After being turned away from two restaurants on last Saturday’s balmy date night (yes, we were sans reservations yet again – it’s more fun that way, isn’t it?), David and I literally stumbled on Left Bank. A fledgling on New York City’s dining scene,the cozy, dim-lit restaurant was buzzing by 8 p.m. but not as bustling as its West Village neighbors. We were apprehensively seated right away and by the end of the meal, as pleasantly surprised as we were satisfied.
Owned by restaurateur-duo Chef Laurence Edelman and Michelin Gaulin (the pair behind Chelsea’s The Red Cat), Left Bank serves up European-inspired dishes in a tavern-like atmosphere using the freshest Farmer’s Market picks.
Unassuming from the outside, the dark wood, dim lighting and eclectic decor make this place quirky yet inviting to those who venture inside. And once the meal is over, you may not want to leave.
What I Ate: Warm Mackerel Salad with Orzo, Grapefruit and Fennel, Sauteed Tuscan Kale with Preserved Lemon (Hint: I often order off the appetizer menu and the sides to get portion sizes that are more reasonable, just ask them to bring it with the entrees)
What He Ate: Paccheri with slow-cooked pork and beef ragu i.e. pasta
When We Dined: Dinner, Saturday
Also On the Healthier Side: Stick to the salads and the sides (kale, roasted winter squash, heirloom beans) on the brunch and dinner menus. Although everything is farm fresh, the entrees seem slightly heavy.
Be In the Know: Plan ahead or go on the early side because things start to get busy around 9 p.m. onward. Dinner is served daily and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Tapas and drinks are served all day on weekends. Sunday Funday, anyone?
Address:
117 Perry Street.
NY, NY 10014.
Tel: 212 727 1170.
Have any healthy dining tips? Got a great idea for a Healthy Hot Spot? Share the love below in the comments!
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