James
(718) 942-4255
605 Carlton Ave
New York,
NY
11238
40.6789
-73.9716
Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
What People Are Saying About James
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
In an old-world Brooklyn brownstone, husband-and-wife team Bryan Calvert and Deborah Williamson have created a resolutely New American eatery kitted out with white-brick walls, wide windows and a long wooden bar behind which barkeeps pour classic cocktails. But the lure for locals and curious Manhattanites are the innovative small plates, such as seared diver scallops with watercress puree and crispy sweetbreads swimming in rhubarb-honey glaze, served alongside sautéed skate and a great, grass-fed burger smothered by a Cotswold cheese blanket.
Hits: You'll relish the delicious grub, superb service and potent, balanced cocktails at a fraction of the price you'd pay across the East River.
Misses: Order carefully and watch how many drinks you imbibe, because the small plates and sips quickly add up to a huge bill. Also, it's nearly noisy enough to require earplugs.
User Reviews
jorgiegirl
May 20, 2009
Beautiful space tasteful decor...great selection and wine choices..lovely owner, overall wonderful experience and would certainly go again and again...YAY...I really loved this place and I am a picky restaurant gal
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courton
November 17, 2008
I live in NYC but James is my new favorite restaurant. I went there after hearing how great it was from some of my friends and it was the best dining experience I have had in a long time. The whole vibe was incredible. We sat at the bar for a few minutes and had great cocktails served by a very cool and welcoming bartender. The ambiance is perfect - great lighting, music and decor. We ordered a few appetizers, entrees and desserts and loved every single thing they brought to the table. The food really was fantastic and the staff was warm and helpful. I would highly recommend James!
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awdixon
November 08, 2008
I had heard so many good things about this restaurant and was very excited to go. I love supporting small restaurants especially in Brooklyn and in this economy. However, I was slightly disappointed in James. The meal started off on the right note. I ordered a gin fizz which was very tasty and started me off in a very good mood. Then, I had the prawn appetizer which was under-seasoned and the plating was under-whelming. My dining companion had the sweetbreads which was very tasty. Next was the ravioli which was completely devoid of salt and there is no coming back from that. The burger was also under-seasoned and perhaps too thick for the brioche that became mush underneath it. The french fries were surprisingly perfect. My dessert order was wrong but the service quickly and graciously amended that. NOW the grilled lemon pound cake and the ricotta beignets are worth the price of admission alone. I've never had a pound cake quite like this one. The cake was dense, the flavor was bright and oddly refreshing (and it is grliled). As far as the appetiizers and entrees--I'm hoping that they were just having an off night (I'm convinced of it) because I plan to return soon and give it another shot.
read full reviewThe Details on James
Know Before You Go:
Reservations are only accepted for parties of 6 or more.
When to Go:
The restaurant might close at 11pm, but the bar stays open until midnight, so consider stopping by for a nightcap.
What to Drink:
Since the bartenders shine nearly as brightly as the chefs, you'll want to sip the rye-driven James' Revenge, a fresh-mint Ginger Fizz or the fizzy Black Velvet concocted with dark ale and champagne.
Fun Facts:
Before James arrived, this spot housed neighborhood fave Restaurant Sorrel; before that, a bodega.
When to Go:
Arrive early if you care to converse with your dining partner. After 7pm the noise level ratchets up to a dull roar.
What to Drink:
Since the bartenders shine nearly as brightly as the chefs, you'll want to sip the rye-driven James' Revenge, a fresh-mint Ginger Fizz or the fizzy Black Velvet concocted with dark ale and champagne.
Fun Facts:
Before James arrived, this spot housed neighborhood fave Restaurant Sorrel; before that, a bodega.
When to Go:
Arrive early if you care to converse with your dining partner. After 7pm the noise level ratchets up to a dull roar.
