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| - Finally went to Butcher and the Rye last night. We got a super early reservation which was about as good as we could do for literally weeks. The place, however, was less than 1/2 full (except for the two bars) the entire time we were there (5:20-7:15). Which made me wonder why it's so hard to get a res? Oh, well. Just note this suggests you can pop in after all.
The decor is interesting. NYC-hipster-trendy-meets-hunting-lodge? I thought it was interesting. My husband was like, huh?
The service was prompt and very pleasant. A definite A plus.
Of course the drinks and menu bore comparison to M&P, which we love. This menu seemed bigger and a bit funkier/less "accessible" than M&P. Lots of aps/small pates, which is a big plus to me. Not too much on the menu for pickier eaters. (Actually, my husband had a limited selection, but I blame him for being picky... doesn't care for tomatoes, pasta and several varieties of cheese... rather limiting.)
We both started with manhattans, which were easily on par with the ones at the speakeasy at the william penn. Definitely worth the trip alone.
I ordered three apps, because I like to taste things (and don't mind left overs). I had the special greens & beans, brussels and shisihto. The greens & beans were an interesting take and were tasty enough, but nothing overwhelming. The brussels and shishito were delish. I would definitely order them again. Roasted brussels sprouts with dill and lemon aoli and shishito (japanese peppers) with siracha aioli -- yum!
My husband ordered the hanger steak feature, which he declared one of the best food compositions, if not the best, he's ever eaten. He just wished there was more of it. (Not a huge portion size and he's a big guy.... he should have ordered a salad...)
I also had a sazerac. Expertly crafted.
Total bill came to $104, which I thought was pretty reasonably for the quality of the food. Cocktails are $10, which is downright cheap for this sort of place downtown.
All in all, we'd definitely go back. Next time, I'd probably just do apps at the bar with cocktails.
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