"This is a solid contemporary neighborhood bistro. \n\nI liked Avenue B for its\n* frequently changing menu with up-to-date dishes that appeal to current palates\n* fresh ingredients\n* competent kitchen -- overall, the food is pretty good\n* competent front staff -- friendly hostess, helpful wait staff\n* comfortable ambiance \n* pricing -- comparing to other restaurants of its type, not too expensive\n\nWhy it's not a 5 star:\nWhile the kitchen does have the basics down (they won't overcook the meat, for example) not every component of every dish works. I do appreciate that they are at least trying to put together interesting flavors, but sometimes the combination is just off. Of what I've sampled there, I'd rate the dishes in the B range -- they are far from a disaster, but none was a hit-out-of-the-park winner.\n\nRecently, a friend walked into Salt of the Earth and confused it with Avenue B (because of the oversized chalkboards). I thought the two restaurants make an interesting comparison. I'd give the food nod to Salt, but I probably would visit AveB more frequently because it is a more comfortable dining experience overall."^^ . "4"^^ . "4"^^ . . "1"^^ . . "0"^^ . . "2011-02-03T00:00:00"^^ .