42East 20th Street – Gramercy/Flatiron
Classic American, Fine Dining, Notable Chef
http://www.gramercytavern.com

Gramercy tavern is a long-standing member of the Danny Meyer empire known as the Union Square Hospitality Group, which consists of Union Square Cafe, Blue Smoke, Maialino, The Modern, North End Grill and the famous Shake Shack.  Gramercy opened back in 1994 and has been credited with being one of the best restaurants in town since that time.  Tom Colicchio was one of the original founders and Chef Michael Anthony is the current Exec Chef and partner of Danny Meyer.  They were among the first to offer local produce and fresh seasonal ingredients which has come to be the expectation in 2012!  They carry one Michelin star and Chef Anthony is the current reigning James Beard Best Chef NYC, 2012 among other accolades.

Since we only started the blog a short time ago, it is necessary to revisit the classics every now and then to show a balance.  We get so caught up in what’s opening and happening , we forget the now institutions who started it all in NYC.  Gramercy Tavern has two distinct ‘vibes’ as I call them.  There is the ‘Tavern’ or bar area and the ‘Dining Room’ which is adorned with white tablecloths.

Tavern/Bar Area

Dining Room

We do have a preference for the more casual of the two, but neglected to make the distinction when making our reservation.  Since we’ve been in the Tavern a few times, it made sense to go with the more formal option and menu.  We made a rather late lunch reservation over the holidays while it was bustling in the Union Square area.

We made sure to work up an appetite before our multi-course lunch.  And we went all out while we were at it!  Everything was amazing in flavor as well as presentation.  These are some of the most gorgeous dishes we’ve eaten over our 12 day holiday dining extravaganza.  I think my favorite here was Steve’s Braised Flat Iron Steak.  My Pork Croquette was amazing and incredibly rich.

Warm Lobster Salad, Carrots & Chicory 18

Roasted Beet Salad, Radish, Treviso & Buttermilk Dressing 14

Pork Croquette, Cannellini Beans, Bacon & Kale

Braised and Roasted Flat Iron, Peppers, Black Garlic & Farro

We’ll surely go back again one day and reserve a seat in the bar area for dinner.  A review update will follow immediately thereafter!