The year is now more than half over, and it's clear that Hamilton Heights remains one of uptown's fastest-evolving neighborhoods. Three ambitious places to eat and drink have opened in the last six months, and more are coming soon. Here's a quick rundown:
The year kicked off with the opening of L'Argot (142 Hamilton Place), a cozy, brick-walled space to enjoy drinks, dishes with worldly flair (see the chimichurri skirt steak), and live jazz–saxophonist Daniel Schnyder is part-owner. A small patio in the back now also offers al fresco dining.
More recently, "The Plan" author Lyn-Genet Recitas took over the old Draft House space and turned it into Lyn-Genet's Kitchen (3473 Broadway), a friendly spot with a wide-ranging menu focused on foods that fight inflammation. It's health-minded, but you can still have fun. As the drinks menu explains, "Food is your medicine, cocktails are your remedy."
One block south, local cigar lounge owner Felix Paredes quietly opened Harlem Wine Room (3454 Broadway) in May right next door to his smoke lounge. You can't miss it: There's a colorful mural of climbing grape vines around a bright blue door. The subterranean space offers a range of live jazz that pairs perfectly with the many smooth Italian and Spanish wines, as well as prosecco and two kinds of sangria. Another reason to drop by? According to a Harlem tipster, Jay-Z is a silent investor.
A variety of other spots are on the horizon. Popular sushi joint Geisha Sushi (3468 Broadway) looks to be expanding into 3472 Broadway, the space right next door, but it's not clear yet if the restaurant will have the same name or menu.
It's hard to tell from the narrow storefront, but new bar and restaurant Hamilton Hall (3489 Broadway) will have plenty of room for guests to spread out. The gastropub-type spot–think steak sandwiches, cheese plates from Murray's Cheese, craft cocktails, and 14 types of local beer on tap–will feature two large bars, a private party space and a beer garden in the back.
Over on Amsterdam Avenue, River Thai Cuisine (1766 Amsterdam Ave), Mumbai Masala's sister restaurant, should be debuting soon; earlier plans called for a spring opening.
Closer to City College, new bubble tea spot Tidal Tea (1520 Amsterdam Ave) will be taking over the corner space that used to house a Chinese takeout place–a welcome option for students looking for an alternative to coffee. A sign in the window says it's opening in July.
