The Queen of Nolita

“What’s in a name?” Shakespeare once asked.

Sam Martinez and Jeff Mancini, the owners of recently-opened Elizabeth, would say everything. Their restaurant, located in the former Rialto space in NoLIta evokes the charm of its predecessor (also owned by Martinez), but was designed to better reflect the vibrant atmosphere of the eponymous street it inhabits.

“The concept is a modern take on a classic English Gentleman’s Club,” explains Mancini of Elizabeth’s decor. “It blends classic details—from space to food and service, but blended with a fun, irreverent side that captures the downtown scene and the street we named it after.” Indeed, the restaurant marries a variety of styles from punk-rock inspired to estate chic, but champions an overall spirit of bonhomie.

The restaurant’s small plates menu, expertly prepared by chef Ryan Grant (formerly of Alain Ducasse, Jean Georges and Country) features contemporary, seasonal items like Watermelon Salad with Feta, Olives and Mache, and Poached Duck Egg with Corn, Chorizo, and Almonds, while desserts like the Rice Crispy Treats with Peanut Butter Fondue and Marshmallow were designed to evoke nostalgic memories of childhood. Menus can also be customized for special events, and, of course, celebrations must be fêted with innovative cocktails including the Midnight Tea (Earl Grey-infused Plymouth Gin, strawberry, lemon, and pink peppercorns).

Bad weather posing a threat to your party plans? Have no fear - a retractable roof over the restaurant’s scenic garden makes Elizabeth an ideal spot for year-round entertaining. This space (which includes private bar service) opens up into the Card Room and can accommodate 80 guests for cocktails or 75 for a seated dinner (food can be served either family-style or buffet). The entire restaurant can also be rented for up to 150 guests for cocktails or 100 guests for a seated event, and prices vary according to time and day of the week. Elizabeth also offers a prix-fixe dinner option starting at $55 per person for three courses for parties of 10 or more.

Elizabeth is located at 265 Elizabeth Street, between Houston and Prince Streets. For reservations, call 212-334-2426 or email info@elizabethny.com.

Lauren Shockey is a food writer who has contributed to publications including The New York Times Magazine, Gastronomica, Brides and ELLEgirl.