Bar Great Harry has quickly become a Gowanus, NYC favorite, known for its inviting atmosphere, creative cocktails, and delicious food. This in-depth review explores the Bar Great Harry menu, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and providing you with everything you need to know before your visit. We'll dive into the ambiance, service, and overall experience to give you a complete picture of this popular establishment.
Exploring the Bar Great Harry Menu: A Culinary Journey
The Bar Great Harry menu is a carefully curated selection of small plates and larger dishes designed for sharing. It's a modern American menu with influences from around the globe, resulting in a unique and exciting dining experience. The emphasis is on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the dishes are thoughtfully prepared, showcasing both classic techniques and innovative flavor combinations.
Appetizers and Small Plates: A Taste of Something Different
The appetizer section boasts several stand-out options. The Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Calabrian Chili Aioli are a crowd-pleaser, perfectly crisp and balanced by the spicy aioli. For something lighter, the White Bean Dip with Housemade Flatbread is a flavorful and satisfying choice. However, the menu isn't without its quirks. Some dishes, like the Octopus Salad, can be hit-or-miss depending on the freshness of the ingredients.
- Standout Appetizers:
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- White Bean Dip
- Charcuterie Board (selection varies)
- Consider Before Ordering:
- Octopus Salad (freshness can be inconsistent)
Main Courses: Hearty and Satisfying
The main course selection at Bar Great Harry caters to a range of preferences. The Grilled Swordfish is a popular choice, cooked to perfection and served with seasonal vegetables. The Short Rib Pasta is rich and decadent, a perfect dish for a colder evening. However, the portion sizes can be deceivingly small for some of the main courses. For a heartier meal, consider sharing multiple dishes.
- Popular Main Courses:
- Grilled Swordfish
- Short Rib Pasta
- Roasted Chicken (check seasonal availability)
- Note: Portion sizes can be smaller than expected. Sharing is recommended.
Dessert: A Sweet Ending
The dessert menu is relatively concise but features some delightful options. The Chocolate Lava Cake is a classic, rich, and decadent. The Seasonal Fruit Tart offers a lighter alternative, showcasing fresh, local produce. The quality of desserts is consistently high, providing a sweet ending to a satisfying meal.
- Recommended Desserts:
- Chocolate Lava Cake
- Seasonal Fruit Tart
Beyond the Menu: Atmosphere and Service at Bar Great Harry
Bar Great Harry’s ambiance is a significant part of its appeal. The space is modern and stylish, with comfortable seating and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The lighting is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual dinner or a night out with friends. The service is generally attentive and friendly, although it can get a bit overwhelmed during peak hours.
Drinks: A Cocktail Lover's Paradise
Bar Great Harry boasts a fantastic cocktail menu, featuring innovative and expertly crafted drinks. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, able to recommend the perfect drink based on your preferences. Their signature cocktails are both creative and delicious, and the wine list is well-curated, offering a nice selection of both domestic and international wines.
Overall Experience: Worth the Visit?
Yes! Bar Great Harry provides a memorable dining experience. While some menu items might be inconsistent, and portion sizes could be larger for the price, the overall quality of the food, the excellent cocktail program, and the lively atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination in Gowanus. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Pro-Tip: Check their website or social media for daily specials and happy hour deals.
Case Study: A Recent Diner's Experience
"My friend and I recently dined at Bar Great Harry, and we were impressed! The Brussels sprouts were phenomenal, and the cocktails were expertly crafted. The service was a bit slow, but the atmosphere was so pleasant that we didn't mind the wait. Overall, a great experience, and we will definitely be back!" – Sarah M. (Yelp Review)
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Bar Great Harry in Gowanus, NYC, focusing on its menu, atmosphere, and service. Remember to always check the most up-to-date menu and availability on their official website before your visit.
