Due West, located in New York City's charming West Village, has quickly become a popular spot. But what makes this restaurant stand out? This in-depth review explores Due West's menu, analyzing its offerings, highlighting customer reviews, and ultimately determining whether it lives up to the hype. We'll delve into specifics, examining everything from appetizers to desserts, and considering the overall dining experience.
Exploring the Due West Menu: A Culinary Journey
Due West's menu is designed to offer a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients, prepared with a modern twist on classic American cuisine. Let's break down the key sections:
Appetizers: A Taste of Things to Come
The appetizers at Due West are far from an afterthought. They're carefully crafted small plates designed to whet the appetite and hint at the culinary delights to come. Expect options like:
- Whipped Feta Dip: Often praised for its creamy texture and bright, herbaceous notes. Reviews frequently mention its perfect pairing with the accompanying pita bread.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: A popular choice, often described as perfectly charred with a delightful balsamic glaze.
- Roasted Carrot Dip: A vegetarian-friendly option, this dip is frequently lauded for its unique flavor profile and smooth consistency.
Many reviews highlight the portion sizes as being generous for appetizers, offering great value for the price.
Main Courses: The Heart of the Matter
The main courses at Due West are where the restaurant truly shines. They feature a diverse range of dishes, showcasing both creativity and skill in the kitchen. Standout options often include:
- Grilled Salmon: This dish is consistently mentioned in positive reviews, often praised for its perfectly cooked texture and flavorful accompaniments.
- Chicken Parm: A classic done right, Due West's chicken parmesan is frequently cited as a comforting and satisfying choice.
- Pasta Dishes: The pasta options, frequently rotating with seasonal ingredients, are often described as rich, flavorful, and perfectly al dente.
Here's a small table summarizing some common customer feedback on main courses:
| Dish | Common Positive Comments | Common Negative Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Salmon | Perfectly cooked, flavorful, great accompaniments | Occasionally mentioned as slightly overpriced |
| Chicken Parm | Comforting, satisfying, generous portion size | None frequently mentioned |
| Pasta Dishes | Flavorful, perfectly cooked pasta, fresh ingredients | Can vary depending on seasonal ingredients |
Desserts: A Sweet Ending
No meal at Due West is complete without a decadent dessert. The dessert menu offers a smaller, but carefully curated, selection:
- Chocolate Lava Cake: A classic choice, this dessert is often described as rich, warm, and intensely chocolatey.
- Seasonal Fruit Crumble: This option reflects the restaurant's commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reviews praise its comforting warmth and seasonal fruit flavors.
While the dessert menu is smaller, the quality consistently receives positive feedback.
Due West Reviews: What are Customers Saying?
Online reviews for Due West are generally very positive. Platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews showcase a high percentage of 4 and 5-star ratings. Recurring themes in positive reviews include:
- High-quality ingredients: Many reviewers emphasize the freshness and quality of the ingredients used in the dishes.
- Excellent service: The staff consistently receives praise for their attentiveness, friendliness, and helpfulness.
- Pleasant ambiance: The restaurant's cozy and inviting atmosphere is a frequently cited positive aspect.
While overwhelmingly positive, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service or slightly elevated prices. However, these are relatively rare compared to the volume of positive feedback.
Conclusion: Is Due West Worth the Hype?
Based on the menu offerings and the overwhelming positive customer reviews, Due West in the West Village appears to be a worthwhile dining destination. The emphasis on fresh ingredients, creative dishes, and excellent service seems to consistently deliver a positive dining experience. While prices might be slightly higher than some other West Village options, the overall quality and experience seem to justify the cost for many diners. If you're looking for a delightful meal in a charming setting, Due West is certainly worth considering.
