In 2013, Wylie Dufrense won the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s Best NYC Chef award. That same year, Dufrense opened his second restaurant in New York’s East Village called Alder. Alder NYC is considered a “modernistic public house” by many restaurant goers and features the very popular small eats plates at a great, economic price.
Dufrense and his executive chef, Jon Bignelli, have created a brilliant, modern menu where no single item costs more than $24. The pub cheese alone is worth a visit to Alder. Other menu item must-tries include Alder’s version of Pigs in a Blanket, Okonomiyaki Silver Dollars, Rye Pasta, and, for dessert, Root Beer Pudding. Alder’s clientel can’t rave enough about the casual, yet sophisticated menu and keep coming back for more.
The minimalist décor of Alder is charming and casual where you will feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying their food. The fully stocked bar has a menu that is also on the small side. Alder offers half sized cocktails for those wanting to sample more than one of the bars many superb creations. Try the Bikini Season made with Avua cachaca, Velvet Falernum, and mixed with makrud lime. It’s light and well balanced for the perfect summer drink.
Reservations are recommended for Alder but not necessary. It’s considered a “neighborhood gem” in the East Village and can fill up very quickly. The friendly service, along with the small eats and drinks menu, will make you feel comfortable just being there and give you the urge to come back again and again.
Weekend Eats Choice: Alder NYC
Images courtesy of Alder Restuarant, Words By Jessika Brown © Fashion IQ, 2015