almost sold out, so act quickly if you want to get in on the gastronomic fun. And Aquavit’s annual Herring Festival takes place on June 22, with a three-course prix fixe lunch ($42). Advice columnist Ann Landers once said, “If you want to catch trout, don’t fish in a herring barrel.” Well, this month, fishing in a herring barrel is definitely the way to go.