Nolita, a charming neighborhood nestled below NoHo, boasts a vibrant culinary scene. While known for its trendy boutiques and historic architecture, it also offers a surprising number of excellent places to enjoy a perfectly roasted chicken. This guide explores 13 of the best spots, highlighting their unique offerings and helping you find your perfect roasted chicken haven.
Finding Your Fowl: A Nolita Roasted Chicken Tour
Choosing the perfect roasted chicken can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the options, helping you decide based on your preferences (price point, ambiance, sides, etc.). We’ve included a mix of casual eateries and upscale restaurants, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Casual & Comfort: Your Everyday Roasted Chicken
These spots are perfect for a quick, delicious meal without breaking the bank. Think classic preparations, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere.
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Gemma: Known for its rustic Italian fare, Gemma offers a consistently excellent roast chicken, often served with simple yet flavorful sides. Their chicken is juicy and flavorful, and their informal atmosphere makes it a great choice for a casual dinner.
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Russ & Daughters Cafe: A Nolita institution, Russ & Daughters Cafe provides a delicious, albeit slightly pricier, roasted chicken alongside their famous bagels and smoked fish. The chicken is a great complement to their other offerings, making it an ideal spot for a unique brunch or light lunch.
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Prince Street Pizza: Okay, not primarily a chicken spot, but their occasional roasted chicken specials are legendary amongst locals. Keep an eye on their menu for surprises!
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Sadelle's: While known more for their bagels and other brunch staples, Sadelle's occasionally features a standout roast chicken on their menu, usually as part of a larger meal. Check their daily specials.
Upscale & Elegant: Roasted Chicken Reimagined
These restaurants take the humble roast chicken to another level, offering sophisticated preparations and elegant settings. Be prepared to spend a bit more for the experience.
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Via Carota: This West Village gem (a short walk from Nolita) boasts a phenomenal roast chicken, often featuring seasonal vegetables and herbs. The ambiance is charming and romantic, perfect for a special occasion.
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Lilia: Though reservations are notoriously difficult to snag, Lilia's roasted chicken is worth the effort. The preparation is innovative and the taste unforgettable. Expect a higher price point, reflecting the quality and artistry involved.
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Carbone: While a splurge, Carbone's roast chicken is often mentioned in "best of" lists. The classic preparation is executed with impeccable skill. The restaurant's ambiance is undeniably glamorous.
Hidden Gems & Unexpected Finds: Discovering Your Next Favorite
These spots may be less well-known, but their roasted chickens are anything but ordinary.
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Dimes: Dimes offers a simple yet satisfying roast chicken, often part of a larger, shareable plate. Their focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients shines through in their dish.
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Balthazar: Another slightly pricier option located just outside Nolita’s immediate borders (SoHo), Balthazar's roast chicken is a classic preparation done exceedingly well.
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La Esquina: Though predominantly a taco spot, La Esquina sometimes features a delicious, spice-infused roasted chicken on their menu. Their unique twist on a classic is worth exploring.
Beyond the Bird: Considerations When Choosing Your Nolita Roast Chicken
When selecting your perfect roasted chicken, consider:
- Budget: Prices vary significantly across these establishments.
- Ambiance: Do you want a casual, relaxed setting, or something more upscale?
- Sides: Many restaurants offer sides that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Dietary Restrictions: Check the menu for options that cater to your needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.).
A Comparative Table: Nolita's Top Roasted Chickens
| Restaurant | Style | Price Point | Ambiance | Sides | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gemma | Casual Italian | $-$$ | Relaxed | Roasted vegetables, pasta | Consistently good, great value |
| Russ & Daughters | Casual Jewish | $$ | Lively | Bagels, smoked fish | Unique combination, pricier |
| Prince Street Pizza | Casual Pizza | $ | Casual | Pizza slices | Occasional specials, check menu |
| Sadelle's | Upscale Brunch | $$ | Upscale | Various brunch items | Check daily specials |
| Via Carota | Upscale Italian | $$ | Romantic | Seasonal vegetables | Excellent quality, worth the splurge |
| Lilia | Upscale Italian | $$ | Trendy | Varies, often seasonal | Difficult reservations, highly recommended |
| Carbone | Upscale Italian | $$ | Glamorous | Varies | Classic preparation, a splurge |
| Dimes | Casual American | $ | Minimalist | Salads, sides | Fresh ingredients, simple but tasty |
| Balthazar | Upscale French | $$ | Elegant | Various | Classic preparation, SoHo location |
| La Esquina | Casual Mexican | $-$$ | Lively, vibrant | Tacos, etc. | Unique spice combinations, sometimes features |
Note: Price points are approximate and subject to change. $$ represents a very high price point.
This guide provides a starting point for your Nolita roasted chicken adventure. Remember to check menus and make reservations where necessary, especially for the more popular establishments. Happy eating!
