Every year, thousands board the Statue Cruises ferry to New York’s iconic Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island. But what to do upon your return? We recommend a little down time with a cocktail, and something satisfying to eat. Luckily places for just such an adventure abound in the Financial District at the southern tip of Manhattan. Here are our recommendations for eateries located mere blocks from the Statue Cruises dock.
The Dead Rabbit
FIDI insiders know and love The Dead Rabbit as the epicenter of dining and drinking in the area. Considered by some (and voted by many) as the “world’s best bar," it's received numerous accolades for its inventive approach to the standard Irish pub. You won't be surprised to learn there's a deep whiskey list here, and their celebrated craft cocktails are served in teacups as a clever twist. But the food here is top-notch, too. Treat yourself to lobster deviled eggs, a chicken pot pie, or try their full Irish breakfast. It's always friendly and crowded, so prepare to make new friends. 30 Water St., 646-422-7906, deadrabbitnyc.com
Schilling
Schilling takes the tempting flavors of Austria and puts them right in front of you on the table. Chef Eduard Frauneder's Michelin-starred menu elevates day-to-night fare to a whole new level, touching bases that range from creamy spätzle to the “Impossible Burger” (read: vegetarian). The bar is no less seductive, of course, featuring such craft cocktails as the Bourbon Cupcake and classic Alpine desserts like apple strudel. The vintage ephemera decor completes their eminently Instagrammable dining room. 109 Washington St., 212-406-1200, schillingnyc.com
Luke’s Lobster
Why not keep the nautical theme of your ferry ride to Liberty Island with some terrific seafood? You can't go wrong with Luke’s Lobster, the king of lobster rolls in NYC and elsewhere (with numerous locations worldwide). Here, the fish and the shellfish are all sustainably sourced by Luke’s, ensuring that every roll they sell is fresh and flavorful. Their no-frills menu also features lobster dip, a Maine-style chowder, and a very popular menu for kids. 26 William St., 212-747-1700, lukeslobster.com
Adrienne’s Pizza Bar
Just east of Battery Park and tucked into the bustling and historic waterfront district is Adrienne's Pizza Bar. If you drop by for lunch, you’ll likely be waiting in line with the suit-and-tie clad workers of Wall Street, but that’s because the pizza is both high-quality and served in generous portions. You won't find single slices here, but rather your choice between 12-inch round or square pies (which we consider a must-order). Take your pizza to the patio seats some of the best people watching in the area. 54 Stone St., 212-248-3838, adriennespizzabarnyc.com
Fraunces Tavern
Keep with your patriotic theme and hang out where Washington did himself. Fraunces Tavern's history pre-dates the American revolution, as it’s been in operation since 1762. Here you'll find pub such fare as chicken pot pie and a Gaelic Burger served at brunch, lunch, and dinner. But there are some global additions, too, including flatbreads, pintxos, and pastas. To find out more about Fraunces Tavern, you can also visit the on-site museum after your meal. 54 Pearl St., 212-968-1776, frauncestavern.com/restaurant
Bombay’s Indian Restaurant
Mmmm. Delicious meets affordable at Bombay’s Indian Restaurant. While some swear by their clam chowder and oyster crackers (which we love, too), others look to Mulligatawny Soup and naan to ward off a chilly afternoon. Same idea; vastly different flavors. Stop in for their tikka masala (or the vindaloo, if you can handle the heat), and vegetarian options like palak paneer. Grab a mango lassi to go for a sweet treat as you savor the rest of your day. 60 Pearl St., 212-742-2222, bombayny.com
