By David Porat
Living in the neighborhood, I have found that many of the places up and down Seventh Avenue South have become fixtures, tourist destinations, or maybe places to avoid when looking for good food locally. They are also not known for value because of high rent due to their location in a high-traffic area. However, slightly further south, I have found some old fashioned delicious food—at the Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter. The service at times left something to be desired but the business is independent and offers good eats. It is also only three or so blocks south of the Christopher Street subway stop.
Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter is a branch of the original, deep in Alphabet City, East Village. It has about the simplest menu going and specializes in fried chicken. Chicken Little is $11 and includes three pieces of chicken (thigh, wing, and drumstick) and a side. The white meat is saved for the Fried Chicken Sandwich. Sides include: collard greens, mac and cheese, french fries, and coleslaw. In addition, there is catfish, and salad on the menu. The restaurant is very small on the inside but expands a great deal in good weather. (I did sit outside on a pleasant evening.) Everything I tasted was well prepared. I did think the fried chicken could have used a bit more seasoning but it was nicely crisp and freshly cooked. It did benefit from the house hot sauce and honey which was brought to the table when I was almost done with the chicken. In addition, I ordered a few sides (one of which never arrived) but the mac and cheese and collard greens were real food. I did have to ask for my homemade biscuit which is supposed to come with the plate. It was well prepared and I ate it with honey for dessert. Drinks are available but if you abstain, you can eat for less than $20!
Such restaurants make going out to dinner easy, with less expensive options. Yes, good-value food can be found in this neighborhood where generally prices can be high and quality may not always be consistent especially if you are not paying handsomely.
Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter
57 7th Avenue South • (646) 861-1743
