Overview
There are some restaurants that epitomize what makes New York City effortlessly cool, and Justine’s on Hudson is one of them. This is an elevated neighborhood restaurant that has all the components of authenticity – the service is kind, food is solid and decor beautifully done. Its superpower though is its wine list, which is refreshing nowadays when most restaurants can’t get you a decent wine by the glass. This is the review.
Atmosphere
The first thing you notice when you walk into Justine’s is the buzz. The dining room and bar, which is a perfect spot to grab a bite, are consistently packed until at least 9pm. It’s a small spot – maybe just enough for 40 people, but the energy level is high. Decor isn’t over the top nor is it bare bones; it’s sleek yet warm, and designed with a high level of taste. I’m not just saying that either, because their Soho House Murano chandelier is the same one that’s in my home. Justine’s on Hudson is the perfect date night, eat at the bar solo or get together with friends spot.
Food + Wine
We normally don’t wax poetic about wine lists because I find them pretty standard in NYC. But Justine’s stands out. The wines by the glass include a white Burgundy and a top Bordeaux which already makes their list better than 90% of wine lists in NYC. French is clearly their wheelhouse. There’s also good value on the wines by the bottle list, where you can get a solid bottle for around the $100 mark. When you want to splurge, there’s even good value in the higher end old world wines.
The reviews on the food are that it’s even better than the wine, but I respectfully disagree. I found everything we ate unremarkable is the best sense, where I could see myself returning for an everyday decent, healthy-ish predictable meal, and great wine. I’m not going to crave any of the dishes I had, but would certainly come back. There was a a good, clean fluke crudo which we paired with their mad rose salad with manouri, snap peas and and melon. It all sounds fancier than it was and we enjoyed. Not bowled over like other reviews of the food, but very nice.
Service
This is one of those rare places in NYC that’s in it for the love of the game. Yes they’re running a business and they want it to be successful. But Justine’s on Hudson is probably not what’s supporting the Rosenthal family. Neal Rosenthal is often in residence for what’s clearly a passion project. He circulates amongst all the guests and makes a point to say hello and hat up those tables that are open to it. The staff are also the loveliest people, all who have their heart in being the best elegant neighborhood restaurant in the West Village. What I especially liked is that people kept it real. The team here isn’t overly polished robotic Michelin-level staff, but instead genuine people who want all guests to have a good time.
Overall: 7.8/10
I would come back in a heartbeat for an easy, low-key night anytime.
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FAQs
Q: What are Justine’s on Hudson’s hours of operation?
A: Justine’s on Hudson’s hours of operation are as follows:
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Q: What kind of food does Justine’s on Hudson serve?
A: Justine’s on Hudson is a wine bar, but they have a full menu of American-inspired comfort foods like roast chicken and charred beef short rib.
Q: Is Justine’s on Hudson good for families?
A: Justine’s on Hudson is a better fit for date night and grown-up groups of friends. Not that they won’t welcome your kids, but there are better options for families.
