acenyc's Profile
Best Cassoulet in a friendly French Rest Please?
Your timing is perfect! February is Cassoulet month at Savoy!
http://nymag.com/daily/food/2008/01/its_winter_so_that_means_savoy.html
can you name others like north fork inn, little owl...
How about Market Table, Little Giant or Blue Hill? I was just at Blue Hill on Friday and the short farm to table journey continues to bring fantastic rewards!
Grilled cheese sandwich in my cast iron is cooking unevenly
Instead of butter I lightly coat each side of the sanwich with mayonaise- for any of you who are mayo adverse you don't taste it. Picture perfect and delicious grilled cheese everytime.
Columbus Circle dinner
I work in CC and frequent most of the above. I would definitely agree with the Gabriel's recommendations- it is just lovely- wonderful food, presentation, service and space- and definite vegetarian options. Blue Ribbon is fine but I would not call it "special." I prefer it more for lunch. Landmarc in TW is horribly loud and can often have spotty service/food - an entirely different experience than the downtown location which I love. I would also second Picholine- especially after the beautiful rehab- nice wine bar.
Quality Bakery near 52nd and broadway?
Brasserie Cognac on 55th and Broadway has a lovely little bakery...
burger-philes - should I bother with J.G. melon?
We are Melon's regulars- granted it is in our 'hood and as it is hard for us to forego the cottage fries and bloody mary's with our burgers- we always consider going a treat- though I would love to go weekly. I am a non-beef eater but the turkey burgers are the best I have ever had- not too thick. My bf loves the chili as well- with all of the trimmings! ps- cash only
Mission Impossible: Rez for 16 in 2 days
Youi have a lot of great recs but one more I would throw out is Bricco on West 55th- just off of 8th- I work nearby and they have put together amazing lunches and dinners for clients on very short notice. Nino, the owner is one of the best hosts in the city- wonderful pastas and fish- all of the food is unbelievable and you will be in wonderful hands and have a fantastic time- I promise!
Where to find Mister Softee?
How fun! I work in the Columbus Circle area and for years they have been at 57th and Broadway and also on 60th and Broadway. Given the traffic constraints in the city, it seems a lot of them have regular spots. Happy Summer!!
Union Square Recommendations?
Do not miss Gotham if at all possible- it is a quintessentially NYC experience-. This village gem paved the way for the entire below "midtown" dining scene and hasn't missed a beat for decades. I am a regular and while I am sure other may debate- GB&G has never disappointed me or the countless diners I have sent - I was just there last week and the softshell crab was some of the best I have ever experienced. Not to mention it is a beautiful space with wonderful service.
Lunch with Girl Friends... where??
Nougatine at JeanGeorges will be a divine dine...
Dovetail Swoon?
Thanks for your note- my title selection was a bit "tongue in cheek"- I edited the title as I had meant to put a question mark. (I had intended to "swoon" but instead felt like fainting - aka "swoon"- when they led us to the basement)!
Dovetail Swoon?
I have just reviewed some of the recent posts about Dovetail - hoping to find some insight to explain how a dinner we had so eagerly anticipated turned out to be one of my worst dining experiences ever in New York City. Based on all of the reviews - not to mention Bruni's 3 stars I was actually going to save our first visit for a special occassion in May- thank heavens we decided to preview as I will not be going back. To start, I may have missed this in the my scan of previous posts but I don't see any comments about how they see it fit to seat diners in a basement!!! Before you go be sure to say you don't want to be seated in a basement that with its padded walls feels like a recording studio! The decor of the entire restaurant is very odd, I had noticed what I thought was a private dining room when I went downstairs to use the ladies room as soon as we arrived- it never dawned on me that they would acutally sit diners down there who weren't part of a private, large party!
We arrived a few minutes early for our 8:30 reservation, there are only 4 seats at a tiny bar and two small bar tables so there was literally no where to go, and no one seemed to acknowledge this- we finally got seats at the bar and after waiting over 20 minutes for our table were led to the dungeon! When I read that the restaurant was in a townhouse I expected something a bit more cozy- as another Chowhound mentioned- the restaurant feels like a rec room- well the basement feels like the storage room of the rec room. As we were being led down I expressed my dismay to the host that we were not informed that there was a downstairs dining room, which was compounded by the fact that we had been waiting over 20 minutes for what seemed to be an after-thought of a room. I have since checked the website and it appears this basement is indeed the "sherry cellar" and it is stated that it is used for private dining, apparently the crowds have forced them to use it as an extension of their main dining room, how they can get away with not informing diners of this prior to seating them in what is clearly a secondary space is beyond me.The host sat us and then returned to apologize and explain that it would be 5-10 minutes and he would try to sit us upstairs- I made it clear that we were on the verge of leaving- he was very upset and asked us to please allow him to "make it right," we had a few awkward minutes of debate and were about ready to leave when the host returned and said he had our table. We were sat in the back corner of the restauant in a banquette which was fine, however it was extremely loud and warm. The restaurant was very crowded and hectic- we waited a solid 3-4 minutes before our waiter came over to greet us- then we waited another several minutes for water. By the time our food finally came the wind had definitely left our sails- the amuse bouche- which seems to be the same they have been serving for weeks- based on previous posts - vodka gelee, capers and caviar- was terribly salty and unbalanced, they ran out of the brussels sprouts so I had a white asparagus salad with salmon. The asparagus was a limp, flavorless attempt and what I can only think of a substitution as it is not on the website menu. My boyfriend got the gnocchi with short ribs which has been raved about and it had the same flavor of boiled potatoes that have been thrown in with a pot rost. He got up in between courses to use the men's room and I was shocked when they went ahead and served our entrees while he was away from the table. A restaurant of this caliber should train its staff to recognize this very basic rule of service- especially when there are only two of us at the table. The server did come back with silver cloches to cover our entrees- unfortunately when my boyfriend returned to the table no one was there to take the cloches- and based on the small table there was no where to put them! The couple next to us had finished eating so had a clear table and noticing our predicament took the covers and put them on their table- how emabarssing for the restaurant! He did enjoy the ribeye - ordered ala carte off the tasting menu - this was perhaps the highlight of our otherwise dismal expereience. I had the duck which was also prepared nicely and had good flavor, though it was served with apples, not the celery root as described on the menu, and I still cannot determine some odd hash that accompanied it which was one of the most foul things I have ever been served. We had the whiskey chocolate parfait and the carrot cake for dessert- which I must say were lovely- clearly the pastry chef, Vera Tong, has control of this element of the menu. Unforutnatley, I would be hard pressed to find a reason to go back to Dovetail- for a restaruant that has been open this long they seem to be way off the mark. I have never been so disappointed. I would appreciate hearing recent feedback
BACHELORETTE PARTY NYC
Your timing is perfect- I am just sent invites for a bachelorette I am planning in April as well! As a long-time New Yorker with many bachelorette evenings under my belt- some forgetable- I will tell you one of the best, which I planned, started off at L'Orange Bleue www.lorangebleu.com down on Broome St. in SoHo. Hence my reason for returning for this celebration. It is a fabulous Moroccan-Mediteranean spot where you can order small plates, etc and share- which is great for large groups- then comes the entertainment- waiters singing, belly dancers swaying- and they will be sure to make your bachelorette a star- put her up on a chair- have her dance, etc. but only if she is game and nothing embarassing- it is a great way to celebrate and get a little wild and yet maintain a little dignity. I have been to all of the above places and I guatantee you will have a much better time and have a lot more money left for post-dinner cocktails! Have a great time and congratulations to the bride!
Union Square stumper
Irving Mill- Great bar- one block east of the square on 16th. Great bar and with interesting cocktails and lovely food and snacks. You will never be forced back to the Brewery!
Gramercy Tavern vs. Babbo- which to pick?
I hate to split the vote- but I would go with Gramercy hands down. I was at Babbo last week and it was an absolute nightmare- it is a complete bottleneck in the bar- you have to fight to get your coat checked, the service was apathetic and the food was sub-par. I am so disappointed because we have been going for years and our past two visits have been lackluster when compared to the old Babbo standards. On the other hand, Gramercy is always a lovely experience- the service is gracious and the food is better than ever. I know we all have different experiences depending on the night, the service, etc. so I would be interested to know other experiences.
Catering a very casual wedding party
Congratulations! Well, depending upon the oven situation at the loft- Trader Joe's in Union Square actually has some of the best frozen appetizers- they are consistently rated as such- check it out- stock up there add a few personal touches of decorations, candles,garnish and condiments and you shoul be good to go. If you have a car Stew Leonards can't be beat for apps in bulk! Follodw the rule of thumb of 4-6 apps per person/per hour and you will be golden. Don't forget to scatter bowls of nuts, olives, etc around and your guests will be thrilled! Good luck!
Bar seats for 1
Go celebrate your new found "singleness" and the season with a fabulous cocktail in the tavern room at Gramercy or Gotham- both have some of the best food in town- Irving Mill is a new addition to the "eat local and cozy up to the bar" scene so grab a stool and a a classic cocktail. Enjoy!
Union Square Area?
Bluewater Grill is always nice and right on the square- if you are willing to venture a few block off the square the front tavern room at Gramercy Tavern (East 20th) serves quite possibly some of the best food in town - with a side of warm hospitality - and is absolutely beautiful this time of year- no reservations taken- but show up early and you will not be disappointed.
blue hill vs. blue hill?
If you have seen my posts you know I frequently wax poetic about BH at Stone Barns. It is definitely a critical pilgrimage for all foodies. I have been there in all seasons- most recently last week and I have to admit that early summer is my favorite. You definitely need to take advantage of the late summer sun as others have posted and truly linger and surrender to the amazing experience. I was just there last week as well-we did the farm tating in which Dan Barber personally creates a 7 course tasting based on your preferences- we were there for almost 4 hours and it was truly the most incredible dining experience I have ever had. However, you really cannot appreciate the beauty of the farm in the dark. I actually recommend keeping the dining and farm touring separate. We have gone up several times on a Sunday- get there by 11 as it becomes over run by noon. The farmer's market starts at 1pm. This will give you time to roam the grounds freely, see the animals and vegetable greenhouses then grab a lunch to eat outside at the cafe- be sure to get on the cafe line by 12. That way you can be in your walking clothes and sneakers which wouldn't be appropriate for the restaurant. If you have children they will have a wonderful time. The Agricultural Center actually has a separate website which can be linked to through the Blue Hill site or directly at www.stonebarncenter.com. In terms of the restaurant they book 2 months out to the date and for a Saturday night they book up in about 3 minutes.
In terms of BH in the Village it is quite lovely and you will not be disappointed but I do have to agree with Bueno's post- we went to Gramercy for lunch last week in the tavern and my palate is still dancing- Mike Anthony (acutally Dan Barber's former partner at BH) is on fire. It is literally a autumnal explosion right now- I had the trout wrapped in bacon with swiss chard and it was one of the best things I have ever tasted. So save BH@SB for next year for dining- and try to get up on the weekend before it gets too cold. Run to GT now- if you get there on off hours to avoid a wait I still think the tavern is one of the best food experiences in town and go to BH in the city and enjoy the farm fresh tasts of the season!
Brunch spot on UES for a couple and both sets of parents
I agree with the Agata rec- we go there quite frequently and somehow this is one of the few spots on the UES where you can actually enjoy a nice brunch without being knocked over by crazed brunch crowds and long lines.
Blue Hill at Stone Barn [split from Manhattan]
I think Blue Hill would be an amazng "trip" and it feels just like that - a lovely epicurean jaunt! You never can plan on the weather- but go for it- you could always take MetroNorth to Tarrytown as a back-up. It is about a half an hour train ride from Grand Central and there are cabs waiting to whisk you the less than 10 minute drive to Blue Hill. Of course you will miss a bit of the luxury factor but at least if it is snowing you would have an alternate plan. This is common ftransportation for many BH diners so they can imbibe freely. BH is just off the Sawmill so depending on traffic shoudln't take you more than 45 minutes or so from Midtown. Have you called them yet- don't delay- it may be the toughest reservation after the French Laundry. I really think it could be what you are searching for. If you can swing it- go up before to plan- these fall weekends are just gorgeous up there. I am taking a group up on Saturday and cannot wait. Let me know if it works out! Also, if you can't pull it off I agree with kobetobiko- Del Posto is just beautiful- and quite grand- you would have a lovely time. Good luck!
Last year Per Se - what now?
Clem, very impressive list and therefore hard to top- I think Per Se is going to be riding the crest of the NYC scene for at least a couple of years- doesn't seem to be anything new this year or on the horizon anywhere near PS level. Your consideration list is certainly lovely but at a different level than PS and Alaine Ducasse. Question - are you considering Blue Hill in the Village or Pocantico Hills? If you had to classify, is your group more formal gourmands or hard core "foodies?" If you are open I would suggest orchestrating an evening in which you arrange several cars through a service, complete with champagne, and head straight to Blue Hill at Stone Barns. I do not know if you have been but it is truly transcending (Wow factor off the charts)- and I believe it should be on the required list for anyone who truly appreciates all aspects of food and dining. They book two months out so if you are interested call immediately- you will not be disappointed and it will be beautiful during the holidays.
NY Foodie on Business in San Fran
Thanks so much for all of your great insider recs and advice. I only have one night as we are getting up early the next morning to head to Napa- so I am going to try Pieprade-my father is Basque so it is perfect! Will have a beverage- or two - at Americano as well! Definitely have the others on my list for my next visit- cross your fingers I close the deal so I can come back! Please let me know if you are coming to NYC and I will be happy to share my favorites!
NY Foodie on Business in San Fran
I am coming into San Francisco on business and will be dining on a Monday evening with clients. The group is young and very wine/food savy. We are going to have a full day of meetings and are looking for someplace special- with sophisticated ambience (not stuffy), interesting cuisine, great service, American or continental cuisine. We are staying at the Hotel Vitale. Price is not a major issue. I tried Quince but they are booked and have heard mixed reviews about The Boulevard. Michael Mina seems too formal. I would love to try Bar Tartine but they are closed on Mondays. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!
Smith & Wollensky gift certificate - which restaurant???
If you are steak lovers you will enjoy Quality Meats- it opened about two years ago and it a much more interesting dining experience then the "older-school" and more traditonal S&W and Maloney's. However if you want a less steak-focussed experience definitiely go to Park Avenue Cafe- which is now Park Avenue Autumn. This restaruant has been re-branded - in the spirit of the Four Seasons they are literally changing the restaruant- menu, decor, etc. to refelect the season. Summer just ended and they just opened for Autumn last week.
Out of Towners Need Help for Sunday Dinner
I agree- Gotham is fabulous - for years it has maintained its reputation as one of the best restaurants in NY. We go there reguarly and the food and service never disappoints and the beautiful space makes for a lovely evening. Gotham is always on the top of my recommendation list. Go to Gotham!
Restaurants you love that are rarely mentioned on Chowhound
For a great neighborhood bistro- Bandol on 78th between 3rd and Lex is fabulous. Truly feels like you are walking into a friend's home. The food and wine is wonderful- great mussels, salads and risotto. The staff is absolutely charming and most of the diners are from the neighborhood which makes for a delightful atmostphere.
Le Creuset?
If Le Creuset is your worst addiction- celebrate- what a wonderful addiction to have. I have lugged many a piece home and smile everytime I can find a reason to bring them out! I can't wait for it to get cooler so I can start to slow simmer all day!
The Ladies take Manhattan...again- need suggestions!
Thanks everyone- we have had some truly great experiences - that is why I seem to have more of a challenge every year! Simsum, as a real foodie chic I love to cook, unfortunately my aunt's friends only come every other year so they like to go out. In terms of our favorites I left out Town- which though I feel it can be hit or miss was right on the night I took them. They also loved Babbo but this was years ago- I am now over it (very disappointing last visit) They also loved Danube - just a fabulous overall experience. In terms of the other cusines- Asian, fusion, etc, we went to Kittichai for our more casual Friday night last time they were here and they loved it- that would be the kind of space/vibe I am looking for Friday dinner. We also went to Asiate - which they enjoyed but was not a favorite of theirs in terms of cuisine. I though about PerSe but with us heading up to Blue Hill at Stone Barn for our big night that might be a little over the top- we need to save some money for shopping! Idia, DBurke and Donatella is a good rec- I have been several times but the last time I went the service was horrible!- have you been recently? Jinet, I have only done brunch at Balthazar - do you think this would be a fun spot for dinner on Friday? Has anyone been to Fleur de Sel- a chef recommended this to me and I walked by the other day but I can't get a sense of the ambience? Willie, thanks for the hot tip- I will definitely check it out- I love to get in when a place is new. Also, what about A Voce- I have heard mixed reviews. Any other tips on new spots that any of you have tried would be appreciated- I don't mind being a guinea pig- but don't want to risk taking the ladies to a place that doesn't have some "hound" endorsements. Thanks again- you are all fabulous!
Dylan Prime or Craftsteak?
Yes please do not go to SW- the grill is nice. I am a fan of CraftSteak - especially the bar- nice atmosphere, good 'hood. I like to have a drink at DelPosto and then head to CraftSteak- great wine, great menu- it seems to really be coming together after a rough start.
