The Dutch

SoHo - Corner of Sullivan St and Prince St

American Nouveau

Nothing like waking up to the aroma of a Dutch oven.  Nobody loves his own brand like chef Andrew Carmellini of The Dutch, Soho’s trendy hot spot.  A Food & Wine Best New Chef award, two James Beard Awards and enough stars from Michelin and the New York Times to ice out the Milky Way.  This guys no joke, and neither is his food. 

After opening Locande Verde and proving his Italian prowess in Robert DeNiro’s Greenwich Hotel, Carmellini decided to go the American route.  No, I’m not referring to trapping your significant other under the covers engulfed in your own morning brew.  I’m talking about an American restaurant, bar and oyster room.

The Dutch is known for its celebrity spottings.  As I threw back some delicious Kumamoto oysters, Jane Krakowski from NBC’s 30 Rock sat right down on my lap.  And by lap, I mean at a table across the room with her family.  Tomato tomäto.  Which brings me to my next point…great Bloody Mary’s.  Not too much horseradish, just the right amount of salt on the brim, an all around great flavor garnished with an olive to top it all off.

Brunch, Lunch, Supper; they do it all well.  Two perfectly fried eggs atop hominy grits, chorizo and salsa verde hit the spot.  Our waiter was somewhat silent; the check somewhat deadly, but at The Dutch a premium for quality food and a “be scene” atmosphere is expected.  Waft it all in, and enjoy.