yousef
Google
It knows how to set a scene. Dim lighting, lively patrons, and a cool Brooklyn energy, all soundtracked by '90s hip-hop. No reservations here, which means playing the waiting game. The move is to show up early, give your name, and find something to do until your table's ready. I ended up at the bar—probably the best seat in the house for a smaller party size.
The tuna cracker didn’t win any presentation contests, but it was better than it looked—quality tuna, fresh avocado, a hit of jalapeño, and a crisp base. The beet salad followed with fresh beets, citrus, more avocado, and stracciatella tying it together. The agnolotti brought comforting flavors of brown butter, sage and walnuts. For a non-italian spot, it held its own. Then came the steak frites au poivre—the dish I was most excited for but the biggest letdown. The steak wasn’t the most tender, the fries were ordinary, and the sauce leaned too sweet, missing that peppery-creamy balance. Not inedible, just underwhelming.
Both the mezcal margarita and tokyo old fashioned were strong and well-made, something to sip on and savor. This place shines as a cocktail-and-appetizers spot—maybe try the burger everyone raves about. The vibe never falters.