There are some restaurants that epitomize what makes New York so damned special. Shmoné may just be one of them. It’s not that there’s a Michelin star attached to it, or that the interiors are done up by some famed architect. However, when the food, atmosphere, people, and conversation hit that perfect note, you have yourself a New York moment.

Overview

I’ve danced on a table at HaSalon and gladly paid over $30 dollars for an avocado. I order the pitas from Miznon for a casual bite and even eat at Miznon North, which is above 14th Street. Luckily though I don’t have to stay in the nether regions of Manhattan when I visit Shmoné NYC, which is in the heart of the Village. Shmoné is the latest NYC restaurant by Chef Eyal Shani, who I think should be credited for bringing Israeli food mainstream.

Atmosphere

The fact that Shmoné NYC was probably a totally nondescript store or underwhelming restaurant in its previous incarnation shows that merit does shine through. With basic chairs and a few strung lights around a simple dining room, the Shmoné team has created a vibe for you from the moment you enter. The intimate space attributes about 1/2 of the atmosphere to the open bustling kitchen. The other half of Shmoné goes to the very attractive diners. They’re not going to win awards for their design, but it’s that effortless cool that makes Shmoné a good time.

Prime seats are at the bar, where you get a front-row look at the kitchen. The kitchen is tiny and filled with someone in every corner, but they still make it work. I was told at dinner that all the food comes out of this space, so in a lot of ways, they’re making magic. Shmoné is a good spot for a first date (as long as you have a reservation) or a hang with friends.

Food

The premise of Chef Eyal’s food is to take simple ingredients and take them to the next level. He goes the extra mile in his cooking techniques, and pairs them with spices, herbs, and special concoctions to make dishes that stand out. Shmoné NYC follows this theme, where nothing is just a simple salad. Instead, that salad has a kick of jalapeño, the sweetness of grapes, and the crispness of cucumber and radish. Same with the mashed potatoes. The preparation had green peppers finely diced and was topped with tomato seeds.

The shrimp with the best olive oil (that’s literally what they call it) has olive oil you just want to drink. The fish is all about theatrics as it comes to you flaming. It made for a somewhat drier fish than I would have liked, but it was fun, which is the point of Shmoné. The menu changes daily, so if Shmoné gets on your rotation, there will be enough variety to keep it interesting.

Service

While these are not career waitstaff like you’ll get at Michelin-starred restaurants or old-time steakhouses, they are a friendly bunch. The team is in the category of “having a good time while working at a cool restaurant.” It’s not turnkey perfection but it is genuine. Additionally, the service is what you’d expect from a fun restaurant in NYC, sans any attitude. If anything, the waitstaff’s quirkiness and fun shine through.

Overall 7.7/10. A solid place to book an easy dinner.

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FAQs

Q: Where is Shmone located?

A: 61 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

Q: What are the hours of Shmone?

A:

Q: What kind of food is Shmone?

A: Shmone serves modern Israeli cuisine, focused on fresh ingredients and inventive combinations.