VIBE

The two airy rooms of this modestly simple but beautiful venue are tastefully decked out with imported 20th century Austrian fixtures and genuine Julian Schnabel paintings (the artist himself just so happens to be a regular). Situated on a street corner, it attracts a neighborhood crowd looking to connect with an upscale Village scene. The elegant turn-of-20th century Viennese design plays well against the Michelin-starred cuisine’s modern interpretations.

CROWD

A diverse collection of West Village schmoozers, foodies, and the occasional celebrity.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Business casual; try an elegant blouse with skirt, matching heels, and bangles.

GO HERE WITH

Significant other; a date; another couple; a few friends; parents

WHY WE LIKE IT

It is very West Village cool–the cultured diners appreciate the impressive original art and outstanding food, but do their best to appear immune to the allure of the celebrity clientele.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Nothing.

GOOD TO KNOW

Wallsé is one of five venues in chef/co-owner Kurt Gutenbrunner’s Viennese restaurant group (others include Blaue Gans and Café Sabarsky, which is inside the Neue Galerie). The restaurant is named after the 15th century Austrian village where Gutenbrunner was born. At dinner, a four-course tasting menu is available for $80 and a six-course tasting menu is available for $110; both offer wine pairings for an additional fee. Brunch features many of the dinner specialties, plus more casual offerings like bratwurst.

CLOSEST COMPS

Blaue Gans (New York); Nougatine (New York)

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