Smith's
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 260-0100
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Between Bleecker Street and Houston Street
- Directions:
- A, C, E; B, D; F, V at W 4th St; 1 at Houston St
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 5:30pm-11pm , Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11:30pm
Editorial Review for Smith's – by Erin Behan
The Scene
The narrow dining room, done in black and white with a mirrored ceiling, recreates the elegant feel of a classic train car. That refinement continues to the cramped but charming bar and a slightly more roomy side dining room. Wait staff rush at a dizzying pace, but the amped kitchen can handle the crowds.
The Food
Chef Pablo Romero (Bouley) whips up a New American comfort classics menu, but with welcome tweaks. The cooked-to-perfection appetizer of charred baby squid gets juice from tiny chunks of lemon confit, olives and pancetta; while heavenly rich artichoke-black truffle pasta bears an unnecessary (albeit tasty) topping of prosciutto. Surf-lovers should look no further than the buttery grilled lobster, which renders its squash puree trivial, and turf fans can turn to the solid grilled rib-eye with a most flavorful char. Less successful is the overly shallot-laced vinagrette on the grilled dorade. Desserts pale--the chocolate bread pudding arrives unevenly heated and Meyer lemon tart isn't tart enough.
Hits: This is a neighborhood restaurant that would be welcome in any hood--its prices are more than reasonable for the quality and its food inspires return visits.
Misses: There's precious little room to wait for a table, and tightly spaced reservations guarantee you'll endure some unwelcome elbow-rubbing in the tiny vestibule or rear bar.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe pricey, often-changing wine list is on the short side, but includes half bottles and a small list of by-the-glass options. The 2006 Dashe Dry Creek Zinfandel is a relatively good bargain at $27 for a half-bottle.
Fun FactThe brains behind the operation are well-known restaurateur Danny Abrams (Mermaid Inn) and his co-partner Cindy Smith (Raoul's).
The ExtrasYour hunger level will determine your need for homey sides like the cheesy cauliflower gratin, but most dishes are served in small enough portions that you'll probably be able to squeeze a couple in.
User Reviews for Smith's
05/03/2008 Posted by goldbarr
The early reviews appear to have been written about a week after this restaurant opened. Give them a break. I was there in April and couldn't disagree with the poor reviews more. the food was delicious, moderately priced and the service was extremely friendly. Our greeting was warm and we loved the sounds of soul being played through most of our evening. The restaurant is a bit loud when it gets busy. Don't miss the bar in the back.
Pros: great food moderately priced beautiful room
Cons: bit loud
04/21/2008 Posted by IglowDoU
The grilled lobster was memorable. I definitely would go back for the service and food. the wine selection was also top notch
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