NYC Restaurant crowned best New Eatery in the US: Here's what makes it special
A Wine Bar and Bistro restaurant has been crowned the best new eatery in the US. Discover what makes it stand out and why it’s a top dining destination.
New York City, renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, has once again claimed the spotlight, with one of its restaurants being named the best new eatery in the US. This accolade highlights the city’s ability to deliver unique dining experiences that resonate with food enthusiasts nationwide.
The award-winning restaurant combines innovative cuisine with a distinctive atmosphere, capturing the essence of what makes NYC a global dining destination. Here's a closer look at what sets this establishment apart and why it’s earning praise from critics and diners alike.
What is the name of the Award-Winning NYC Restaurant?
The prestigious title of Best New Restaurant in the US was awarded to Tootles & French in Astoria, Queens in USA Today's 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards.
Whether it's a creative take on a New York classic like the chopped cheese, Moroccan shrimp seasoned with a blend of 25 spices, or pesto burrata paired with freshly made pasta, Tootles & French, located on Ditmars Boulevard, is quickly making a name for itself.
"Everything is either made in-house, except for the charcuterie, which we import. Our bread comes from a local bakery just down the street, and our meat is sourced from local butchers. We aim to do as much as possible within the community or in-house," explained co-owner Chad Goldsmith.
As for cocktails and wine, the menu steers clear of mass-produced options. Every beverage offered is crafted using small-batch or family-origin recipes, ensuring a unique and high-quality experience for patrons.
The wine bar and restaurant which boasts being “by Astorians for Astorians” was opened by Chad Goldsmith just over a year ago. Photo: New York Post.
Goldsmith, a lifelong New Yorker who has lived the last 10 years in Astoria, opened the bar in April 2023. The wine lover went to school for culinary management and has always dreamed of opening up his own bar.
“When I was a kid, I thought bars were a giant chemistry set. I was one of those kids. Turns out they really are,” Goldsmith said.
Owner of the NYC Restaurant thanks the audience for his award
All the dedication and effort are paying off. Last week, USA Today honored Tootles & French as the best new restaurant in the country. The recognition came after a panel of experts nominated 20 establishments, and readers were given a month to cast their votes for the top spot.
“It’s incredible. It’s incredible,” said co-owner Chad Goldsmith, expressing his gratitude.
A modest Goldsmith admits he doesn’t know who nominated the restaurant, but is deeply thankful to the local community for rallying together and voting Astoria into the national spotlight.
“It’s so important for the entire neighborhood to gain national recognition,” Goldsmith said. “It’s about building the community … welcoming people we know and don’t know and introducing them to what we’ve created.”
Running a new restaurant has had its challenges, but Goldsmith approaches each day with enthusiasm, bringing fresh ideas to innovate and make the business stand out.
“It’s been a wild journey. We started as a bar, then transitioned into a restaurant, and now we even host wine and cocktail classes in the back. Winemakers fly in to hold wine pairings almost monthly,” Goldsmith explained. “If you can imagine it, we’re probably trying it.”
Tootles & French also hosts comedy shows on weekends, live music during Sunday brunch, and offers an enticing happy hour menu.
“Every day is a new adventure for us, and we hope to share that excitement with everyone who walks through our doors. We feel like we’re succeeding,” Goldsmith said.
Ultimately, Goldsmith hopes these efforts will help turn Tootles & French into a household name.