scene: Lowkey but looking good Gramcery locals, some suits, lots of families
sip: Vino Blanco while dining al fresco on a Summer night, Vino Rosso while tucked into a banquet in the Winter
savor: Funghi Misti, Baby Artichoke Salad, any of the pastas (Strozzapreti al Pesto, anything with truffles, Linguine with Baby Clams, Zucchini Flowers, Veal Milanese
sit: Outside if the weather permits, or else you don't have much of a choice of where you'll be squeezed into the dining room, but the side booths are great for groups of 4 or 5...
spend: $$
address: 102 East 22nd Street (right off of Park Avenue South)
scene: NOT Extra Fancy! Williamsburg locals and some recognizable NYC cool kids in the restaurant scene (the owners are from Employees Only & Macao Trading Company)
sip: Amazing sounding drink menu (esp the Baby, You're Driving cocktail), and tons of options for beer and wine by the glass.
sit: No reservations, so arrive early and be prepared to drink. Booths for two in the back were cozy, however the large bar in front had a great crowd when we left and would also be perfect to eat at
scene: Pseudo rustic Italian seaside in the Theater District with casual elegance; touristas and well-heeled NYC'ers who make the trek
sip: BBBBBBBBarola; BBBBBBarbaresco
savor: Baked clams; Pastas; Fresh Grilled Fish
sit: With anyone pre-theater; with Food Network aficionados who want to see what this Batali is all about; anyone who might have to drive back to NJ after dinner, it is close to the Lincoln Tunnel
scene: Slightly funky old/new vibe; skylight keeps the dining room light, and the big dark wood bar in the bar is impressive; the library will be cozy in the winter but is a little dark now
sip: A list of 30 custom cocktails is offered; when we asked for some guidance we were met with slight attitude, but the bartender eventually came around; well-rounded wine list full of surprises
savor: Trout; Snap pea salad; Winner Winner Chicken Dinner
sit: With at least one other person to share the chicken; with your parents, foodie friends from out of town, friends who live in the neighborhood
scene: long, bustling counter with front row seats for the action, and some tables as well; no bar area, very plain design, some rocking tunes playing; the narrow space helps with the bustling vibe that is missing from the decor
sip: Sake to me
savor: salmon on crispy rice; toro with caviar; sushi
sit: With a sushi afficionado, at the counter; with expense account people at a table
Pants at a Glance
