Feature

The Small Print

Dim lights, farsightedness, botched laser surgery—whatever the reason, menus can be frustratingly hard to read. A couple of local restaurateurs are trying to clear things up.

By Rob Patronite & Robin Raisfeld
Published Oct 10, 2005

Photos: Carina Salvi

Blue Hill
Signature mini flashlights—a gift from chef-owner Dan Barber’s dad, who ordered a batch when he had trouble deciphering the menu himself. The card read: “To Blue Hill, for a bright future.”
75 Washington Pl., nr. Washington Sq. W.; 212-539-1776

Eleven Madison Park, the Modern, Tabla, and the other members of Danny Meyer Inc. Like loaner jackets, EyeOn reading glasses from Morgenthal Frederics are available to fashion-conscious diners in need—but only temporarily. They’re collected with the menu, lest the wearer grow too attached (not a problem with most house blazers).