Dame

- 87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

In a city where dining is a competitive sport, certain restaurants rise above the noise to become true destinations. Dame, a celebrated English seafood restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village, is one of those places. It is a cozy and intimate space that has garnered a reputation for serving some of the best seafood in New York, with a particular focus on elevated British classics. More than just a meal, dining at Dame is an experience in itself—a blend of sophisticated flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a sought-after reservation that makes every visit feel like a special occasion.

This article serves as your comprehensive guide to Dame, providing an in-depth look at what makes it such a talked-about spot. We will explore its prime location on MacDougal Street, its refined menu, and the unique features that have made it a favorite among discerning diners. We will also delve into the famous dishes that have earned Dame a loyal following, from their legendary fish and chips to their perfectly crafted small plates. The restaurant's women-owned status and commitment to a high-quality, focused menu are just a few of the reasons why it continues to stand out.

With a menu that changes to highlight seasonal ingredients and a dining room that exudes a romantic and trendy ambiance, Dame is a perfect choice for a memorable dinner in the city. Its popularity means that reservations are essential, but the delicious food, great wine, and exceptional cocktails are well worth the effort. Let’s take a closer look at this West Village gem and discover why it is so much more than just a seafood restaurant.

Dame is located at 87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA, placing it in one of the most vibrant and historic neighborhoods in Manhattan. MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village is famous for its lively atmosphere, lined with a mix of small shops, historic cafes, and a bustling nightlife. The restaurant's position on this iconic street makes it a destination for locals and tourists alike who are exploring the area's rich cultural scene.

Due to its central location, Dame is easily accessible by public transportation. The West 4th Street – Washington Square station is just a short walk away, offering service from the A, C, E, B, D, F, and M subway lines. This makes it convenient for guests coming from various parts of the city. While the neighborhood can be busy, the restaurant’s cozy and tucked-away feel provides a nice contrast to the energetic street outside. Dame also offers outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the beautiful streetscape during warmer months. The intimate size of the restaurant means that securing a reservation is key, but the experience of dining in this prime location is a major part of its appeal.

• Dine-in: Dame provides a full-service, upscale dine-in experience. The seating is limited, with tables and a counter space in front of the open kitchen, which adds to the intimate and exclusive atmosphere.

• Reservations: Given its small size and immense popularity, reservations are not just recommended, they are often required. New reservations are released on platforms like Resy in advance, and it is a common practice to set a "notify me" alert to secure a spot.

• Table Service: The restaurant offers attentive table service, with staff known for being knowledgeable and cordial. The pacing of the meal is often highlighted as being perfect, allowing diners to fully enjoy each course.

• Dinner: Dame focuses exclusively on dinner service, with a menu that is designed to be shared. The small plates are perfect for sampling a variety of dishes, and the larger entrees offer a satisfying main course.

• Outdoor Seating: During favorable weather, Dame provides outdoor seating, which is a popular option for diners who want to soak up the West Village atmosphere while enjoying their meal.

• Women-Owned Business: Dame proudly identifies as a women-owned business, which contributes to its unique and welcoming identity in the New York dining scene.

• Exceptional Fish & Chips: The fish and chips at Dame have achieved legendary status and are often cited as being among the best in the city. The dish features a large piece of firm white fish with a light, crispy batter and is considered a must-try.

• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major highlight. The space is small and cozy, with low lighting and a trendy, upscale feel that makes it perfect for a romantic date night or a special occasion.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The beverage program is just as celebrated as the food. Dame offers a fantastic selection of cocktails and a curated wine list that perfectly complements the seafood-heavy menu.

• Seasonal and Creative Menu: The menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal ingredients and the chef's creativity. This ensures that even regulars can find something new and exciting to try on every visit.

• Small Plates: A key feature of the menu is its focus on small plates, which are perfect for sharing and allow diners to taste a wide range of the restaurant's offerings.

Address: 87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (929) 367-7370

When you choose to dine at Dame, you are choosing an experience defined by quality, intimacy, and a genuine passion for food. While some might find the portion sizes of certain dishes to be on the smaller side, the quality of every item on the menu is consistently high, making each bite truly worth it.

The most famous and arguably most worthwhile choice is their signature fish and chips. This dish, which put the restaurant on the map, is described as having a lacy, crunchy batter and a tender, flaky fish inside. It is a perfect representation of Dame's commitment to elevating classic comfort food. Another essential order is the grilled oysters with green chartreuse hollandaise. Reviewers consistently praise these as being some of the best oysters they've ever had, and the unique hollandaise sauce makes them a truly memorable appetizer.

For those looking to explore the menu, the squid and scallion skewers are also a highly recommended small plate, often praised for their perfect texture and delicious flavor. The dessert options, such as the vanilla posset with poached pears and meringue or the sticky toffee pudding, provide a perfect conclusion to the meal. Beyond the specific dishes, what's truly worth choosing is the overall atmosphere and service. The combination of a cozy, romantic space and a team that is genuinely invested in your dining experience makes Dame a destination that feels both special and deeply personal. It's a place where the food is incredible, the drinks are perfectly paired, and the ambiance makes you feel like you're in on one of New York City's best-kept secrets.

Dame

87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA