The Little Owl: A Favorite of the Village and Lou Reed

If you are looking for a wonderful meal in a quaint, non-touristy locale, visit The Little Owl in the Village. My mom had read an article on the Owl and decided it was our type of spot. After purchasing winning (we scored front row seats to 33 Variations with Jane Fonda and Colin Hanks the day of the play!), we hopped on the 1 train and headed from Midtown to the Village Sunday morning for brunch. Upon arrival, the small restaurant was full, but there was only a ten minute wait. The hostess said we could wait outside on the benches under the awnings or we could 'wait right up there'. She pointed to the corner of the restaurant to indicate 'up there' and it was a two-step waiting seat, almost like a balcony window but you climbed a three-step ladder to get up there and you were looking down at everyone eating! We had to have our photo taken up there because it was so funny. There were pillows and you could order drinks while you sat...'up there'. You could squeeze three to four people up there but two sat very comfortably. We ordered drinks and waited less than ten minutes and our table was ready. Seated by the window, we were able to watch the Villagers walk their dogs or take strolls on this semi-rainy Sunday. The rain does not slow down New Yorkers! I chose the Gravy Meatball Sliders, made with beef, pork, veal and pecorino, and the Asparagus endives and vinaigrette. Nikki* had the Poached Eggs fontina sausage buns, greens and Hollandaise and the Cheddar Grits. The sliders were absolutely wonderful, that melt in your mouth flavor. The asparagus was also splendid, the endives, potatoes and scallions gave the vegetable a taste twist I had not experienced previously. Nikki was very happy with her poached eggs and cheddar grits. The atmosphere was very enjoyable and apparently, Lou Reed dines there from time to time. Another bonus! My only complaint (and I should have known or asked) was the price of soft drinks...$4 and they did charge you for refills. It is soda and just a little ridiculous. I should have ordered a shot for that price. I would have certainly had more bang for my buck. While in Norfolk, I would boycott a restaurant that charged this for a soda (I NEED a diet Coke in the morning!), it is New York and my leniency is greater. I highly recommend The Little Owl. Try to sit in the waiting area 'up there' - it is a great way to see what everyone else is eating and it might help you choose your meal. I eyed the sliders from 'up there' and knew right then that those would be my selection. Hoot-hoot over to The Little Owl.

~Alex

The Little Owl is located in the Village at 90 Bedford Street, New York, NY 10014 and serves lunch and dinner during the week and brunch and dinner on the weekends. View their menus at http://thelittleowlnyc.com/