"Maximé Pradié has long been a one-to-watch chef, working at spots like Lodi. Now, leading the kitchen at Zimmi’s (in partnership with Jenni Guizio, an alum of Union Square Hospitality), he’s cooking the homestyle Southern French cooking he grew up with, but doesn’t often make its way to restaurant menus in New York. Dishes like the la pastasciutta (tagliatelle with ragout and sage), lamb stew with olives, mussels with saffron and winter squash, and the vegetable terrine were early standouts. Rice pudding is for dessert. The space itself is small but very charming with its green gingham tablecloths. A wine bar and bakery are on the way next door." - Robert Sietsema