146 Bowery (at Broome St.) 646-355-1840 www.bacchanalnyc.com
American. If you told me I’d experience the best New England clam chowder of my life on the Lower East Side, I’d say someone took a wrong turn on I-95. This outrageous combination of bacon, potato, gargantuan spiced croutons and chives clearly rivals Boston’s own. The branzino is steamed and savory, sharing the plate with bok choy, mushrooms, black rice, citrus-soy sauce and cilantro. As it happens, their service is as noteworthy as the food. The waitperson arrived at the table with a high wattage smile which remained on display each time she returned. Her positive energy and attitude enhanced what was already an excellent meal. If that weren’t enough, the dessert special was an inspired chocolate mousse (milk as well as dark) surrounded by happiness (a chocolate shell, raspberries and raspberry sorbet). This place isn’t just good. It’s a Yankees – Sox extra innings extravaganza.