If you walked down second ave. to Houston anytime in the last 10 years there wouldn't have been much to see after 4th st. Just a big pay parking lock, some boarded up buildings, maybe some puddles of urine and some very creative graffiti. More recently that area has gotten a makeover. One of the most notable changes is the transformation of said parking lot into the fantastic Bowery Hotel. If you haven't been in the Bowery I recommend it. The lounge is comfortable and stylish, the walls paneled with worn wood and furnished with antique couches, it would be a suitable hang out for the bowery boys of old. But the real gem of the Bowery is Gemma, the restaurant located on the ground floor. If you are lucky enough to get a table at this hip eatery you will not be disappointed. Through the large glass and steel doors you will find a dimly lit but very intimate space with a mix of horseshoe booths and tables across the floor. While usually packed and lively the ambiance allows for both romantic dinners and wine fueled bouts of debate among friends. If you are with a large party the back room contains a large table in front of a beautiful antique mirror with hundreds of melted candles and inches of wax framing the bottom. At the back of the restaurant you can get a glimpse of the kitchen in action over a service bar adorned with massive legs of prosciutto. Once seated you are given a large rectangular menu and warm bread with olive oil. The wine list is available and extensive, brave it if you dare or simply ask the very knowledgeable sommelier. The menu contains a variety of meats and cheeses to choose from, has several types of pizza and an assortment of fish, poultry and beef. I am not going to list the menu here because you should go see it for yourself but the specials are always delicious. I like Gemma because you are gauranteed that anything you order will be exceptional. The buffalo mozzarella with sweet figs is fantastic and every pizza I have ordered is hot, crispy and delicious. The carpaccio here is the best i have ever tasted and comes garnished in the traditional manner with parmigiana and arugula. Now that I am trying to recollect my favorites I am drawing a blank because everything served is amazing and its impossible to choose. All the meats and cheeses are the highest quality and the lamb and duck are outrageous. Finally we cannot forget the olive oil gelato and hot chocolate cake! All the desserts are heavenly but these two stand out. The food and atmosphere are nicely complemented by the good service. The waitstaff at Gemma are fast, polite and helpful. Overall Gemma is a fantastic culinary experience. Good food, great wine, great service and a energized atmosphere make Gemma a no brainer. This restaurant is a much needed addition to the area and will continue to be my go to spot for impressing out of towners!
Food: 4/4
Service: 4/4
Wine: 4/4
Gemma
335 Bowery btw 2nd and 3rd St.
New York, NY
10003
(212) 505 9100
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