I wholeheartedly believe there could never be too many raw seafood bars in this city so I was thrilled when Grand Army opened within walking distance of my home. A simple offering of oysters and sparkling wine would have been more than enough to draw me in, but that would be underestimating the team behind the new Boerum Hill joint which comes from such tasteful places as Rucola, Mile End, and wd~50.
The long, vintage bar is front and center and tells you this is primarily a drinking establishment. You’ll come here first for the expertly crafted and sometimes wild cocktails, tropical ingredients bringing a hip new spin on the classics, and for the splendid wine list.
Next, you’ll notice platters filled with ice and bivalves emerging from the kitchen, way too pretty for your regular bar, and you’ll have no choice but to order them. Oysters, clams, claws…simple and stunning, with the coolest tincture-style droppers containing the fun dipping sauces (think the usual mignonette and add a ‘jerk’, ‘ponzu’, ‘lemon-lime’, ‘thai’, and so on).
Daily selection of oysters
Littleneck clams with Thai chilis, cilantro and garlic
There’s more to love on the light menu if you want to try some serious bar food before getting dinner in the area, as a late night snack, or for brunch on the weekend like we did. The small plates are all impeccably straightforward and pack a punch in terms of flavor and satisfaction. The few ‘fancy toasts’ are the way to go here as an economical and delicious bar snack, and the Tortilla Española has that perfect saltiness to go along with the libations on offer.
Ricotta toast with tomato jam and artichokes
Tortilla Española with potatoes and smoked littleneck clams
Soft scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, eggplant and caviar
Grand Army is looking to become the neighborhood’s go-to bar and I wouldn’t be surprised it’s already up there. With great entertainment a few blocks away from BAM and surrounding theaters, it’s a much needed addition for both locals and visitors alike and one I’ll be visiting regularly for sure!
Grand Army Bar
336 State St,
New York, NY 11217
Tel: (718) 422-7867
Map
