Tucked behind The Garret and a sliding barn door lies Dinnertable, an intimate, friendly foodie experience that makes for an out-of-the-ordinary NYC night.
Who To Take: a foodie pal or someone who enjoys communal dining in a cozy atmosphere
That’s where we were on the sixth day of celebrating my birthday. I was delighted to be dining with Jenn, HOBNOB’s cookbook editor, as she is game for trying just about anything—and a fellow foodie. Plus we got to sample the new menu from Chef Ricardo Arias, who has come up with a medley of unique and tasty bites with a Japanese influence.
Once inside (after ringing the bell to get in) the compact room offered seats for about 20, with one long communal table, a couple of two-tops, and four seats along the bar. We opted for the bar, wanting to witness and be involved in the food prep and camaraderie which was happening on the other side.
Our dinner was spectacular, with one dish better than the next. We shared six small plates, plus dessert. Round one showcased small round bites of a crudo of white shrimp in a delish wasabi sauce. The shrimp’s texture was extra creamy, and this opener did much to cleanse and open our palates. Jenn made sure to eat the crunchy antennae, and sucked on the head of the shrimp that was presented with the crudo, to get the full effect. (see photo at the top of this post)
For our second dish we received ribbons of cucumber adorned with caviar and sesame seeds and a bit of chicken—also great.
In dish number three, we loved the globs of creamy sauce on the tasty Beef Tartare.
Then we tried the octopus poke which was made even fresher by a bevy of fresh corn and peppers.
Yuca salad arrived looking like a typical potato salad. (I find yuca to be an overlooked ingredient. As opposed to the potato, it’s less heavy, and feels like a crisper, cleaner bite.)
For our main course we split an order of the striped bass which came as a generous portion with a lovely sauce and veggies on the side.
What’s a birthday without a little dessert? The DT Sundae was just the right size to split and enjoy a bite of mini candy bars and marshmallows over ice cream. Chef Arias adds the crowning touch in the photo.
Wines here were also lovely with the food, we started with a soft, bubbly rosé, Domaine du Vieux Pressoir Saumur, and switched to a Tuscan white later: 2010 Montenidoli Il Templar. HOBNOB highly recommends this spot for a casual and personal treat.
Dinnertable, 206 Avenue A (btw 12th/13th Sts); located in the back of The Garret, factor time in to enjoy a cocktail at The Garret before you head in for dinner
