THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Maison Premiere Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Maison Premiere Restaurant Review:

Settle in at one of the uneven wood tables or at the U-shaped bar amidst the rustic tiled décor and you might feel like you’ve been transported to another century at this popular Williamsburg restaurant. Even the patrons, like the bearded lumberjack-attired hipsters who frequent the place, seem like they’re suited to the environs. Maison Premiere quite possibly serves the best oysters in the city. After being seated, you’re given a paper listing 30-plus oysters and a long lineup of cocktails, many of which are absinthe-based. Turn that paper over to find a limited number of cooked items to savor, though portions are small. Pappardelle-wrapped sea urchin served in a sea urchin shell merits a double order; black cod is flaky and tender; and pigeon pairs with foie gras. Desserts are less inspiring (cheesecake, baba au rhum), so it’s better to drink the final course: there are a handful of great dessert cocktails available. Reservations are not taken, so come early or wait. Happy Hour is offered Monday-Friday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.