Lovecraft

Lovecraft Restaurant Review:

The visual and written odes to classic horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, who once lived down the street, will please lovers of the genre. Exposed brick walls, timber and tin plate ceilings are universally appealing. A collection of house-infused liquors like a Fuji apple and pear vodka as well as a smoked bacon bourbon distinguishes this bar and restaurant from the standard East Village watering hole. New American cuisine also stands out. Executive chef Christopher Coleman leaves generic bar choices off the menu. Appetizers such as a tender grilled octopus seared crisp and cut length-wise over julienned vegetables and a pair of crab cakes are offered in their place. Entrées include flaky, moist pistachio-crusted walleye with a subtly nutty crunch. Juicy sliced pork chop is finished in butter and served atop crispy polenta. Sides of baked Brussels sprouts sautéed in bacon and pine nuts and golden french fries imbued with truffle and Parmesan should not be overlooked. Oreo cookie-topped cheesecake is standard but will satisfy any sweet cravings. A downstairs lounge with live music provides post-dining alternatives to the sometimes-crowded bar.