When a date asks where you’ll be squiring her that evening, “to the new Andrew Carmellini spot” is a damn good answer.
An even better answer? “To the new Andrew Carmellini spots.” Plural.
The man behind The Dutch, Lafayette and Locanda Verde has two spankin’ new projects in Tribeca, and we’ve got the three-step plan for a date night she’ll remember.
Step One
Tucked behind the lobby of The Smyth, a Thompson Hotel, you’ll find Evening Bar, Carmellini’s cozy new cocktail den of dim lighting, worn leather couches and geometrically tiled hardwood. Grab a spot by the fireplace — it’s now fireplace season, after all — and order a porcini and Scotch nog from PDT vet Anne Robinson.
Step Two
No need to leave the Smyth for dinner — Little Park, Carmellini’s super-seasonal eatery just opened in there as well. Ask for a corner table along the periphery of two-tops — best for people watching. Then go crispy Brussels sprouts, black kale ravioli with pine nuts, and the dry-aged duck. Check out the menu.
Step Three
For dessert, stroll up Church St. to the first Manhattan outpost of Red Hook cakemakers Baked (of famed cookbooks and seasonal whoopie pies). Don’t sleep on the sweet and salty hot chocolate — it’s the season for that too.
You’re on your own for Step Four.
Photo credit: Noah Fecks
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