An Austrian Gem in the East Village



Pickled vegetables

What big eyes you'll have at Edi & the Wolf, an Austrian oasis in the heart of Alphabet City. Open for about six months, the word of mouth has been consistently positive. I can see why.

Austrian executive chefs Eduard (aka 'Edi') Frauneder and Wolfgang 'the Wolf' Ban have created a welcoming and casually chic eatery. Serving rustic Austrian cuisine, they pay homage to the local wine taverns - or 'heurigen' - popular in their native land.

Artfully designed to mimic a rustic farmhouse, its evening diners are bathed in soft, flattering light. The crowd is noticeably grownup, more West Village than East, and even more European. A long communal center table keeps the mood convivial. 



Baby back ribs

Start with a half litre glass of Steigl lager ($7 bargain) and an order of pickles. Not your ordinary pickles, but delicate wisps of root veggies marinated in brine. The menu is eclectic but inviting. The glazed baby back ribs ($13) are tasty.

So is the classic wiener schnitzel ($19) made with heritage pig. My order was a little dry, but the two zippy side salads and tart lingonberry brightened up the flavor. Definitely ask for an order of Brussels sprouts, sauteed with thick chunks of bacon.

Wiener schnitzel

Stick around for an after dinner drink at the cozy and stylish copper bar. It's a good opportunity to marvel at the interior design, especially the inventive 40-ft rope-cum-chandelier salvaged from an old church.

Weekend brunch service just began and offers great value with a bread basket, fresh juice and coffee served with each $14 entree. And be on the lookout for the outdoor seating currently under construction.

102 Ave C (near 7th)

212 598 1040

Mon - Sun, 5pm - 2am

Brunch served Sat - Sun, 11am - 3:30 pm