More so than any other section of NYC, West Village restaurants have a common neighborhood feel to them. Like the people who flock to them, these spots are understated, stylish and well groomed. The current king of the scene? Cafe Cluny. It doesn’t get much cuter (did I just say that?) than this place as it’s nestled on the ideal corner of W. 4th and W. 12th. Cluny is money for breakfast and a reliable option for lunch and dinner as well. It’s pretty much a can’t miss for all kinds of Infatuation “Perfect For” categories including Chronic Brunch , Neighborhood Hang , Date Night and After Work Drinks & Dinner. Next time you’re grabbing food in the WV, avoid the two hour wait at Joseph Leonard, don’t even consider The Place next door and get your Cluny on.
Food Rundown:
Homemade Granola
I’m not exactly the granola type, but had this the other day and now I’m hooked. The granola is real crunchy, berries fresh and yogurt filling.
Brioche French Toast
There’s a certain balance to French toast that makes or breaks it; the outside layer, especially the crust (the best part), needs to have a crispy crunch to it while the inside needs to be soft and doughy, but firm and not runny. Cluny executes this to perfection. I’m salivating writing this.
Breakfast Club Sandwich
I love a good breakfast sandwich. In general, I think they get overlooked which is unfortunate. Cafe Cluny’s double decker club represents in a big way with a heavy dose of fried eggs to go along with avocado, bacon, tomato, a great spicy mayo and fries; an excellent way to start off your Sunday.
Crisp Pumpkin & Goat
Fluffy balls of goat cheese and pumpkin with a thin crispy fried coating.
Baby Beet Salad
As close to perfect as a beet salad can get; great balance between the beets, tangerines and goat cheese.
Organic Salmon Tartar
Pretty standard. It’s nothing out of this world, but this tartar is satisfying and cleverly put together with sheep’s milk yogurt, chives and beet scented potato chips.
Colorado Leg of Lamb
A seasonal special that’s been kicking around Cafe Cluny this winter, the sliced leg of juicy lamb comes laid out over a bed of mini carrots and crushed potatoes. Real tasty.
Braised Short Ribs
Not a huge portion, but an extremely rich and filling one that hits the spot. A big chunk of seared foie gras sits on top of the beef with potato puree and roasted baby veggies.
Tuna Burger
Seared rare, what’s great about this tuna burger is that each bite comes out nice and clean, the sign of a well cooked piece of fish. Also the aioli is awesome, as are the fries. The super soft bun is just the right size and compliments the tuna well.
