Gramercy Tavern is a NYC dining institution, known for its seasonal fare in a beautifully decorated historic building. I visited Gramercy Tavern for the first time this spring, and my friends who had raved to me about the restaurant were certainly not exaggerating. Gramercy Tavern is a great restaurant for special occasions, and in a city with a plethora of vegetarian-friendly options, it remains a special treat for vegetarians as well.
The first thing I noticed upon entering the restaurant was their gorgeous flower arrangements throughout the restaurant. I can confidently say that this experience led me to ask, for the first time in my life, "Who does their flowers?" Stunning - I wish I had taken a picture!
I started my meal (a lunch) with a beet salad, topped with a few light garnishes - great way to start my lunch as the beets were perfectly balanced between firm and soft, and the sweetness of the beets was nicely offset by the herbs and popcorn on the dish.
I then ordered the Emmer Pappardelle with radicchio as my main course, which also was relatively light and fresh for a pasta dish, particularly one comprised of a stronger wheat base. The staff also expertly handled my nut allergy and omitted the walnuts that would otherwise come with the dish.
While dessert would have been a little much for lunch, I definitely look forward to returning to Gramercy Tavern for either a heavier lunch or dinner in the coming months. Just to look at the great flowers again seems like reason enough to return!
42 E. 20th Street (btwn. Park and Broadway)
Flatiron, Manhattan
A short walk from the N/R at 23rd Street, or a slightly longer 7 - 10 minute walk from the 4/5/6/N/Q/R/L trains at 14th Street-Union Square, or a 10 minute walk from the M/F trains at 23rd Street.