The Upper East Side has been clawing its way out from the scourge of Dorrian's and its ilk, thanks in part to new cocktails bars like The Gilroy, which brought a touch of bespoke class to the neighborhood last year. Now the dynamic duo of Josh Mazza and Steve Laycock are attempting to strike gold twice, opening up new restaurant Seamstress on East 75th Street last night. If you're wondering about that name, look to the boutique at the front, where they're selling straight razors, leather goods and the like.
Farther back, it doesn't look so much like a place to manufacture clothing as it does a set piece from Game of Thrones. Metal chandeliers illuminate leather booths and ornate chairs and red velvet draping, though we're a far cry from anything hokey or Medieval Times-like. But you just try to deny that's Stannis's war table right there in the middle—though really it's a custom-made communal table. All that's missing is the Iron Throne.
The Mutton Burger ($18), Savory Porridge ($14) and braised Pork Shank ($32) created by Will Horowitz and Consulting Chef Jonathan Botta are good stick-to-your-ribs dishes for the season; the smoked and fried Yardbird ($18) with chili garlic honey has also been an early favorite. Dead Rabbit alum Pamela Wiznitzer created the cocktail program, so you're in good hands whether opting for one of the 50 American classic cocktails or one of her own creations like the Tabletop, made with Roca Reposado, thyme elixir, lime, celery soda and salt.
339 East 75th Street, (212) 288-8033; website
