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The little owl is another neighborly little place where the high quality of the cooking is out of all proportion to the restaurant’s unassuming size. There are ten tables in the tidy white space, and 28 chairs, and the most arresting feature of the room is the ceiling, made from antique stamped tin and painted gold. Thirteen dollars buys several plump grilled scallops served over a green, cheesy risotto mixed with fresh spinach and nuggets of lobster. These intricate little creations are the handiwork of Joey Campanaro, who used to work for Danny Abrams (the Harrison, the Red Cat) and who has perfected that chef’s uniquely pleasing American bistro style. — Adam Platt

Note

The wine list offers a nice selection of half-bottles, and the big bottles are generally well chosen and never over $100.

Brunch
Sat.–Sun., 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Catering
Fans of Joey Campanaro’s (of Kenmare fame) lauded Little Owl restaurant can enjoy his Mediterranean-influenced menu, including perennial favorites like the gravy meatball sliders, at their wedding receptions. From $275 to $300 (all-inclusive).

Ideal Meal

Crispy soft-shell crab, pork chop, warm chocolate cake.

Related Stories

New York Magazine Reviews

• Adam Platt's Full Review (7/17/06)

Best of New York Awards

• The Five Most Influential Restaurants of the Past Six Years (2011)
• Adam Platt's Pick for Best Burger (2009)

Featured In

• Adam Platt's Where to Eat 2009 (1/5/09)
• Where to Eat 2008 (1/7/08)
• Restaurant Openings: Pies-N-Thighs, The Little Owl, Fairway (5/22/06)

Recipes at the little owl

• Maria Chelada (2012)
• Meatball Sliders (2007)