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“Alison Returns to Manhattan”

 New York restaurants had a tough time after 9/11. A good number even closed. Alison on Dominick Street was among the victims of the tough economic conditions. When you’re in demand, though, and have a reputation as a favorite hangout of many New Yorkers, a return is inevitable. For Alison Price Becker, she’s planning to return after a nine-year hiatus on January 31. 

The consummate host, Becker opened Alison on Dominick in 1989 after having success with her restaurant Alison by the Beach in the Hamptons. She’s once again working with Michael Namer and Gary Spindler of Alfa Development and chef Robert Gurvich to open Alison on Eighteen. The 117-seat space includes a 14-seat bar, a café seating 18, an 85-seat dining room on the main level and a lower level with a private room and event space. Edward Asfour and Peter Guzy of Asfour Guzy Architects created a part Parisian brasserie vibe with a relaxed vibes. The tufted banquettes, booths and chairs are made of an eggplant color leather with cherry red buttons. Romantic, right? Dark bronze sconces dot the room and chandeliers are topped with linen shades.
 
While Becker has worked with a number of well-known chefs, it’s Gurvich who sticks out. Here, he’s featuring what they describe as French-influenced American dishes, many using ingredients from local green markets and organic farms. They’ll be serving breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner. Some of the signature dishes include a grilled quail risotto with sweet potato, sage and sauce verjus. Or perhaps you’ll want to order the herb steamed mussels with crème fraiche, vermouth, parsley and grilled bread. There’s also the roasted meats done in a giant rotisserie on site. The lamb shoulder roasted and bathed in its own juices are just one of many popular dishes.

You’ll find classic cocktails and a well-edited wine list that focuses on small producers and bio-dynamic selections. Alison’s fans wouldn’t expect anything less. 

Alison Eighteen is located at 15 West 18th Street (between Fifth and Sixth Avenues), 212-366-1818, www.alisoneighteen. 

— Bao Ong

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