Tree
New York, NY 10009
Phone: (212) 358-7171
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Between 11th Street and 12th Street
- Directions:
- L at 1st Ave
- Specialties:
- Brunch, Outdoor Dining
- Best of Citysearch:
- Outdoor Dining 2007
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 5pm-12am, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am, Sun 11am-12am
Editorial Review for Tree – by Justin Hartung
The Scene
The interior of this tiny store-front space hasn't changed much since its days as beloved restaurant Brunetta's. East Villagers--those who live there, and those who party there--wait at the bar for a table inside the intimate, warmly lit dining room, or better yet, in the plant-filled, 60-seat back garden. The small kitchen can be slow, but the gracious, knowledgeable service helps ease frustration.
The Food
The bistro fare is as fresh and steadfast as the restaurant's name would imply. In a richly decadent rendition, foie gras is seared, so that a savory crust protects the creamy center. Potato galette anchors a pink, mouthwatering mound of tuna tartare, green peppercorns add zip to a thick, well-charred steak and tender fennel gets along swimmingly with the subtle flavor of flaky ruff fish. A few bad seeds sprout up, however, especially dull desserts like gloppy chocolate mousse and freezer-burned gelato.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe French-only reasonably priced wine list includes a $26 bottle of hearty Bordeaux Chateau Molin de Lavergne that holds up well with the heavier dishes.
Dine at BarThe restaurant only takes reservations for parties of six or more, and the garden fills up quickly, but often the wait is shorter for one of the bar seats.
BrunchThe more internationally minded brunch menu include dishes like Eggs Sardou, made with spinach and artichokes, and huevos rancheros ($9 each).
User Reviews for Tree
05/27/2008 Posted by kerit
This place smelled so good, I couldn't WAIT to get in. The bartender apologized - there was a party in the garden so there was only seating at the bar - sitting and eating at the bar is my favorite! Then it went down hill. The service was AWEFUL!!!! They were soooo confused: Does this go at this table? No? How about yours? I suspect that the table 2 down from us (out of 5) got our food as they came in 40min after us and got served. We left. We had an hour and a half before having to leave for our movie, and our food NEVER CAME. There was no one directing the orchestra. They bring shame to professional waiters all over the city!
Pros: Good wine list
Cons: SERVICE
04/25/2008 Posted by Fr3d3rick
It is the best restaurant with the best ambiance.I was there last saturday and it was my best dinner ever.Thanks to them
