Something you'll never see: the little owl with no customers. [Kalina via Eater]
Much of The Little Owl's reputation seems to rest on two knockout dishes: The Pork Chop, which I had the last time I visited; and the meatball sliders.
I was in the mood for a snack the other day, so I dropped in for an order of those balleyhooed sliders. All of the bar seats were available at 6:15 p.m., but within fifteen minutes they were all taken.
[Amateur Gourmet]In a town awash with sliders, I thought these were par for the course. These are made with beef, pork and veal, and slathered with gravy. The server asked what I thought, and I said, “They're fun.”
“They're perfect!” she replied, almost looking offended, as if merely “fun” wasn't good enough. At $10, they certainly make a fine snack.
The space remains unbelievably popular, and unbelievably cramped. They must have added a couple of tables since Kalina's photo (above) was shot: it almost looks roomy, which the little owl, with its 28 seats, is not. They now manage to fit five at the bar, and believe me, it's a squeeze.
I continue to believe, as I did before, that the little owl is slightly overrated, but it's a wonderful neighborhood restaurant. I wish I had something as good where I live.
the little owl (90 Bedford Street at Grove Street, West Village)
Food: *
Service: *
Ambiance: Cramped
Overall: *
