The theme this week is American; and Jack & Charlie’s, in the West Village, is as American as it gets. And we don’t mean that in An American in Paris context; we’re talking classic comfort dishes, taken to the next level. Knishes with caviar anyone?

Overview

Over the past twenty years, there have been several restaurants in the 118 Greenwich space. We’re dating ourselves, but we remember when Bruxelles was in residence. With the predecessors though, something always seemed missing. The decor wasn’t really tied together. The food was often unmemorable. Service lacked passion. But with its prime location in the West Village, there was always potential. Enter Jack & Charlie’s No. 118, a New American restaurant that opened at the end of 2021. With a packed dining room each night, this seems to be a new neighborhood favorite.

Atmosphere

Jack & Charlie’s is a swanky yet casual supper club. We liken it to the Polo Bar of the West Village (they even have those gosh-darned decadent popovers to start the meal). But in this place, you’re just as comfortable rocking a pocket square and dinner jacket as you are in jeans and sneakers. The space is beautifully decorated in old-school green leather banquettes and rich brocade walls. One of the highlights is a new Oyster Bar, which could have been dead space. Instead, it’s an inviting-looking area that’s perfect for people-watching, conversation, and raw seafood.

The dining room is  busy and lively. In a city where you mostly try a restaurant once and never return, Jack & Charlie’s strives to be your go-to. The space is well-designed. Besides the Oyster Bar, the front bar is a nice spot to grab a pre-dinner drink or even to stop by just for a nightcap on the way home.

Food

While Jack & Charlie’s has multiple virtues, the strongest is the food. Cuisine stays true to American, but elevates old favorites. There’s pretzel bites and a potato knish — but with the caviar kicker, the kitchen staff takes it to the next level. Black truffle toast and shepherd’s pie croquettes showcase the creativity of the menu. There are over 30 items to choose from on any given night, and every one of them is pure comfort. The predecessor of Jack & Charlie’s was Rosso Pomodoro, so they inherited a wood-burning oven. As also evidenced by the openings of New American restaurants like Sweet Briar and Ci Siamo, cooking with open fire is all the rage. And yes, it has a big influence on the food that the kitchen churns out, imparting smokey flavors to several dishes.

There are some real showstoppers on the menu, like the Tomahawk steak that weighs in at an impressive 40 ounces. There’s also prime rib, one of those dishes that just sings old-school supper club. Yes, Jack & Charlie’s shines when it comes to meat. There’s even a meatloaf for people who don’t like meatloaf; this rendition is made with duck and doused in a fig jus.

This isn’t an Italian restaurant, but fresh pastas also shine. The excellent wild mushroom agnolotti comes with every meal. With so many good options that are unabashed crowd pleasers, you should come hungry. The food is just so well executed that it’s worth breaking the diet.

The wine list here is especially notable. Notwithstanding its American focus, Jack & Charlie’s offers a great selection of French wines. For a memorable start to the meal, order up a classic cocktail, which the bartenders are likely to serve with one surprising twist or another.

Service

The team operates like everyone really wants to be there and working with each other is the highlight of their day. It gave us the warm and fuzzies. Mercifully, there’s no attitude whatsoever, which is unusual for a pretty fancy spot that’s still hot months after its opening. The wait staff know their stuff, so lean on them for recommendations. With any luck, Jack & Charlie’s will only continue to get better as you graduate to a regular.

Overall 8.99/10

Welcome to your favorite new neighborhood spot at West Village in New York City!

FAQs

Q: What makes Jack & Charlie’s noteworthy?

A: From its charming and inviting atmosphere to its elevated approach to classic American dishes, Jack & Charlie’s has the power to draw you in for multiple visits to experience all it has to offer.

Q: Does it serve brunch?

A: Jack & Charlie’s serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11a.m.-3p.m.

Q: What is the rating of Jack & Charlie’s as per Galavante?

A: Galavante rates this restaurant 8.99/10. It is the new hot spot in the West Village that you all need to visit.

Jack & Charlie’s No. 118 Info