Minetta Tavern is in Greenwich Village in NYC and known for its Black Label Burger.   It was named for the  Minetta Brook which ran from 23rd Street to the Hudson River and has been a hang out for the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Eugene O’Neill and other writers.  It has the feel of a French brasserie with bench seating along the wall to accommodate small closely set small tables.   A black and white floor is opposite the tin ceiling and the walls are covered with framed photos.  The dark wood, red seats and lowered lighting make it feel even smaller than it was, but it’s by no means large, so reservations are recommended.  Don’t miss the classic neon sign that hangs over the front door either.  Service was fast and efficient- they do want to turn the tables – but I never felt rushed.  It was a very fun and tasty meal, and I’d give this a thumbs up to any NYC visitors.

Bread came without asking and it was a tasty sliced baguette and good butter.

I saw a Sticky bun on the menu and had to try it.  It was small but filled with gooey goodness and topped with toasted nuts.  The buttery pastry was exquisite and well coated with the sweet sauce.  Rich but nicely small.

The Black Label Burger is made from a selection of dry aged beef cuts and then topped with caramelized onions and served with pommes frites.  Lettuce, tomato and pickles were on the side.  It was cooked as requested, medium rare and had an amazingly deep beef flavor.  It was not the drippiest of burgers but it did have a wonderful flavor.  The fries were also a star – crisp, hot and filled with potato flavor.  Unfortunately I got into eating and didn’t get a photo of either of our main courses before we started eating.  Apologies, sometimes I get into the food too much.

Steak and egg came with a petite salade and pommes frites..  It was just one pale yolk egg but a fabulous cut of beef.  It was nicely rare and so juicy.  It was a delight to find a brunch option of this common plate with actual flavor and tender beef to boot.  The fries were good like the ones above as was the nice side salad.   A good deal for this plate and the favorite of both of us.