Clocktower
It has been quite a while since I have dined at Clocktower so I was looking forward to the opportunity for a return visit.  My last few times were for drinks only as there is no dining allowed at the bar (which I still do not understand).  While the cherry tomato salad was very good, and I can’t believe I am about to complain about a portion size being too large, I was suffering from tomato fatigue by the time I finished.  Of course avocado toast is overdone, but its so good when done well and I rarely have the willpower to pass it up on a menu.  But in a city awash in much better versions, this one was anemic and overall quite sad.  Thank god for the brittle and shortbread that appeared with the check.  Two of my favorite sweets of all time.

Heirloom cherry tomato, Brooklyn burrata, sourdough, basil

Avocado on toast, poached eggs

Le Coucou
Le Coucou may very well be my favorite restaurant opening of 2016 thus far.  Impeccable but incredibly friendly service.  Gorgeous dining room.  Properly spaced tables.  Energetic yet you are easily able to carry on conversation without yelling or struggling to hear.  Perhaps the first NY restaurant in ages that I would take my parents to.  And really really great food.  In a day of double Stephen Starr an experience worlds away from brunch.  The rabbit could easily be for 2 and the proper cheese course impossible to turn down.

Salade de homard, sauce lauris
lobster tail, basil, tomato, sauce lauris

Quenelle de brochet, sauce americaine
pike quenelle, lobster sauce


Tout le lapin
all of the rabbit



Cheese (obviously)