Irving Mill - The green movement sprouts in Union Square with this seasonal American eatery, whose focus is farmer's market-friendly peppered with French and Italian influences. If you can't snag a reservation to dine in one of the beige circular banquettes scripted with author Washington Irving's name, take a seat at the 25-person zinc bar in the Tap Room up front, where walk-ins are welcome. There, choose from six American microbrews on tap (think Spaten Lager, Victory Prima Pilsner, and Victory Golden Monkey Ale) or a freshly poured specialty cocktail, such as The Harvest (rosemary vodka, pear puree, almond syrup, lemon juice). The 180-strong wine list of hand-selected French, Italian and Spanish labels can also be savored standing around an authentic mill stone, which serves as part-waiting area and part-watering hole. With Law & Order alums Benjamin Bratt and Jill Hennessey as investors, don't be surprised if former cast mate (and eternal Mr. Big) Chris Noth raises his glass right along with you—he's a regular.
