Now that Lower Manhattan is starting to return to its former self after Hurricane Sandy, I’m happy to report on nine new openings in the district. They range from maternity wear to fried chicken and they are welcome additions.
SouthWest NY – 301 South End Avenue
(212) 945-0528 | www.southwestny.com
SouthWest NY is back and better than ever. The restaurant moved just around the corner to its new home, a space that features an Earth-toned color palette, a large open bar where patrons can enjoy margaritas and cocktails, and a fresh menu with items such as cedar-plank salmon, Mahi Mahi, and NY Strip Steak.
Stamina Grill & Juice Bar – 80 Nassau Street
(212) 513-7020 | www.staminagrill.com
Never fried or cooked in oil, the dishes at Stamina promise to give you energy to conquer your day. This eatery specializes in lean grilled meats and freshly-squeezed juices with names such as “Hangover Cure,” and “Cold Remedy.” Also available are fresh fruit smoothies and protein shakes. The motto at Stamina is “Lose the fat, not the flavor.” The perfect accompaniment to your morning run.
Dirty Bird To-Go – 155 Chambers Street
(212) 964-3284 | www.dirtybirdtogo.com
I had the pleasure of sampling this restaurant’s fare recently and was not disappointed. Dirty Bird’s second outpost (the first is in Chelsea) features all the natural fried chicken and sides of the first in a bit of a larger space. The chickens are fresh and organic and come from local farms. I tried the chicken fingers and mac ‘n cheese, and plan on getting the classic fried chicken and kale the next time I go, which will be soon.
Benares – 45 Murray Street
(212) 766-4900 | www.benaresnyc.com
This Indian restaurant has been getting solid reviews for its lovely space and innovative takes on classic dishes. They have more than 20 vegetarian dishes in honor of the city for which it is named, which is known for its vegetarian cuisine. However, many different cuisines from different regions in India are represented here. Benares has plenty of unusual meat and seafood dishes and also features a 25-bottle wine list.
Black Hound – 301 South End Avenue
(212) 945-0562 | www.blackhoundbar.com
Next door to SouthWest NY is The Black Hound, a handsome bar that adds a welcome dash of nightlife to Battery Park City. Operated by Merchants Hospitality (as is Southwest NY) the bar is being called a “contemporary speakeasy” and offers a variety of cocktails created by mixologist Jeremy Strawn. The Black Hound can accommodate parties of up to 75 guests.
Artion Galleries – 275 Water Street
(212) 608-4759 | www.artiongalleries.com
Opening on a stretch of Water Street affected by Sandy, Artion is proud to open its doors in the South Street Seaport as one of the area’s first art galleries. Artion is a family-owned gallery that started in Greece and has expanded throughout the European, American and Middle Eastern markets. Colombian photographer Carmen Molina’s “Undercurrents” exhibit is currently on display.
Cricketer’s Arms – 57 Murray Street
(212) 619-5550 | www.thecricketersarmsnyc.com
With an old-world British vibe, the Cricketer’s Arms evokes a past time in a former world, but patrons will find plenty of reasons to drop in today. One Yelper described the situation as thus: “Lived in the hood for 10 years, this Pub is the best thing that has happened in a long time.” Also receiving rave reviews are the fried pickles and onion soup.
Lenny’s – 32 Water Street
(212) 785-7500 | www.lennysnyc.com
Lenny’s Deli recently celebrated its grand opening and has been serving up its well-known sandwiches ever since. The extensive menu features sandwiches as well as salads, homestyle meals such as the turkey with stuffing and gravy, and bagels and breakfast foods. Lenny’s is a great place to satisfy your sandwich craving, whatever it may be.
Rosie Pope Maternity – 55 Warren Street
(212) 608-2036 | www.rosiepope.com
Rosie Pope, the star of the television series Pregnant in Heels, has opened a new shop in Lower Manhattan catering to the expectant mom who wants to look stylish even if she hasn’t been able to fit into her regular clothes for months. She offers a full line of basics, dresses and accessories such as purses.
For more information on retailers in Lower Manhattan, visit the Alliance for Downtown New York at www.DowntownNY.com. You can check out an interactive map with details on hours, locations and services and search the events calendar. Or, stay connected through the Downtown Alliance iPhone app, available for download on the website. To order a free hard copy of the new Lower Manhattan Shopping and Dining Guide click here.
