The high-end French bistro, Minetta Tavern, originally opened in 1937, was named after the eponymous Brook that ran southwest from 23rd Street to the Hudson River. Various writers — Ernest Hemingway, Ezra Pound, Eugene O’Neill, E. E. Cummings, Dylan Thomas, and Joe Gould — frequented the tavern.

Today it still has vintage decor, a warm vibe and friendly service.

While sipping our hearty cocktails — my Bulleit Old Fashioned, one friend’s Cosmo and Lemon Drop ($21 each), we nibbled their warm loaf of bread. Dangerously, addictive.


Two of us indulged in their acclaimed burger and fries. Since we couldn’t decide between the regular Minetta burger ($31) topped with Cheddar or the Black Lable burger ($38) made from a selection of prime dry-aged beef cuts each topped with caramelized onions and a pile of pommes frites,  we split both.  Hands down, the dry-aged burger is the one not to miss.

One friend who always avoids red meat ordered the shaved Brussels sprouts salad ($25) topped with a poached egg and Dijon. She omitted with lardons and Parmesan cheese. Simple and delicious. She also enjoyed the Yellowfin tuna crudo ($28) with large tuna chunks and artichoke pieces in a black truffle vinaigrette drizzled in sesame oil.

I recommend stopping by for strong cocktails, delicious burgers and fries and friendly service. Plus, the ambiance.

Minetta Tavern
Greenwich Village
113 MacDougal St (Between W 3rd St and W 4th St)
New York, NY 10012
(212) 475-3850
minettatavernny.com/