Pier A: the best view and the worst food.

Ok, I won’t be so dramatic. It wasn’t all bad. The Fish and Chips were very nice. Crispy and not too oily or soggy and the fish was perfectly cooked. No complaints. Oh, well actually, one complaint. The fries were cold. Yet still very tasty.

The hummus was solid (not literally) and I technically had no real complaints with the Tuna Tartare (once we added a generous portion of salt).

The salad was dull and uninspired. Are restaurants still dumping pre-mixed bags of wilted “mixed greens” on a plate, adding a few crumbles of miscellaneous cheese and sneezing a scant amount of store bought dressing atop and actually selling it? Apparently so.

I guess the only real horrendous dish served to us was the Manhattan Clam Chowder.

Now, when you think of clam chowder, most people think (and prefer) the rich and creamy New England version. Does anyone actually like that red, thin and flavorless Manhattan crap? It reminds me of the ocean water in a shark attack movie. When the shark has just bit into it’s victim, and the water has turned that red murky color.

Not only was it gross but it was also luke warm. Actually, it was whatever the word is for when something is colder than luke warm. It was colder than luke warm. It was luke cold.

Regardless, we had to send it back. They kindly gave us the hummus for free, in it’s place. The hummus was served warmer than the chowder had been, funny enough.

That being said, I still loved this place.

Outside, on the picnic benches, there is a lively and festive atmosphere. The views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty were awe inspiring. The reggae sounds of one of the Marley’s wafting in the breeze. The beer is cold and the On Tap “Dark and Stormys” are quite tasty.

Overall, this is the perfect place for a summertime drink with an incredible view. Don’t come expecting a mind blowing meal. Stomach churning, perhaps. If they make you order food, be sure to stay FAR away from the shark attack chowder. You’ll wish a shark had bitten off your hand before you had a chance to point out the chowder on the menu to the waitress.

22 Battery Pl
New York, NY 10004
(212) 785-0153
piera.com

Best View – Worst Food (well, mostly)

HUMMUS DIP $10
Smoked Paprika, Toasted Pita

Manhattan Clam Chowder – $10

MIXED GREEN SALAD $10
Shaved Veggies, Balsamic Dressing

TUNA TARTARE $18
Avocado, Cucumber, Cilantro

FISH AND CHIPS $18
with French Fries and Coleslaw