Ken Addington's Guide to Eating Out in NYC
New York native, chef and restaurateur Ken Addington is a veteran of the culinary world. You may have tasted some of his finest creations at eateries such as Five Leaves in Greenpoint, Casino in Dimes Square, and our very own Soho Diner.
We recently caught up with Ken to get the lowdown on his favourite spots in the city right now—from where to find the perfect martini to the best French, Thai and Italian cooking in town.
Frenchette
What is it? A famed French bistro and James Beard Award winner that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Expect great cocktails and a full menu of French cuisine.
What Ken says: “A fantastic vibe and natural wine program, exceptional takes on classic French cuisine.”
241 W Broadway, New York; T. 212-334-3883
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Morgenstern’s
What is it? Designed to look like a 1950s ice cream parlor, it’s only fitting that Morgenstern’s should also offer hot classics like burgers and fries alongside with your milkshake.
What Ken says: “Finest ice cream in town.”
88 W Houston St, New York
Thai Diner
What is it? As its name implies, this perpetually packed 65-seat eatery in Nolita serves Thai classics in a kitschy diner-like space.
What Ken says: “Quirky spot with deliciously spicy fare.”
186 Mott St, New York; T. 646-559-4140
Via Carota
What is it? This West Village trattoria is the Italian restaurant every New Yorker wishes was on their doorstep. It’s an ideal blend of rustic and refined, with a menu for every type of craving.
What Ken says: “Instant classic when it opened and continues to impress with great cocktails and market ingredients.”
51 Grove St, New York; T. 212-255-1962
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Claud
What is it? A buzzy, wine-focused East Village restaurant inspired by the contemporary bistros and trattorias of Europe.
What Ken says: “Very fun casual, inventive spot is much more than a wine bar and their new seafood restaurant, Penny, just upstairs offers an outstanding raw bar experience.”
90 E 10th St Ground Floor, New York; T. 917-261-6791
Raoul’s
What is it? Raoul’s is a New York bistro for the books, and only getting better with time.
What Ken says: “Perfect martini and steak frites every time in this legendary Soho mainstay.”
180 Prince St, New York; T. 212-966-3518
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St Jardim
What is it? A sun-filled cafe by morning turned eclectic wine bar by night serving low intervention wines and seasonal dishes.
What Ken says: “Perfect West Village wine bar with fantastic bites.”
183 W 10th St, New York; T. 917-938-5829