VIBE

This gem, tucked away in a former speakeasy in the heart of Greenwich Village, specializes in seasonal American cuisine with all ingredients sourced from nearby farms including the Blue Hill farms in New York and Massachusetts. The warm dining room and patio are decorated with understated simplicity, much like the presentation of the food. And the food, oh the food. From the first bite, you'll rediscover tastes you thought you knew and savor how delicious something as simple as sweet potato or grass-fed lamb can truly be.

CROWD

Foodies and well-heeled locals.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s all about subtlety. We would go with a classic navy dress with Manolos and a simple clutch.

GO HERE WITH

A date; family; friends; foodies

WHY WE LIKE IT

The organic ingredients used in their foods make for a spectacular eating experience. We had the most amazing vegetables (served naked and in all their natural glory–we couldn’t believe there were no other ingredients other than the veggies) and a phenomenal veal chop from its own Stone Barns.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The very dim lighting. It’s romantic for sure, but the food is so spectacular that we would love to see it a bit more clearly.

GOOD TO KNOW

Generally off the radar as far as big NY restaurants go, Blue Hill got a dose of political celebrity in recent years when President Obama and the First Lady dined there for their date night. Some of the food is sourced from their Hudson Valley farm, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, which also offers equally spectacular food in their tasting menus. After eating there, we love walking around the grounds to see where our food just came from.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Pocantico Hills, NY

CLOSEST COMPS

BLT Market (New York); Chez Panisse (Berkeley)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.