Quinto Quarto: This new West Village Italian restaurant opened yesterday with its exposed brick and wood beams reeking of rustic charm, and its name translating to an Italian term for offal. But beneath the calculated Old World ambiance, Quinto Quarto boasts authentic Italian cred; it's run by a trio of Milanese paisans who've had some success with restaurants back home. The wine list is all-Italian, and according to Thrillist, the locally-sourced menu includes such entrees as pollo al rosmario con patate (rosemary chicken w/ gnocchi), coniglio alla romana (wine-braised, boned, and rolled rabbit shoulder), and coda alla vaccinara, a parboiled, herb-heavy oxtail stew. Soon enough, you'll be able to savor such delicacies in the forthcoming backyard garden. 14 Bedford Street, (212) 675-9080
Clerkenwell: Named for a London district that was once that city's Little Italy, this new 40-seat homage to the "English" gastropub opened last week on the Lower East Side. The menu, obtained by Grub Street, emphasizes traditional fare like Slow-roasted belly of pork; IPA ale and beef pie; and Yorkshire toad in the hole with English sausages, cream mashed potato and gravy. Brunch began last weekend too, and includes items like eggs and soldiers; fish n’ chips; and walnut crusted chicken served with classic Waldorf salad of celery leaves, Sweet Granny smith Apples and mixed baby lettuce. Eater has photos and notes that Clerkenwell is doing a weekend late-night menu as well, with just the libations you'd expect: Boddingtons, Guiness, and Bass (and more imports on the way). 49 Clinton Street, (212) 614-3234
The Pony Bar: Neil Young has inspired a Hell's Kitchen beer bar. According to Urban Daddy, the decor is supposedly influenced by an old photo of Neil Young and features an old canoe, equestrian knickknacks, and two giant beer barrels that double as communal tables. Get a growler to go or pull up a stool for such craft beers as Captain Lawrence, Ommegang, Leviathan Imperial IPA, and Left Handranging—all on tap. To pad the stomach, Pony's also serving grub like sausages and roast beef sandwiches. We're still not really sure how all this adds up to Neil Young, but if they keep "After the Gold Rush" on the sound system, we'll roll with it. 637 10th Avenue at 45th Street, (212) 586-2707
Rites of Spring:The Frying Pan and Gowanus Yacht Club are now open for alfresco lubrication, Spuyten Duyvil boasts a newly expanded backyard, and Habana Outpost was reportedly bumping last weekend.
