In no particular order...
1. Sauce
From the same owners as the ever-popular Frank, Lil' Frankie's and Supper, the newest addition to the family, Sauce, opened just a couple of months ago in the LES and I was lucky enough to have dined there recently. This casual (no reservations, cash only policies) Italian restaurant was bustling when I went on a Saturday night so my friend and I sat at the small bar and had a glass of amazing Barbra D'Alba while we waited for a table. I'm not usually a red wine drinker but this was light and smooth and we ended up bringing the rest of the bottle to our table. The menu was extensive with many salad, pasta and meat dishes. They actually have their own butcher on site which adds to the atmosphere. We squeezed in at a little table, sandwiched between a few other tables- the place was packed! And noisy! Not a good first date spot (there were alot of repeated sentances, leaning over the table and "what?" moments during our meal) but a place with great energy and livliness. We shared an amazing Kale salad with a mustardy dressing and delicious buttery croutons, followed by Tagliatelli Bolognese. Amazing! The portion looked small but it was filling and we noticed other tables had gigantic sharing style plates that looked fun. We skipped dessert because we were too full, but I will definately go back. Writing this is making me hungry....2. Saxon + Parole
I have reviewed this restaurant before but I still highly recommend it. Their options of seafood and meats were all eye catching and I loved that the flavors were all really clean and fresh. Whenever a guest is looking for a trendy but delicious restaurant in the area I send them to Saxon + Parole and they are always very happy to have gone. The way the rooms are set up, you can sit at a cool looking bar, have a more upscale experience with white table clothes, be in the middle of the fun in a booth or be tucked away in a romantic corner with candlelight. Something for everyone!3. The Wren
I mentioned The Wren in my last post but I think it's a great place to visit. Whether for a meal, a light snack or for drinks, the warm atmosphere of this Gastropub is inviting and cozy. I love the wood tables and walls and their lighting, as well as their mix of modern and old school tunes. The selling point for me, however, is the friendliness of the staff. Always smiling and welcoming (but not in an overbearing or false way) they make you feel right at home...which is probably why I have gone so many times....4. Buvette
This cute little French bistro is on one of those little West Village streets I rarely find myself on but always enjoy myself when I do. I came to meet my friend at Buvette a while ago for a late snack and was pleasantly surprised at the simplicities and complexities of the dishes. We sat at the bar and enjoyed some wine while taking in the quaint atmosphere reminiscint of the little cafes in Paris. The bartender was pleasant and we were surprised when after we ordered our food, he began preparing it. My friend ordered the steak tartare and it was "Awesome". I had the pate with little toasts and cornichons. Also very good and authentic Frenchie food. The bistro is a little small and unually packed without taking reservations. Worth the wait or go late night styles like I did. Although their breakfast looks really good too....
Everybody in NYC is obsessed with Torrisi Italian Specialties (alright, maybe a slight exaggeration) so when rumors started swirling that they were opening another restaurant next door excitement rang through the streets. Parm is a more casual version of the now prix-fixe only Torrisi, executing delicious fare such as their famous Turkey sandwich that tastes like heaven on a bun. Even the simplest items, like their Meatball or Chicken heros will change the way you look at sandwiches forever. Their sides are delectable as well, with brussel sprouts, poppers and cauliflower that will make even a vegetable sceptic a fan. And don't miss out on their homemade Ice Cream Cake. Maybe my favorite thing on the menu.The atmosphere is 50s diner style, only cooler with vintage-looking patterned wall paper and red bar stools. It is also easier to get into than Torrisi, there may be a wait for a seat but you don't have to wait in line for hours to guarantee a seat. They also do takeaway that you can call in ahead of time if you're in a rush. Either way, I suggest you sample their goods.
If you can only have one meal in NYC, Sauce, Saxon + Parole, Buvette, The Wren or Parm will beautifully illustrate the way cuisine is heading in New York. No longer, for the most part, do restaurants have to rely on overly elaborate design or stuffy service with ridiculous prices. Normal people can have a great time too!
