Craftbar

08/18/08

Mediocrity shouldn't be mistaken for good

by nybapfood

This place is just alright--if even that. The only entree that was good out of the three people I was with was the meaty pasta, but even that was ordinary. Disappointed with how the chicken was prepared: well-done. Not a lot of charm to this restaurant during the day, in fact, eerily empty when I went. Service was rude, also obnoxious. He ignored requests and it took a long time to receive the essential bread and water we asked for 3 times. Not even close to very casual Craft 'wichcraft.

• Pros: the flatiron district location
• Cons: service, food, and overall experience

07/14/08

BIG Let down...

by Godzuki24

I admit it, I LOVE Top Chef. So, I had to try this place. Maybe my expectations were too high. Maybe, what everyone else is saying here is true. I'll just stick to my guns and lay it out for you...

The meatballs were no better than your Italian friends grandmother could/would make. I was sorely disappointed. The sausage in sage leaves were interesting, but not great. The donuts were a bit dense, but the highlight of the meal (I was in for Brunch). Polenta fries were soggy and thus didn't hold their shape. The brunch items were lacking and the brioche was good, but thats not saying a lot. The Chatham Cod was nicely prepared, but was overpowered by the accompanying vege/stock. Some of the other dishes at my table were underseasoned. The meal just seemed to lack balance. Considering TC's insistence on simplicity and good ingredients, his menu comes across as pretentious. There were only a few "simple" dishes on the menu and those were almost great. Dessert was probably the best course of the day. Brown Sugar cake with peach preserves and vanilla/honey ice cream was out of this world. Sundae with coffee crunch was delectable and the chocolate cake with mint chip ice cream was good too.

Drinks were spectacular, but that has more to do with a good barkeep than a chef. Service was indeed attentive, but was never around when you needed something. The space is cool, but too noisy- I shudder to think what it sounds like on a Friday night. The bill was not ridiculously expensive, but more than what I felt the meal was worth. For my money in NYC there are several better options. Whether you are looking Celebri-chef or just a better meal, the options abound in the big city, so I would stay away from TC's places. So sad, as I really wanted to like this place.

• Pros: Location, dessert, reservation process is amazingly professional
• Cons: $$$'s, service, food wasn't great.

05/19/08

Not impressed

by theeasykill30

Honestly, I expected more from Craftbar. The food was not bad but not great. I expected to be enthralled by Craftbar but instead I was highly underwhelmed. The food is decent but it's not worth what you pay. I think what Mr. Colicchio was going for - elegant yet casual dining - just doesn't work.

• Cons: over-priced, small portion sizes