🚕 Chez Ma Tante Makes the Leap to Manhattan

Good Morning NY!

Before we say hello to a brand-new year of dining, we’re looking back at the stories that shaped 2025.

From fast-food expansions to food-hall struggles, celebrity openings to dine-and-dash drama, NYC’s restaurant world was anything but quiet.

Today, we’re diving into the biggest headlines, exciting openings, and the trends that defined how New Yorkers ate this year.

Let’s get into it — and get hungry.

NYC’s Biggest Restaurant Stories of 2025

2025 was a year of big moves and bold headlines for New York City’s food scene.

Jamaica’s beloved fast-food chain Juici Patties expanded with six locations across the city.

The NYC Department of Education faced scrutiny over a $745,000 catering deal with a single Brooklyn restaurant.

L.A.’s exclusive San Vincente club opened in the West Village, attracting food and nightlife attention.

DoorDash drew backlash for political involvement, while food halls like Citizens Market Hall struggled to keep pace.

Celebrity influence made waves with Bradley Cooper launching a cheesesteak shop in the East Village.

British Indian brand Dishoom expanded, and Tashkent Supermarket brought Central Asian groceries to the West Village.

Upscale restaurants faced dine-and-dash fraud, and longtime spots like Il Totano closed, replaced by new concepts.

These stories highlight a year defined by expansion, controversy, celebrity influence, and evolving dining trends across NYC.

Smithereens Brings Dark New England Seafood Vibes to the East Village

Smithereens, a new seafood spot in the East Village, is turning heads with its unusual New England–inspired menu.

The subterranean, moody interior evokes a Salem‑winter atmosphere, contrasting with the bright feel of typical seafood restaurants.

Chef Nick Tamburo, formerly of Claud and Momofuku Ko, crafts inventive dishes that push beyond traditional raw bars.

Highlights include buckwheat pancakes with smoked bluefish, rice with quahog clams, and abalone skewers with shiitake and egg yolk.

Bread served with seaweed butter is a must to soak up the rich sauces and flavors.

Desserts are playful and unconventional, from apple cider doughnuts to celery ice cream floats with marinated cherries.

The intimate, narrow space enhances the adventurous dining experience, making every visit feel unique.

Smithereens is quickly becoming a destination for seafood lovers seeking creativity and personality in the East Village.

Chez Ma Tante Makes the Leap to Manhattan

Beloved Greenpoint bistro Chez Ma Tante is expanding to Manhattan with a new Hudson Square location.

The restaurant has signed a lease at 555 Greenwich Street, marking its first footprint outside Brooklyn.

This new space spans over 4,400 square feet, offering room for a larger dining experience in a growing neighborhood.

Chez Ma Tante first opened in 2017 and briefly closed in early 2024 for structural repairs, before reopening that summer.

Its return was met with excitement from fans who love its refined comfort cuisine and standout dishes.

The move to Hudson Square reflects the area’s rising status as a hub for dining and development.

While menu and opening details are still under wraps, expectations are already high for what’s next.

New York diners will soon have another chance to enjoy one of the city’s favorite neighborhood restaurants.

NYC’s Newest Dining Gems to Try Now

New York City’s dining scene is buzzing with exciting new openings.

The Infatuation highlights a lineup of fresh and diverse spots across the boroughs.

On the Lower East Side, Bistrot Ha brings a unique blend of French and Vietnamese flavors.

Williamsburg’s The Sparrow offers a chic 1930s Parisian-inspired escape.
Midtown welcomes Traveler near Bryant Park with Asian-driven cocktails and seasonal small plates.

South Indian favorite Dosa Royale expands in Fort Greene with its signature dosas.
Brooklyn Heights introduces Diljān, a bakery showcasing Afghan pastries and breads.

Greenwich Village celebrates the arrival of Randy’s Donuts with its famous L.A. classics.

Chelsea’s Seirēn elevates conservas and Mediterranean-style cocktails in a stylish setting.

Queens also gets attention with Godunk’s Thai street food and First Cup’s Bengali-American comfort bites.

From global flavors to nostalgic treats, NYC continues to deliver unforgettable dining adventures.

Central Asian Comfort Finds a Home in the West Village

Tashkent Supermarket has officially arrived in the West Village.

The popular market is known for bringing authentic Central Asian and post-Soviet flavors to New York City.

This new Manhattan location builds on the success of their Brooklyn and Queens stores.

Customers can enjoy favorites like warm plov, flaky samsas, and tender manty dumplings.

Packed aisles offer imported groceries and snacks that spark nostalgia for many immigrants.

Local food lovers are also discovering the market thanks to social media buzz.
Its prepared food bar has quickly become a highlight for quick lunches and dinners.

Prices are slightly higher in Manhattan, but the convenience and unique offerings make up for it.

For anyone seeking new culinary adventures, Tashkent delivers a delicious taste of Central Asia right downtown.

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