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“Mathieu Palombino Opens a Diner for the Bowery”

Even if the food isn’t all that great, there’s something always comforting about a diner. The omelet may be runny or the burger overcooked, but you know what to expect. When a New York chef opens a diner, though, it’s a different story. Mathieu Palombino, who helped usher in the Neapolitan pizza craze at Motorino (where the pizza is truly one step away from a narcotic), has just opened a diner on the Bowery called what else but….The Bowery Diner. And no, it’s not about breakfast (they’re open Sunday through Thursday 5 p.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.).

The restaurant is in part Palombino’s homage to classic American cuisine. Yes, you’ll find hot coffee, reubens, soups and double patty burgers on the menu. But there are also items reflecting Palombino’s Belgian background with dishes like steak frites and duck confit with duck fat curly fries. For the night owls, you’ll be able to order from a late-night menu and cocktails in the 130-seat diner, which is roomy even with its burgundy booths, stainless steel panels, polished concrete floors and a full bar lined with stools. Enjoy!
 
The Bowery Diner is located at 241 Bowery Street (at Prince Street), 212-388-0052, www.bowerydiner.com.
 
— Bao Ong

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