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Runner & Stone
Master Critic Review
Runner & Stone
8.3
Runner & Stone is a bakery-restaurant and bar in Gowanus where everything from the breads to the pastas is made in-house with local grains, dairy, and market produce. By day it runs as a counter-service café for pastries, sandwiches, and salads; at night it shifts into a cozy farm-to-table dining room built around seasonal vegetables, house-prepared meats, and handmade pasta.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brown Butter Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie, Grain Salad with local spelt berries and roasted vegetables, House-extruded ziti with seasonal sauce
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A true grain-to-plate bakery and farm-to-table restaurant using local flours, produce, and house-made everything.
Who should go: Carb lovers chasing serious bread and seasonal plates.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or early dinner before it fills up.
What to order: Breakfast sandwich, grain salad, house-extruded ziti.
Insider tip: Grab a loaf and a few pastries on your way out—breads often sell out by evening.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable on weeknights but tight during weekend brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; daytime café crowd skews relaxed, evenings lean neat-casual.
Noise level: Moderate; daytime is easy for conversation, evenings can get lively but still talkable.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes for walk-ins; the small dining room can fill early.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even at peak hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—seasonal veggie plates, salads, and pastas are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—usually 1–2 composed dishes plus some sides, depending on the daily menu.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—some salads and entrées work, but much of the menu centers on breads and pasta.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's cozy, intimate, and relaxed without feeling formal. Good for a low-pressure date where food quality matters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are common, especially early evening or later in the night. Expect short waits on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids; daytime counter service works well, but evenings are quieter and better suited for well-behaved children.
Best For
Better for: Exceptional house-made breads and pastas, plus a cozy, low-key atmosphere that’s rare in the neighborhood.
Skip if: You need extensive vegan or gluten-free choices, or you're seeking a more upscale, full-service dining experience.