If you ever find yourself in ABC City, make it a point to have one of your meals (or drinks) at Lovecraft. Tucked between Avenue A and B on 3rd street, this sci-fi themed restaurant pays homage to H.P. Lovecraft. Less than a year old, the space is finding itself at home in its new hood.
Inspired by Lovecraft's imagination, little monsters adorn both floors (yes, this place has two floors) and all are hand painted and etched. The gallery wall on the main floor is dedicated to sketches of Lovecraft himself or his conjured creations. If you're there early (i.e. brunch) the wall is insta-worthy for those that are digitally obsessed.
The bottom floors are always bustling with energy from the community (in a good way). The night I attended there was a local gallery showing and another room was getting prepped for an open mic. I was also told that costume parties are pretty popular there due to its fantastical decor.
The spot recently dived head first into the food scene and nothing my friend (absolutely nothing) is left behind when it comes to taste. The American trained chef and 2009 Chopped Winner, Chris Coleman, prides himself on using the freshest ingredients and doing things the right way. When I met with him, he hinted at the possibilities of new additions and fun changes for the fall season. Um YUM!
Chesapeake Maryland Crab Cake
Lovecraft carries a full bar but let's be honest - don't come for basic drinks. Come for their vodka infusions and absinthe cocktails. Normally I stray from drinking on a work week but I had to sip their fig and sage vodka infusion - so delish, so strong, so what I needed. There are a few odd infusions on their list, but sometimes the weirdest combos taste magical.
Headed there soon? Here are a few recommendations straight from the Chef and I: Seafood Bouillabaisse, Montauk Lobster Tacos, Maryland Crab Cake, or try their Skirt Steak. Going for a boozy brunch? Then you must absolutely try their Fried Chicken & Waffles or Crab Cake Benedict. For another $15 get unlimited drinks to accompany your waffles.
I'm definitely trying their Fried Chicken & Waffles and maybe an absinthe drink (or two) when I revisit later this month. Can't wait!
Restaurant hours + tidbits:
50 Avenue B
Hours: M-T 4p-12p, F 4p-1p, Sa 11a-1a, Su 11a-12a
Happy Hour: 4p-8p | $3 off all cocktails + infusions
All images via Lovecraft Bar NYC.