If New Yorkers are flocking to the southern tip of Manhattan on a cold and windy Saturday night, there has to be something worth going for: a can’t-miss sample sale, a celeb appearance or perhaps to check out Danny Meyer’s latest eatery, North End Grill.
On any given weeknight in my quiet and cozy TriBeCa neighborhood, most of the popular restaurants have a healthy after-work buzz. But on weekends you can usually count on less of a crowd. So when David and I battled the high winds last Saturday night and strolled through the doors of this fresh take on an American bar and grill sans reservations, we were surprised to find an hour wait. And wait we did.
Two hours and a few cocktails later, we were seated at the dining counter overlooking the open kitchen. Best view in the house.ย I actually preferred this to the dining room. Maybe it’s the cook in me, but I appreciate the art and science of preparing a meal and being able to see it all go down only enhanced the experience. We even caught a glimpse of Top Chef Floyd Cardoz (formerly of Tabla) in action.
The focus at North End Grill is on simple, seasonal ingredients with flare served up in a casual environment amidst modern decor. The restaurant features an impressive scotch and wine bar conducive to socializing with friends or even other patrons – the entire place has that special, neighborhood feel.
Although the service wasn’t quite up to par yet, the staff was professional and accommodating, eager to make up for any mistakes along the way.
What We Ate: We shared the spicy greens with radish and lime vinaigrette, the whole Turbot, the hashed Brussels sprouts and lentils and grilled pineapple with cashew butter for dessert. (Hint: To counteract portion sizes or when there are several dishes I want to try, I like to share an entree and a couple of appetizers or sides).
When We Dined: Dinner, Saturday night
Also on the Healthier Side: Any of the salads, oysters, grilled shrimp with fennel and radish, Hamachiย sashimi with sesame-seaweed salad, griddled ginger spinach, braised Winter greens and Norwegian steel head salmon with maple-roasted kabocha squash (all on the lunch or dinner menus)
Be In the Know: Make a reservation or else be prepared to wait. And wait. And wait. Food is served at the scotch and wine bar but the menu is limited to smaller plates.
Address:
104 North End Avenue.
New York, NY 10282.
Tel: 646 747 1600.
Have you dined at North End Grill yet?
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