Tucked away on a quiet stretch of Madison Avenue is a homey restaurant invoking the feeling of a small town. White wood walls give it a seaside vibe, and all the manic energy of the city outside quietly melts away as your sip your first glass of wine from an interesting and off the beaten path wines-by-the-glass list.
Years of experience, hospitality and love have gone into a restaurant that has worked hard to reinvent itself. Spoon Table & Bar‘s new location has churned the wheels of innovation, as well as recruited a new band of followers. Though a short walk from its original Flatiron location, the cultural disparities are just jarring enough to spark a conversation. Owner and Executive Chef Melissa Chmelar has been in the restaurant business for over fifteen years, and her warmth and dedication to her craft are as tangible as they are infectious.
Spoon offers comfort food prepared simply and deliciously, for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and is a grounding addition to the revolving door of this neighborhood.
Here’s what we ate:
Berkshire Pork Chop
Grilled and on the bone, this bright ray of meaty sunshine was smothered in a whole grain mustard sauce and served with creamy, scallion-y smashed potatoes and flash-fried Swiss chard and kale. Zesty and just a little bit spicy, this was a home run.
Fried Chicken Sammie
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside: this is how a fried chicken sandwich is done. The bourbon pickled green tomato and fennel slaw didn’t hurt, either. If you’re in the mood for a stick to your ribs sandwich, this is the way to go.
Cauliflower Steak
Showcased by capers, slivered almonds, and lemon zest, this side dish would provide a welcome burst of brightness to any table.
Banoffee Pudding
Fresh bananas float atop layered piles of dulce de leche and vanilla pudding. Garnished with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and stroopwafel, which adds both a crunchy texture and a vessel with which to scoop the pudding. Thinking I was too full for dessert, I nearly passed on this sweet gem. Don’t make the same mistake – save room for dessert.
Twisted Talk: Have you ever dined at Spoon before? What’s your favorite dish? Discuss below!
