VIBE

What was once the old Breslin Hotel has been reinvented as the über-hip Ace Hotel, and its attached restaurant (or, rather, gastropub), The Breslin, is fittingly trendy, in a retro sort of way. The faded ceiling may be the only remaining feature from the turn-of-the-century Breslin original, but the revamped restaurant space still feels historic, with a grand, old-British barroom vibe–there are curtained leather booths, an oak bar, and a meat-filled menu shaped by chef-partner April Bloomfield (of The Spotted Pig renown). Gastronomes and fashionable hipsters alike are drawn by its with its chic, carefully cluttered look and the hearty offerings like guinea-fowl terrine, housemade sausages, and cask-drawn ale.

CROWD

An eclectic mix of gastonomes, hipsters, families, and serious pork lovers.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Go for trendy casual look, like a chic sweater paired with leggings, stylish boots, and a colorful accessory or two.

GO HERE WITH

A date; significant other; friends; family

WHY WE LIKE IT

The expertly crafted cuisine gives this spot an upscale edge. At the same time, the worn, casual surrounds keep it comfortable enough for a low-key meal with family or friends.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Except during breakfast, this place is perpetually packed.

GOOD TO KNOW

Reservations aren’t taken. Well, save for the 12-seat round table by the kitchen, which treats paying parties to either a whole suckling pig dinner or a lamb dinner. The Breslin is the brainchild of The Spotted Pig’s April Bloomfield and Ken Friedman. Those in for breakfast shouldn’t miss boutique coffeehouse Stumptown just next door (also located in the Ace Hotel).

CLOSEST COMPS

The Spotted Pig (New York); Bar Marmont (Los Angeles)

Read more about The Breslin Bar & Dining Room in The Diary

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.