A walk down the handful of stairs leading into the basement bar and lounge space called The Honeywell is a passage back in time, one into a 1970’s inspired West Harlem atmosphere replete with dated lighting, tacky ambiance and all of the charm and accoutrements that would make this now distinct sort of place so very memorable in 2018.  Much in the same fashion that Williamsburg’s Rockarolla has made the art of the old-fashioned New York City dive bar such a fun destination, The Honeywell is equally as pleasurable, despite being (gulp!) more refined.  Of course, the requisite décor is not without its standouts- particularly a small but eye-catching Billy Dee Williams Colt 45 advertisement stationed beside the flashing static emanating from a reception-less television, undoubtedly powered on for the sole purpose of conversation’s sake.

Seemingly plucked straight out of a scene from a Richard Roundtree film (see: Shaft), the dimly lit and sleek bar/lounge space is an excellent one.  Outfitted with a brown leather and gold-colored interior along with some plush green leather chairs, the long spacious bar and high top tables are completely filled on the night we arrive, with guests served by a talented bar staff that showcases the necessity of a chemistry background in their mixology.  Donning ample hats and facial hair, the hipster vibe stops there – as the friendly servers whip together a truly complete cocktail program using every conceivable element from liquid nitrogen to a literal blowtorch in concocting drinks that mesh fresh, tasty ingredients and some performance pizzazz.  Blaring in the background – you guessed it – everything from the era that you might expect to hear in a bar such as this one.  David Bowie (‘Life on Mars’), ELO (‘Evil Woman’) and Hall and Oates (‘She’s Gone’) were of particular note while we slurped down one delicious cocktail after the next.

Candidly, one could be blindfolded and point to anything listed on the extensive cocktail menu of ‘Signature’ drinks and find something to be utterly satisfying.  Priced from $13-$16, we swooned over “The Bush” ($16) a lip-smacking bevy of gin, egg whites, raspberries and lemon and the tequila-led “Vivi Con Fuego” ($14) replete with mezcal, sage, cucumber and a hint of rosemary syrup – that is served, quite literally, on fire.  Even the “Strong Ice Cream Float” ($18) where ‘strong’ is an understatement– a massive serving of homemade vanilla ice cream paired with Buffalo Trace Whiskey, Bailey’s, Curacao and Coca-Cola- though huge, packed a wallop of flavor in its overall decadence.

Getting a bit wobbly-eyed from such deliciousness, some of the snack-related menu fare became essential.   Though you might not find any traditional main course dishes at The Honeywell, the litany of ‘Bites’ and ‘Balls on Balls on Balls’ more than aligns with the place’s vibe.   The “Chicken Apple Sliders” ($12) for instance, topped with a rich layer of gruyere cheese, tart granny smith apple slices and a touch of creamy adobo aioli, were particularly satiating.  Similarly savory, the “Thyme Baked Wings” ($9) dished with a side of chipotle ranch were juicy, meaty, and delightfully sauce-covered, pairing perfectly with the starchy side of baked “Polenta Fries” ($9).  In a bit of a surprise, the “Shrimp Cocktail Ceviche” ($14) may have been the evening’s finest dish.  Pairing tequila and cilantro and avocado and cucumber and onion and clamato sauce together made for a mouthwatering base for the bulbous hunks of shrimp laid out before us.  But after two or three of these potent drinks, the festive atmosphere, fun team of mixologists and an energetic playlist will manage to make even the harshest critic a believer that in retrospect, the 70’s weren’t so bad.  And neither is the worthwhile trek up to West Harlem for a place as unique as this one.

Insider Tip: Take advantage of the season now by ordering up an outstanding “Hot Toddy” while it’s still featured on the menu.  Better yet, the monthly Drag Brunch amplifies the fun to unparalleled heights – with the next one slated for this coming Saturday.  Information is available here.

Admittedly, we had walked by the Murray Hill restaurant that boasts ‘Indian Culinary Bliss’ many times before. The 3D neon red lettering raised above a gray stone backdrop reading ‘Nirvana’ seemed to open up to a casual Lexington Avenue bar that appeared to also serve some Indian-inspired fare. But as it’s often said, looks can be deceiving – and a first time visit would unveil a restaurant that has quite a bit to offer in a neighborhood often derided for its lack of quality dining options.

With our reservation in hand, we were transported from the dimly lit first floor bar and lounge to a nicely decorated upstairs dining area, where flower-embroidered chairs and exposed brick walls were both inviting and eye-catching. Moderate music played in the background as we surveyed our surroundings, outfitted with decorative Indian borders and dark brown hard wood floors, setting a particularly cozy layout for the smorgasbord of tasty eats to follow. Although the vibe here is decisively mellow, the flavors and ingredients used in dish after dish are anything but – a testament to the authenticity of the restaurant.

Boasting a reasonably priced lunch buffet that attracts a slew of guests, Nirvana is actually quite popular during mid-week lunch hours. Our first visit however would take place on a weeknight, where the dining room would be littered with couples and families toasting to the holiday season. Unsurprisingly, the menu at Nirvana is quite vast though not quite overwhelming. For relative novices that prefer to dine in open-minded fashion, it is best to lean on your friendly server for suggestions despite the fact that many of dishes are all traditional – and truthfully, all delicious.

Succulent “Saag Paneer” –fresh spinach and cheese cubes ($15), decadent “Aloo Gobi Mutter” – cauliflower in a fresh ginger spice ($15) and even the mouthwatering “Garlic Naan” – toasted and flavored Indian-style pita bread ($6) proved to be wonderful tableside accompaniments for the main course offerings that quite literally filled us to the brim. Six of the restaurant’s roasted “Lamb Chops” ($30) packed particular flavor, marinated in the Chef’s special blend of spices. Paired with some hearty roasted potatoes and a smattering of greens, the juicy and tender meat pulled easily off the bone, highlighted by an array of marbled gristle that left our salted lips smacking.

To counteract some of the spice we encountered in the richly sweet “Chicken Vindaloo” (a steal at $14), we doused our plates with some of the aforementioned naan and plucked spoonful after spoonful of tasty rice from the coconut-like hotpot that house the “Shrimp Biryani” ($21). The immensely tasty dish was served piping hot, with decadently sauced bulbous shrimp tails jutting out from atop the container, lacquered in a creamy yellow-tinted coating. The combination of spices and herbs covering the rice and shrimp was otherworldly, with each starch-filled spoonful working to sufficiently satiate our formerly big appetites.

From the interior décor to the wildly flavorful cuisine, Nirvana of Murray Hill left upon us an indelible first impression. The outstanding service would serve to punctuate an otherwise terrific dining experience that won’t force you to take out a home equity line of credit to afford. Centrally located near Grand Central Station and equipped with a sea of dishes to satisfy even the choosiest of diners, Nirvana proves that once can reach a transcendent state of contentedness, even when dining out for traditional Indian fare.

  

While Murray Hill as a whole has seen a bit of a restaurant renaissance in recent years- with chefs like Morimoto, Bloomfield, Talde and Smillie all piloting successful outposts in the neighborhood- there had previously been a dearth of noteworthy eateries in an area known more for locales featuring 1980’s music, fifty flat screen televisions or the places with the name ‘Mercury’ in its title.  That began to change in 2014 when a contemporary American dining establishment propped up its flag on a busy corner of Third Avenue, an area that had been largely earmarked by the college rank and file ducking in and out of sports bars.  It was there on 37^th Street where Hendriks opened up shop, featuring a modern and industrial space that brought a rejuvenated feel to a block of storefronts begging for a contemporary makeover.  Earmarked by craft cocktails and a strong mixology program, the space had always been an ideal one for the Happy Hour crowd, and as we learned after subsequent visits, had also offered up a favorable weekend brunch menu, flexible enough for large groups or for visiting parents from out of town.

During our most recent visit however, the jam-packed and dimly lit space offered spillover folks a new experience, tucked just around the outdoor corner into Hendriks’ brand new Atrium, equipped with a fully stocked bar of its own and additional seating to accommodate greater guest count in a chic, private-like setting.  Better yet, the comfortable setup would also serve the classic Hendriks’ dinner menu, replete with offerings from the “Smoked Pork Belly Risotto” ($21) to the savory “Black Angus Burger” ($17), both of which we’ve sampled in previous visits.

The just opened space is still seemingly a work in progress but certainly showcases a precursor of things to come.  String lights lay just above the restaurant’s cozy cocktail cove where white exposed brick plays as a welcoming sight during the winter months- the lodge like feel here makes delicious drinks like the “Hendricks Old Fashioned ($12) and the Malbec and gin meshed “True Blood ($11) particularly enjoyable.  Just a few steps away from the bustling bartender’s hustle sits a relatively nondescript but utterly comfortable dining room- spacious enough for large work parties (like on this night) but also pleasantly quiet to allow dinner conversation to shine.

Although the food at Hendriks might not be transcendent, it is often quite good.  And given the overall options in this part of town, there might not be a finer dining option.  The “Maine Crab Cake” ($13) and “Chickpea Fritters” ($9) are both generously portioned, rich in taste and outfitted with delicious seasonings.   Hunks of lobster meat sit atop shells of nicely cooked ravioli (“Lobster & Ravioli” ($30)) rather than stuffed inside each envelope – but the dish works overall because of that sort of distinctiveness.  It is a serving that delivers far better in practice than it might be interpreted on paper, doused in a buttery sage sauce and surrounded by a smattering of seasonal vegetables.

While other items like “Beef Short Rib Au Jus” ($28) and the “Roasted Double Cut Pork Chop” ($29) might warrant the menu attention of your eyeballs, seafood-focused fare was the showstealer during our most recent trip.  From the “Clams Linguine” ($23) to the “Lobster Risotto” ($32) to the “Seared Branzino” ($29), an evening special that showcased masterful technique – it was clear that despite its attention by locals as a meat-lovers haven, Hendriks also has a fairly refined side to its cooking.  The “Rotisserie Free Range Chicken” ($19) was perhaps our favorite dish of the evening – served alongside baby carrots, whipped potatoes and Brussels sprouts the way any piping hot, home-cooked meal should.  And just writing about it in retrospect as temperatures begin to dip has us longing for a return visit to pour some red wine, grab a seat at The Atrium bar and do it all over again.

Multiple pillars stand perched outside of the Murray Street location of Benares Indian Restaurant, which when unobstructed by typically camouflaging New York City scaffolding, reveals a particularly sleek and modern ambiance just within the building’s dual doors. Outfitted with shiny brown floorboards and yellow banquettes, Benares is an inviting atmosphere that feels like a distinctive downtown haunt to dig into some savory Indian-inspired fare. With its unique interior layout and inventive contemporary menu, fans of this style of cuisine would be hard pressed to find a dining experience that delivers this much overall value – in a Tribeca neighborhood that is normally bereft of such a concept.

It is an early weeknight evening when we arrive at Benares. The small bar area is already buzzing as a ‘change of pace’ to the atypical area Happy Hours. Many of the tables are already filled, even at an early hour, filling us with anticipation as we situate ourselves to experience each course. Despite being utterly reasonable- there isn’t a dish that exceeds $26- the menu leans on the cuisine of Utter Pradesh, the Western state where the city of Benares is located. What that means for the New Yorker is a smattering of fresh seafood, meats and vegetables doused in delicious tomato sauce, using ginger, cumin and garlic among other spices to really showcase the authenticity of the region.

If the fiery “Khasta Gobhi” ($8) wasn’t the most tasty cauliflower we’ve ever tasted, it’s difficult to recall a finer version. Battered to a crisp with garlic and some peppers and served in a spicy red sauce, the dish resembled a similar mouthwatering stickiness of a great General Tso’s dish- but the all veggie version was definitely noteworthy. We grabbed slices of warm “Garlic Naan” ($4) and lathered each doughy morsel with the sauces from the cooked cottage cheese “Paneer Makhani” ($15) and the cinnamon and black pepper doused “Konkani Shrimp” ($14), bulbous prawns that were both tender and juicy.

While Benares certainly serves up their share of Indian staples – your “Chicken Tikka,” ($13) savory and piping hot “Adraki Samosas” ($8) and a zesty “Chicken Vindaloo” ($17), each seems like they are crafted meticulously. The carefully prepared and fresh fare allowed each dish to seemingly be tastier than its predecessor. Even the simply prepared “Lamb Chops” ($25) were perfectly slow cooked in a clay oven, deliciously seasoned with each juicy bite pulling seamlessly from the warm foil covered bone handle.

In all likelihood, there is a strong chance that we won’t ever find ourselves in the Western state of Utter Pradesh. But that said, it’s this sort of eclectic style of cuisine that is entirely worth celebrating in downtown Manhattan. Supplemented by some truly outstanding service, the expansive menu allowed us to sample a great many dishes and happily, it was tough to take much umbrage with anything that touched our table. The comfortable setting and wonderful aromas make Benares a hidden gem amongst Tribeca’s overhyped and often overpriced list of restaurants. And in a pleasant surprise, it’s also a restaurant we find worth revisiting to sample even more of the place’s massive selection of offerings.

We’ll be the first to admit it: we don’t spend a great deal of time in Bed-Stuy.  That’s not a judgment call; it’s that the travels of our daily lives don’t often draw us out toward the Brooklyn neighborhood.  On a recent sunny Saturday however, the sounds of savory brunch sang out to us, whispering ‘hey, give this a shot.’  And with our ears ringing, we boarded the C train headed toward Classon Avenue for a mouthwatering breakfast experience well worth the jaunt from Manhattan.

Alice’s Arbor is an adorably charming little bistro nestled quietly onto a relatively quiet neighborhood street, across from welcoming Crispus Attucks Playground.  Outfitted with a rustic interior, the energy-laden restaurant feels as if transplanted from a small country town yet is seamlessly transitioned onto a bustling Brooklyn street.  Decoratively, the place’s natural lighting illuminates the barn wood covered walls, exposed brick and inventive light fixtures and wooden tables placed around the dining room.  The entire setup feels completely comfortable as the easy-going staff seems equally at ease, despite hustling around to serve the crowded slew of table-sitters.

In between the dedicated service however, is a meal that manages to take the notion of an ordinary brunch and keep it inspired.  With much of the fare sourced from nearby farms, the ‘farm-to-table’ concept which has been done to death in New York, just feels fresh here.  Armed with your choice of a horseradish-fueled ‘Bloody Mary’ or a refreshingly crisp ‘Mimosa,’ the $19 ‘Prix Fix’ feels like a downright steal for some of the selections offered before lunchtime.    Take ‘The Jessie’ ($11), a simple croissant layered with egg, avocado, arugula and tomato.  But topped with a Cabot white cheddar and the combination works far greater than the sum of its parts might imply.  ‘The Cubano’ ($12) is equally as excellent, meshing warm roasted pork, ham and gruyere with mustard and tangy pickles atop a flauta.

Even a traditional ‘Eggs Bendict’ ($11) is enhanced when served ‘Carolina’ style- the ‘Carolina Benedict’ ($11) tops scrumptious buttermilk biscuits with the traditionally poached eggs – and some rich pulled pork with barbeque sauce to boot.  And the piping hot home fries are well seasoned and just as distinctive.  The creamy lemony hollandaise sauce atop a serving of fresh ‘Crab Hash’ ($11) and greens also manages to be a big winner, washed down with some of the Arbor’s tasty house brewed coffee blend.  By the time the decadent ‘Apple Strudel’ is served tableside, drenched with a sweet syrupy glaze and topped with fluffy whipped cream – we had admittedly had enough, in a good way.

The service, unexpectedly – was spectacular.  Barely 45 seconds passed before another friendly outstretched arm was filling up our coffee mug, grabbing our plate or asking if we needed any additional condiments.   The food, unexpectedly, despite being reasonable, was equally as satisfying.  Who knew that such quality was available at such an infrequently visited part of Manhattan’s sister borough.  The experience overall though was a commendable one- so much so in fact that Alice’s Arbor moves to the top of the list for places we can bring folks off-the-beaten path, looking for a high-quality brunch from start to finish.

Rundown of the Meal

Plates
Crab Hash ($11)*

Carolina Benedict ($11)*

Dessert
Apple Strudel*

* Meal Highlight

Since Hurricane Sandy ravaged the shorelines of the East Coast, New York City has experienced a serious dearth of viable waterfront bar options down in the Financial District – this, despite the fact that the South Street Seaport is seemingly a goldmine as far as attractions for out of towners to frequent.  Fortunately the picturesque views of Brooklyn across the water no longer need to be put on hold with the open air Industry Kitchen now planting its flag.  Hidden underneath the bustle of the FDR Drive, the bar/restaurant combo provides some outstanding sunset views of the pristine waterfront, just far enough removed from the nearby buzz of ferry traffic and the footsteps of tourists.  The place is an absolutely ideal happy hour destination for downtowners, where the festive music, vibrant atmosphere and outdoor charm combine to deliver a distinctive experience for a smattering of after-work types.

As the East River water splashes against the shoreline and a litany of joggers’ sneakers smack the nearby pavement path, our outdoor table is decorated by the sights and sounds of springtime weather.  The smell of wood-fired pizzas and the sound of Beyonce tracks sprinkle in the background while our 6pm arrival is seemingly a bit late for the groups of Wall Streeters already imbibing in the adjacent bar space.  Above the typically wooden tables outside sits a line of umbrellas to shield guests from the sunshine, a situation we quickly rectify by having them lowered down so that our sunglasses can effectively be raised.  The breeze of early spring however allows for some fiery heat lamps to be utilized on this night, as the denim clad waitstaff casually hustles between tables without appearing to be overwhelmed.

At Industry Kitchen the menu isn’t too expansive and as such, the restaurant never tries to pretend it’s something that it is not.  Shakers of salt and red pepper flakes sit on each table like you might find at a local neighborhood pizzeria, though the place serves far more elevated fare than that would otherwise imply. Items like the garlicky “Pot of Mussels” ($17) and the “Blistered Shishito Peppers” ($9) stand out to earmark as such.  But despite the promise of ‘wood-fired’ fare, it was the rest of the menu that left our party most satisfied.

First, the “Chargrilled Octopus” ($13) was perhaps our favorite dish of the entire evening.  Replete with slices of cured chorizo and garlic (and decorated by some simplicities like olive oil and oregano), the tender hunks of each tentacle were deliciously charred and nicely prepared.   The “Grilled Cauliflower Steak” ($13) was similarly spectacular, with a mouthwatering caper lemon relish adorning the nicely cooked fresh white vegetable, enhanced by a memorable pecorino bread crumb crust which tied the entirety of the starter dish together.  And while the pizzas certainly provided some fodder for our group to dig into with piping hot sharable plates, the flavor profiles of the “Margherita” ($15) and the “Herbed Goat Cheese” ($18) varieties were satisfying but far from transcendent.  Granted, the “24K” pie with 24 karat gold leaves, platinum Ossetra caviar and some foie gras was a hard pass for us with its $2000 (!) price tag, it was likely the best of the some ten different styles being offered.

Although the pizzas are certainly serviceable for picking, we’d instead urge a look toward the wood fired oven dishes where the “Grilled Miso Marinated Salmon” ($26) was a definitive standout.   Seaweed salad and potato curls joined the nicely seared filet, ensconced in a meshing of tomato, ginger, pineapple and jalapeno salsa; the combination of which all worked together in excellent fashion.  With each passing course, we thoroughly enjoyed the entirety of the experience, clinging together the glasses of the chilled pours of Sauvignon Blanc amid the outdoor New York City air as darkness began to envelope the Brooklyn skyline.  Though eventually it was too dark to photograph, the views from our table at Industry Kitchen were sufficient enough to warrant a return visit before word gets out about the place’s almost secret location.

Rundown of the Meal

Starters
Blistered Shishito Pepper ($9)

Chargrilled Octopus & Chorizo ($13)*

Grilled Cauliflower Steak ($13)*

Wood Fired Oven
Grilled Miso Marinated Salmon ($25)*

Wood Fired Pizza
Margherita ($15)

Herbed Goat Cheese ($18) – goat cheese, arugula, wild mushroom, truffle oil

* Meal Highlight

It is a rainy weekday evening as our soaked umbrella closes up in front of Machiavelli, a sprawling authentic Italian trattoria which graces the Upper West Side. Though the relentless droplets of rain pound down upon the restaurant’s extended white awning, it’s easy to imagine how pleasant an outdoor brunch here might be, amid the bustling of food traffic in one of Manhattan’s most comfortable neighborhoods. Until then though, we are forced to pretend that the weather is more atypical of spring as we comfortably shuffle our way inside the space, which feels like a meticulously designed cathedral, and sit at our corner table, now safe from the whipping winds and rain outside.

Once seated, it’s a challenge not to marvel at the inside of Machiavelli. Massive murals take center stage on each of the restaurant’s exposed walls, so grandiose in fact that you may even strain your neck while attempting to take in the entirety of their intricate designs. The spacious feel somehow manages to lend itself to be old-fashioned yet charming, a quaint neighborhood place serviced by some of the friendliest Italian waiters you’d ever care to meet. The small marble bar hosts less than a handful of seats, but again here lies another ornate wall, decorated like something you might find while strolling through Florence’s Uffizi Gallery- or at least it feels that way, with instrumental Italian music playing in the backdrop.

While Italian restaurants seemingly sit on every Manhattan block, Machiavelli itself feels utterly distinctive – perhaps for what it’s not. Forget the shiny wooden tables and modern rustic seating – the comfortable cloth backed chairs are more akin to enjoying a home cooked meal at a family member’s house than a night out uptown. In lieu of a throwback band, a grand piano graces the dining room where some familiar staples are expertly performed by the talented hands of a suited up pianist, an appropriate touch given the interior’s surroundings. Fittingly, the restaurant’s elaborate menu meshes the same sort of old-world Italian fare with such a traditionally Italian atmosphere.

Where to begin though, with a sizable menu offering everything from fresh “Bruschetta” ($9.95) and “Antipasto Misto” ($17.95) to a selection of Pizzas and artisanal Italian pastas, rolled and made by hand. A couple of complex pours of Chianti Classico serve to set the stage for the outstanding “Sformato di spianci” ($12.95), best described as a creamy cloud of Spinach flan, doused in white truffle shavings and some fonduta cheese. Though the dish sounds heavy, it is topped with some sautéed spinach and a ripe cherry tomato and eats incredibly soft with a flavor profile that far exceeded our loftiest expectations. Similarly necessary on your table, the “Gamberetti all ‘uccelletto’” ($16.95), a mouthwatering bowl of bulbous, sauce covered shrimp, littered by large white beans, garlic, sage and a smattering of white wine and fresh tomatoes.

Though we were forced to eschew a pizza dish, the long thick strands of fresh-herb “Pappardelle alle Erbe con Funghi” ($18.95) was another can’t miss dish. Adorned by juicy hunks of mixed wild mushrooms, the added cream and sharp shaves of parmesan cheese added a new textural component to the already flavorful combination as our table fought off each other’s forkful for final dibs on the dish’s remains. Fortunately, Machiavelli also manages to over-deliver even in non-traditional fare, where oven-roasted Colorado lamb chops or “Costoella d’Agnello alle Hrbe fresche” ($38.95) doused in a thick, rich ‘gravy’ are perfectly prepared- seared and seasoned just right- and cooked to an ideal tender red center, deliciously rare. Non-meatlovers will be just as happy with an expertly prepared seafood dish- where the house special “Seared Halibut” ($29.95) on this night was candidly a bit pricey, but also candidly, especially tasty, served with some fresh fennel in an anisette sauce- neither of which overpowered the succulent filet of fish.

By the time our ‘Salted Caramel’ gelato arrived tableside, our appetites had sufficiently been appeased. Then again, it was ‘Salted Caramel’ gelato after all – so we unbuckled our belts, grabbed a spoon and laid the decadent dessert to waste, triumphantly standing tall above all of the now decimated plates beneath us. Perhaps we are exaggerating a bit about the sheer volume of food that we consumed- maybe being a bit deceitful or (ready for the pun) Machiavellian here? But finding enough positive adjectives to describe our dining experience at Machiavelli proved to be an even bigger challenge than finishing off our meal, an excellent one at that, on a rainy Upper West Side evening that we won’t soon forget.

Rundown of the Meal

Antipasti
Sformato di spinaci ($12.95)* – fresh ricotta and spinach flan topped white truffle scented fonduta cheese

Gamberetti all ‘uccelletto’ ($16.95)* – sauteed shrimp with cannellini beans, sage, touch of tomato and white wine

Carpaccio di manzo ($19.95) – thin slice of seared rare beef, truffle oil

Pasta Artigianale
Pappardelle alle erbe con funghi ($18.95)* – fresh herb pappardelle with mixed wild mushrooms, cream and parmesan

Carne
Costoletta d’Agnello alle erbe fresche ($38.95)* – Oven roasted Colorado lamb chops, fresh herbs

Secondi
Ippoglosso con finocchio e salsa di anice ($29.95)  - sauteed halibut with fresh fennel in anisette sauce

* Meal Highlight

Though the story from pop-up shop to brick-and-mortar restaurant today seems almost commonplace, conceptually, the rise was almost nonexistent just a few short years ago.  Among the pioneers in this space on a local level, Mexicue began its quick ascent as a food truck in Brooklyn in 2010- an impetus of sorts for the gain in acceptance that trucks would soon have as a medium to deliver quality food quickly to discerning and in-the-know consumers.  The truck’s success coupled with a clientele now embracing terms like ‘locally sourced’ and ‘hormone-free’ alongisde a healthy and undying love for Mexican fare, spawned Mexicue as a viable New York City brand.  And a recent visit to their Flatiron location revealed that despite some initial expansion stumbles, Mexicue feels like they are just hitting their sweet spot delivering delicious flavors and a festive feel inside of a spacious neighborhood locale.

Inside, the Fifth Avenue space could double as a craft beer bar or even a more intimate sports bar.  Adorned with a rustic feel, the slightly dim lighting but energetic atmosphere is warm and inviting.  Not to mention the fact that the restaurant has an oversized list of Tequilas and Bourbons- one that would make most other cocktail bars flush with embarrassment.  The tables are wooden, comfortable and nicely spread out around the dining area so that there’s no fear of smashing arms with a fellow patron- there’s plenty of room here to stretch out your limbs, always a good thing when potentially overindulging and letting out one’s pants.  The farm-like vibe here is important because while Mexican is an integral piece to the restaurant’s theme- barbeque is also a fundamental part to the brand’s joint inspiration.

Though the menu boasts the typically overstuffed burritos and even a handful of flavorful enchiladas, it’s items like the “Burnt Ends Chili” bowl ($15) that immediately strike our fancy.  Richly sweet and savory hunks of crispy marbled meat is ensconced in thick ‘cue sauce, atop a smattering of fresh kale, perfectly prepared brown rice and some slow-simmered black beans.  The salty and crunchy layer of thin tortilla strips proves to be a delicious textural contrast to the piping hot dish, where the array of colors on the plate are matched by the simple yet complex amalgamation of flavors.  Moreover, though we went wild for a trio of generously portioned corn tortilla tacos (the “Blackened Fish” ($4.75) with watermelon radish and slaw and the salsa verde coated “Brisket” ($5.50) were our favorites), the sliders were equally as eye-opening.

Outrageously hearty, the $5 “Braised Lamb” was decidedly best-in-show, given the tender and seasoned slices were outfitted with fresh mint and a dollop of tangy chili tomato sauce.  Just a touch of crema decadently spruced up the sizable sandwich, which we ranked the tiniest notch above the “Avocado Chicken” ($4.75) style.  No slouch in its own right, the slaw covered shreds of chicken were complemented by a smoky and creamy chipotle sauce and some house-pickled peppers.  Both options were served within the confines of a warm and fluffy bun that proved to be the ideal measurement for a bread-to-meat ratio.  We would of course be remiss to not mention the refreshing ‘Seasonal’ “Jungle Juice” ($10), equipped with a fall-friendly apple pear flavor which paired perfectly with some excellent “Charred Jalapeno Guacamole” ($11.75), a quickly lapped up starter dish accompanied by some satisfying and salty tortilla chips.

There’s no need to name names.  We can all agree that finding a fast-casual spot that serves up run of the mill tacos and burritos is hardly a difficult exercise in New York City, where traditional Asian cuisine and Mexican food is routinely being served inside of the same take out window.  But Mexicue is seemingly a far different animal with a more diverse and eclectic array of affordable offerings, an energetic bar scene and an atmosphere that begs you to stick around awhile to really enjoy the preparation and culinary thought being put into each dish.  And that beats the hell out of waking up on your couch, covered in tortilla chip crumbs, wondering what it was that you just devoured without thinking.

Rundown of the Meal

House Cocktails
Apple-Pear Margarita ($11)
Apple-Pear Jungle Juice ($10)*

Dips to Share
Charred Jalapeno Guacamole ($11.75)

Salads
Kale & Brussels ($8.75)

Tacos
Blackened Fish ($4.75)*
Pulled Pork ($4.75)
Brisket ($5.50)*

Sliders
Braised Lamb ($5)*
Avocado Chicken ($4.75)*

Bowls
Burnt Ends Chili ($15)*

While an overabundance of menu items at a restaurant is often a good problem to have, the fact of the matter is that our stomachs have limited capacity. And as such, some of the more eye popping options at New York City outposts are forced to be eschewed to the dreaded – ‘we’ll try that next time’- which let’s be honest, never comes to fruition. Conceptually however, a restaurant like Burger & Lobster is refreshing because of it’s uniquely limited menu – you know exactly what your choices are before even stepping foot inside of the cavernous space. Heck, it’s even in the title. And while the first New York City outpost of the London brand has expanded their menu by way of different condiments and options, their core of three distinctive- and fairly priced- selections still remains as the place’s most prominent drawing card.

Since opening it’s original location with just three choices: a juicy burger, a fresh lobster or a lobster roll – all for just $20, served with fries and a salad- both the menu offerings and prices have expanded in kind. But this is New York City, where a $25 lobster roll or a $28 lobster doesn’t scare us – and fortunately in terms of both flavor and value- it shouldn’t scare you either.

Most surprising is Burger & Lobster’s sheer size. The place is absolutely spacious but is also brightly lit up and simply feels like a clean, comfortable setting- one that is absolutely ideal for large groups to gather together and chow down. The decor is a seemingly unnatural blend of contemporary New York meets an Americana fast casual style- but its atmosphere definitely works with red leather banquettes surrounding a mostly wood paneled space. Inventively, wooden lobster tanks segregate the sizable bar area from the dining room in non-obtrusive but still eye-catching manner. But enough about the tables and chairs- it’s the food that you’re trekking to the Flatiron District for- and it’s the food that will reward you in kind.

Notably, each of the portions are entirely generous given that a silver cylinder of salty French fries and a small garden salad accompanies each order. To wash down much of the hearty fare, a pour of “The Beer” ($9) was a particularly refreshing order. Created specifically for the New York City outpost by Brooklyn’s Sixpoint Brewery, the Pale Ale style was deliciously hoppy without being overwhelming, a definitive complement to a massive burger dubbed “The Original” ($20). On a night that left us so amped up for lobster, the burger itself was the evening’s nicest surprise. Perfectly cooked to a medium-rare temperature, the 10 ounce blend of well seasoned Pat LaFrieda beef meshed wonderfully with an outlay of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and crunchy pickles. Best of all, the entirety of its components stayed in tact throughout our meal- no gooey, soggy buns on this night- a definite plus for City burger-seekers.

Equally impressive in size was “The Original” ($28) lobster.  One and a half-pounds of freshly cracked Nova Scotia meat, plucked from the shell and tender to the taste.  There are two other size options depending upon one’s level of hunger, but the medium portion was more than filling enough- served either grilled or steamed.  Dipped in a small vat of drawn butter, the succulent lobster meat was rich and juicy- a decadent serving of delicious opulence as the liquified butter drizzled down our smiling chins.  Our only gripe here was temperature- we would have preferred a piping hot claw to the slightly warm style that was served tableside.  But fortunately, the flavor profile still managed to remain tasty.

The Japanese mayonnaise lathered lobster roll- also dubbed “The Original” ($25)- meanwhile, was the lightest in terms of size, but damn if it wasn’t exceptional.  Overflowing with hunks of claw meat, the creamy combination mixed with bright green chives and a buttery potato-brioche bun made for a particularly memorable take on the traditional northeast sandwich.  The knock on B&L’s “Lobster Roll” has been that it’s a bit bread heavy and while that criticism is not necessarily unfair, it hardly detracts from what is otherwise an intensely delectable dish.  Sure you can order “The Fiesta” served with chipotle mayo or “The 7 Samurai” equipped with a cucumber, sesame and ginger blend- but “The Original” served our group just fine.

The space is huge but is bright and inviting.  The menu is limited, but there is seemingly no wrong way to order.  The drink list is reasonably priced and there is plenty from which to choose.  Most importantly, the entire dining experience simply feels vibrant, energetic and fun.  That is of course, until you’ve left a sea of napkins on top of the remains of what was once a nice looking lobster roll or burger- for at the end of the meal, you’re almost certain to need a long walk home.

Rundown of the Meal

Signature Cocktails
Sweet Sweet Jalapeno ($12) – El Jimador Reposado Tequila, Honey Jalapeno Syrup

Beer
The Beer $9 – House Pale Ale from Sixpoint Brewery

Burgers
The Original ($20)*

Lobsters
The Original ($28) – 1.5lb lobster

Lobster Rolls
The Original ($25)* – tossed in Japanese mayo with chives

The Bistro of Beautiful Birds, as it is called, is an utterly appropriate distinction for those New Yorkers looking for that perfect place to celebrate Thanksgiving. Helmed by Michelin star-winning chef Antoine Westermann, cozy Flatiron restaurant Le Coq Rico is a modernized brasserie that is focused on serving some of the City’s finest poultry dishes. And so it shouldn’t be much of a surprise that the bistro’s first US outpost, which opened back in the spring, is perhaps the most well-equipped to handle the most grandiose of holiday orders ahead of Thursday’s festivities- prepared by the talented hands of an elite renowned Chef, once named one of the Top Five Chefs in France.

Though the restaurant is technically a transplant from Paris, the feel and ambiance inside are definitively New York. Floor to ceiling windows accompany the restaurant’s narrow exterior where the sleek bar in front gives way to an inventive dining counter in back, both of which sandwich a dimly lit dining area adorned with lightly painted rustic wood-paneled walls and exposed bricks that give a nod to its Manhattan locale. The aforementioned counter overlooks the open kitchen, where the experience of watching the collaborative efforts of the kitchen staff alone is worth the cost of the delicious meal to be served later. Somehow relaxed yet upscale, the entire space manages to be eye-catching- meticulously designed to maximize each of a guest’s five senses.

Although most folks don’t routinely pay up for poultry as they might for a dry-aged cut of LaFrieda beef, ‘The Whole Birds’ at Le Coq Rico are intended to serve parties of four, selling at right around $100 all-in. But the sticker shock of a perfectly prepared “Catskill Guinea Fowl” or “Plymouth Barred Rock” shouldn’t scare you- not when the soft and tender meat is this well-seasoned and delicious. But it’s the restaurant’s Thanksgiving menu, that really leaves our mouths watering. From the ‘Duck Foie Gras Terrine’ with cranberry chutney to the ‘Stuffed Heritage Turkey,’ replete with red cabbage and chestnut fricassee and a mouthwatering butternut and citrus puree- an $85 Thanksgiving feast here is an absolutely ideal way to experience Chef Westermann’s cooking for the very first time.

Better yet perhaps? Have some family over to your quaint little apartment and grab some of the restaurant’s special Thanksgiving fare to go. Chef Westermann’s deliciously prepared Frank Reese Heritage Turkey pays homage to the responsibly raised birds with a delectable roasted onion and chestnut stuffing fit to serve up parties between 6-8 in size. And at just $280, their Take-Away menu is a veritable steal given the volume of food that will sit out at your table. Whether you decide to dine in house or grab a package for the road, Le Coq Rico will make sure that your every Thanksgiving need is accommodated.

- Jane Vane Arsdale