Banc Café – 431 3rd Ave @30th St.
This self-proclaimed “Manhattan bar and restaurant lounge inspired by images of an old Parisian establishment,” looks more like its Irish pub neighbors in disguise than a stylish, European dream. True to the hood (frat boy row), the inside was bustling with more rowdy bar-goers than diners. Don’t be deceived; this bar/restaurant is no typical watering hole and this food is not the usual greasy fare. Though the menu lacked a clear identity and was a tad aspiration (a raw bar, stuffed cornish hen and specialty martinis conflict with the idea of shepherds pie and daily 4pm-8pm happy hour specials), the food and service were beyond expectations—fit for grazing and gorging alike. The mixed seasoned greens ($6) were a generous serving of large, leafy vegetables—more than just a handful of microgreens—and the trio of dumplings (pork, veggie, chicken $9) were not the frozen doughballs from the grocery store, but uniquely flavored mini meals. Banc is overpriced for the neighborhood, but still a wise choice to invest in.
http://www.banccafe.com/
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2 comments:
interesting report. Suggest you try Les Halles at park ave. http://www.leshalles.net/ny_park.php :)
Bon Appetit!!
Thanks for the recommendation, food sleuth! I'm a big fan of Anthony Bourdain (ever see his show on the travel channel?), even though he's no longer behind the burners these days. I am curious to try Les Halles, but am veering towards more affordable food these days; my lack of a budgeting when eating out is what gets me in trouble :)
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