The New Freemans

One of my all-time favorite restaurants in NYC (and one that launched some of the biggest trends in downtown restaurants) has got to be Freemans.  It is the kind of place that never really changes, but you wouldn't want it to either.  They call it "a rugged, clandestine, colonial american tavern", I call it my own personal hideaway, where the craziness of city life evaporates leaving you feeling transported to another time and place, where bartenders are dressed up, classic cocktails are served and food is unfussy yet consistently good.

When I heard about the same people behind Freemans opening up another spot in the neighborhood called Peels, I was immediately skeptical.  How could I love this new restaurant as much as I love the first?  Well, I finally got to check it out for breakfast on Friday.  The interior is open, bright and airy with colors of sage green and charcoal and white.  It is not at all a spin-off of Freemans, although they nailed the same cozy feeling.

For breakfast they have become known for their build-a-biscuit program, which allows you a biscuit that you then get to choose toppings for (scrambled eggs, bacon, country ham, cheeses, avocado, etc.).  Genius.  If you don't believe me I think the proof is in the pictures.

Peels, 325 Bowery, (646) 602-7015