 This West Village restaurant set in a subterranean space that was formerly a Laundromat made news when it opened because it uses the building’s rooftop as a hydroponic garden, culling as much as eighty percent of its produce from this lofty spot. But can this extreme locavore gimmick give Bell Book, & Candle an edge? Not really. The lovely, low-lit, exposed-brick space is an eye-pleasing venue, but the offerings from the kitchen fell flat more often than not. Orders of donut-size greasy onion rings and flavor-muted sardines were forgettable. Caramelized Brussels sprouts, aided by thick chunks of bacon, however, hit the spot. So did the lobster taco, rolled like a mini burrito and filled with the silky crustacean. The wine list spins the globe with a few affordable bottles in the $30s (though the by-the-glass selections are too pricey).
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RESTAURANT AWARDS
We just published the 2012 edition of our annual restaurant issue, featuring the Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S. and much more. Check it out!
THE BEST BURGERS IN TOWN
Hungry for a hamburger? From simple patties with a pickle to gourmet takes by top toques, we've compiled lists of the Top 10 Burgers in cities across the USA, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.
