The Bounty
131 Greenpoint Ave.
(between Franklin and Manhattan)
Greenpoint
347-689-3325
What it is: A New American, laid-back version of a high-end French restaurant with a concentration in seafood. The Bounty’s partners and staff primarily come from The Drink with experience at other notable places, each specializing in his or her own fine dining craft.
Why we love it: The Bounty boasts a raw bar of “responsibly sourced North Atlantic seafood,” serves up classic cocktails crafted with in-house syrups and freshly squeezed juices and, of course, offers a nice selection of craft brews that are locally sourced when possible but also include a handful of out-of-town bottles.
Who to bring: The restaurant delicately balances casual and classy, so try it out for a first date, rekindling with an old friend or just meeting someone who appreciates a serious approach to cocktails and cuisine but also goes for a local spot with a friendly atmosphere.
What to order: Make your selection from the expertly shucked East Coast oysters, marinated mussels in escabeche or beet salad to start. If seafood isn’t your thing, The Bounty Burger, served on a house-baked roll and side of Eric Mann’s house made tomato jam, is a must-try. If you’re just here for drinks, try one of Bounty’s original, homemade cocktails or grab a Peekskill while it’s still available.
Fun fact: Owner Collison conceived his maritime vision for the space with inspiration from classic films, including the restaurant’s namesake, Mutiny on the Bounty, and the sci-fi, expressionist Dark City. In addition to floors made of recycled rubber tires, vintage whiskey barrels serving as table stands and other rustic flourishes, the back bar is made to look like a ship toppling over, with old furniture anchored to the walls and a 50-foot sail draped across the ceiling.—Cat Wolinski