The sultry days of summer often bring with them nostalgia for trips we’ve taken and childhood car rides to ice cream stands. Luckily in a city like New York, the culinary experiences seem endless, and this year foodies can look forward to exciting new menus and pop-ups. From a Michelin-recognized taco spot that landed here from Mexico City to a special Italian-style spritz cocktail menu at Rosemary’s, there is a place for all types of tastes.
It is no secret that the Aperol Spritz cocktail has become the drink of the summer and Rosemary’s in the West Village wants to help you get it the way you like. We attended the launch of their new menu and can report back that there are eight options, which means you will never get bored as you spritz all summer long. The Limoncello Spritz has to be our personal favorite. Pair it with their Focaccia bread and a bowl of pasta. Rosemary’s is known for their Italian roots and fresh ingredients from their very own rooftop garden. If you seek garden-fresh ingredients and playful dishes, this is the one place you want to be on any night of the week. Come here with someone who enjoys spritz cocktails and wants to remember their Roman vacation. It just might inspire a new one!
Rosemary’s, 18 Greenwich Ave (corner of 10th St) West Village
Since its opening during the pandemic, Bandits has become a beloved West Village bar that brings us cheeky diner-style fun and carefully-made cocktails. This spring they changed things up with a Bandits Burger and Dive debut. The new menu concept offers nostalgic summer classics, like the Tavern Burger, and the very trendy Smashburger. We tried the new menu, and while Bandits is already one of our favorite bars, tasting their burger took our love of this retro bar to the next nevel. It was juicy and full of flavor. If burgers and beers sound too casual, Bandit’s bartenders can also make a crisp martini. On Mondays you can enjoy them all night long for just $10. Make it combo, SmashBurger, old fashioned Crinkle Cut Fries and Martini for $25.
Other creative dishes to try are the French Onion Dip with Chips and The Filet O’Bedford, which is dressed to impress with shredded iceberg and smoked roe tartar. The throwback burger joint theme will surely make you long for summer days of the past. After all, nothing says summer like a burger and cold beer in hand. We also feel it is important to mention that Bandits stays open until 2am on weekdays and 4am on Friday and Saturday for those late night hangs.
Bandits Burger + Dive, 44 Bedford St (betw Leroy/Carmine St) West Village
This summer you can travel to Mexico City with the help of a six-month pop-up at 86 University Place. Cariñito, which means “little love” arrived in the city this spring, and we often find ourselves stopping by after the gym. This spot is constantly buzzing with energy and for a good reason. The Michelin-recognized taquería uses Asian influences to stand out from the rest, and the results are full of flavor. The menu features nine playful items, with names like “What She’s Having” and “Eggplant Laos.” While we recommend stopping by more than once and trying it all, we do have favorites. Cantones, an eight spiced pork belly taco topped with pickles, and What She’s Having using spicy Chinese mustard are especially delectable. The Corn Ribs are a must with every order. While at the register order a glass of natural wine. Speaking of drinks. We hear there is a secret bar upstairs, open from Thursday to Saturday. The bar serves agave drinks and cocktails using Mexican spirits. Some nights it turns into quite the party.
Carinito has a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The space mainly provides standing room, with makeshift seating, and scattered seats on the outside. It’s all part of the fun. Whether you are looking for a vibrant spot for a date, or need to satisfy your taco cravings for lunch, Carinito is a must-try!
Cariñito Tacos, 86 University Pl (betw 11/12th St) West Village
If you happen to live downtown you have likely heard of Cafe Maud! The stylish but laid back Irish all-day cafe just celebrated their one year anniversary. Since its opening last year this corner restaurant has become a neighborhood staple for anyone looking to have brunch, dinner or cocktails at the bar. They even have a coffee window during the day and a speakeasy (The Rhymers Club) in the back at night. The lively atmosphere at Cafe Maud continues to draw us in! We stopped by to congratulate them on their anniversary, and to try their new summer menu.
The menu at Cafe Maud changes from brunch to dinner and includes classics like pizzas and steak and eggs, but also playful fishes like Asian BBQ Sauce Chicken Lollipops (among our favorite dishes to order) and Shrimp Ceviche. This summer they brought back the Pesto & Prosciutto Panuzzo, Acai Bowl and Fusilli Crudaiola. The most exciting addition to the menu is the Spritz Froze, which is the most perfect drink of the summer. We tried the sippable slushy for ourselves and it was refreshing without being too sweet or bitter. This well-balanced orangey drink is truly invigorating! If you love frozen cocktails, make sure to also try Cafe Maud’s frozen margarita. Coming here is always a pleasant experience, one that includes great people watching.
Cafe Maud, 132 2nd Ave (betw St Marks Pl/9th St) East Village
In the last few years Governors Island has become one of those local must-visit spots that continues to surprise us! In the summer you will find a good variety of food and drink options, which have all types of setups, typically in the outdoors. Among them is Island Oyster, which has become our personal go-to destination on the island. Opened in 2017 by the Grand Banks team, this restaurant is a staple and just steps away from the ferry terminal. Eating here includes incredible views of Manhattan and a waterfront breeze. Unfortunately this will be their last summer on Governor’s Island, which makes it vital that you visit and enjoy the resort-style atmosphere while you can. Whether you are visiting the island for its spa, museum or bike rides, Oyster Island is a welcomed escape. The refreshing seasonal menu features tropical cocktails, wild-caught seafood dishes and Pina Colada ice cream.
If you still have room for more, we recommend stopping by the La New Yorkina kiosk for a Mexican frozen treat. La Newyorkina is known for their natural ingredients and classic Mexican sweets. The ice pops come in unique and seasonal flavors, varying from fruity and creamy to spicy. The founder and James Beard nominee, Fany Gerson, also owns Fan Fan Doughnuts and Mijo at Pier 57. La Newyorkina ice cream showcases diverse and rich ingredients, which will make you want to try them all. We recommend the Prickly Pear, Avocado-Chocolate and Oiishi Koyo Strawberry. Of course, there are a lot of flavors to choose from, but the kiosk at Governor’s Island might be varied and limited. This year you can also find them at their brick and mortar location in Red Hook, Market 57 at Pier 57 and on Governors Island from Thursday to Sunday.
Island Oyster, 146 Carder Rd, near the ferry terminal
La Newyorkina, Kiosk at King Avenue Food Court
Governors Island, take the ferry from lower Manhattan at 10 South St Slip 7, Financial District
