Team Thrillist and guests with Tyler Florence (Photo: Jeffrey Gurwin)

While Sandra Lee and Guy Fieri did their part to kick off the Wine & Food Festival at Chelsea Market last night, another event was happening nearby. The Bacon & Blues party hosted by Tyler Florence, the ever-genial David Blend and his gang at Thrillist went down in the High Line Room at the Standard. A few observations, after the jump. Read more »

The Mott. (Photograph by Lizz Kuehl)

Jay Cheshes takes a scathing survey of five gastro-clubs: Hotel Griffou is “strictly style over substance”; nearly all of LevantEast’s menu is “poorly executed”; the “comedy of errors” at The Gates is far from amusing; the eats are “hit-or-miss” at Ward III; and “the food was a snooze” at The Mott. [TONY] Read more »

"Million Dollar" roasted chicken at the Standard Grill. Photograph: Roxana Marroquin

The Standard Grill receives four stars from Jay Cheshes for “big, wholesome flavors at affordable prices,” served in a “warm, weathered setting.” [TONY]

The pies at Veloce Pizzeria are “delicious burnished squares—somewhere between Sullivan Street focaccia and the typical doughy Sicilian slice”–worthy of four stars. [TONY] Read more »

Water Taxi Beach Governors Island (Photo: Jeff Gurwin)

The following restaurants and bars are expected to open by July 15. Opening dates can change, so call ahead before heading out.

Lot 2 Chef Scott Bridi brings the expertise he developed as the onetime head of Gramercy Tavern’s charcuterie program to this modest Brooklyn spot. In addition to an extensive cured-meat–and-sausage menu (neck three ways comes with house-made pork and lamb coppa, as well as rillettes), Bridi will prepare a market-driven American menu with dishes featuring secondary cuts of meat, like an entrée of slow-cooked brisket, pork jowl, and lamb rib with carrots and potatoes. 687 Sixth Ave between 19th and 20th Sts, Sunset Park, Brooklyn (718-499-5623)

Read more »