“Can you recommend a good Village restaurant?”
When you get asked this question by a tourist or a new friend what pops into your head?
Probably it’s a restaurant you have been going to for years, or maybe it is a brand new one that you just found and the food is absolutely sensational.
As you know, nothing is so valuable when it comes to recommendations as word of mouth. This new column offers just that—your selection of your current favorite restaurant and why you selected it. Perhaps you can name a few of the outstanding dishes, or maybe the decor or service—or maybe it’s the whole experience.
We start with the recommendation of Caroline Benveniste, who has seen many new restaurants come and go, documenting both in her monthly In and Out column.
Contributors get a free one year subscription to WestView and I would not be surprised if the restaurant honored by your praise picks up the check next time you come in.
David Porat, Food Editor
Caroline Benveniste Recommends
Bistro Pierre Lapin
99 Bank Street (entrance on Greenwich Street between Bank and Bethune Streets)
I’ve had a pleasant dinner at Pierre Lapin, and also some drinks at the bar (with complementary gougeres), but my favorite meal there is brunch. Unlike some brunch places, it’s possible to make a reservation, and while the restaurant fills up it’s still fairly quiet and relaxed. The seating is comfortable, and the staff is lovely. The dishes are on the larger side and a good value. I particularly enjoyed the Croque Madame, a slice of brioche with ham, béchamel sauce and melted cheese accompanied by a serving of delicious fries. A fruit salad comes for the table and is a nice end to the meal.
