Upon entering Commerce the urge to start drinking immediately fell over me. Probably because the last time I was in this space it was the legendary NYC watering hole Grange Hall. Plus, maneuvering through the labyrinth of these West Village streets will drive even those blessed with a keen sense of direction to head straight for the bar. Commerce was warm and welcoming; we were seated within ten minutes and found the service to be spot on. The dark walnut tables, cozy throwback booths, and murals decorating the walls work to restore this classic venue. Upscale American comfort food plays very well off the decor and prompts an obvious comparison to a less hip, more authentic, west side Freeman’s.
Five Points should have been one of the first reviews up on Immaculate Infatuation. The fact that it had to wait until slot #126 is completely our bad. It’s one of the most reliable and universally likeable restaurants we’ve been to, coming through in the clutch time after time. Need the ultimate place to take your mom when she comes into town? This is it. How about a centrally located spot for a business dinner downtown? Check. Date night? Absolutely. Better yet, make a day of it. Play hooky from work with your current love interest, get a massage at Great Jones Spa next door and follow that up with lunch. Now that’s the start to a quality day. Although it’s not in the food rundown below, brunch at Five Points is top notch.
Not only is their menu updated seasonally, the entire restaurant goes through a transformation. Everything from their drink menu to the decor changes with the seasons. Personally, autumn is my favorite time to come here with their leaf filled branches, strategically placed pumpkins and gourds, apple cider drinks, pork chops, sweet potato mash and pumpkin desserts.
Giveaway: Dinner On Us
