A New American Tavern
By Hillary Latos
Step back in time to the turn of the century at the historic Church Street Tavern where Old World ambience meets the modern flair of Tribeca. With a nod to the past, the space features exposed brick, black subway tiles, plush leather banquettes, exposed brass piping and hanging pendant lamps that set an alluring ambiance for this new American classic.
Chef de Cuisine Ryan Skeen and chef consultant Paul Gerard have designed a contemporary American menu with timeless comfort food favorites along with an extensive and sumptuous raw bar. Steakhouse classics such as lamb chops, dry-aged steak Forestiere with a port jus, crispy fried rock hen with a tangy sherry reduction, grilled branzino and truffle cauliflower gratin are all delectable and satisfying. Other highlights on the menu are the house made creamy burrata, fried oysters topped with truffle, pumpkin bisque, and foie gras torchon with roasted figs and kaffir lime.
To complement the contemporary American menu, their signature cocktails have a fresh and original flair. The Vernanzza features vodka with muddled basil, peach and a sparkling rose, while the Fig and Pine is well balanced with rum, pineapple, lemon, and fig preserves. For a spicy take on the margarita, try the Senorita Margarita with tequila, spicy berry puree, lemon and combier d'orange.
While the upstairs bar exudes a sleek yet chill vibe that's perfect for a first date or post work drinks, their basement speakeasy lounge is touted as Tribeca's next hotspot complete with the requisite membership cards and velvet ropes that New Yorkers seem to crave.
Hidden behind an unmarked door, "members" i.e. VIPs, and industry tastemakers are given a code to enter through a door that leads to the Bandit's Roost named after the iconic 1888 Jacob Riis photograph of a gangster ridden alleyway in NYC's historical Five Points neighborhood. Reflecting the vintage decor of the Prohibition Era, the mirrored entryway with red felt walls and large prints of Jacob Riis' iconic photographs depict the dangerous time period of New York. Offering a modern cocktail menu with rotating DJs, this intimate venue coupled with its intriguing concept is a welcome addition to downtown New York's vibrant nightlife.
Church Street Tavern
313 Church Street
NY, NY 10013
212 804 7766
churchsttavern.com
