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Left picture: The Fat Radish; Top right picture: Locusts-on-Hudson; bottom right picture: Blenheim
In the homeland of McDonald’s, in the kingdom of industrial fast-food, where calories rise to the rank of national allegory, was born the dissident concept of “farm to table”. “Farm to table” restaurants advocate a return to the roots and simplification of the production chain: from the farm directly to your plate. The particularity of a “farm to table” restaurant is that they are supplied by local surrounding farms.
Maybe you don’t know it, but NY state has a treasure trove of these farms, especially upstate. Sustainable farming, agro-tourism, organic certification… “farm to table” restaurants extol the virtues of nature in its purest form. It’s 100% hipster and slightly pretentious. Our “farm to table” favorite definitely is Blue Hill at Stone Barns, but it is also the most well-known – let us help you discover more! Our selection :
Blenheim – West Village
283 W 12th Street (212-243-7073)
Blenheim concentrates West Village’s many charms. Muted atmosphere, jazzy music and cozy seating, there is a je-ne-sais-quoi that makes you feel at home. All products come from their eponymous farm in the Catskills. We love their brunch. The menu is not long but the selection is merciless. The portions are (very) small but everything is delicious.
Cherry on top: the warm and inviting atmosphere. Order another coffee, watch onlookers passing by and let the hours steep.
Narcissa – East Village
25 Cooper Square (212-228-3344)
This trendy restaurant at the Standard East Village now gets its supply from Locusts-on-Hudson. Key words are terroir and savor. The farm, located on the left bank of the Hudson river, 100 miles from Manhattan, was built in the 18th century. Fiefdom of many charity galas, the estate has seen the greatest of this world passing through: presidents, royalty, captains of industry, stars from the stage and screen, musicians. An agricultural farming but also the Mecca of high society.
Cherry on top: Narcissa’s beautiful terrace, an oasis of calm and green.
The Fat Radish – Lower East Side
17 Orchard Street (212-300-4053)
One of our favorite spots in the Lower East Side – because of its rustic/chic setting, so-NY atmosphere and gourmet plates. The Fat Radish gets its fresh products from various farms in NY state (from Brooklyn to Old Chatham passing through Poughkeepsie, Bridgeton, Montgomery… a real journey!)
Cherry on top: their bar across the street, The Leadbelly. Ideal pre-dinner with their oyster bar or post-dinner for cocktails and liqueurs, it is the perfect combo bar/restaurant.