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Smith & Mills
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Smith & Mills
7.9
A candlelit bar-and-restaurant that excels as a seafood-and-drinks hang rather than a full menu mission. It’s best when you treat it like an oyster-and-cocktail ritual and keep the order tight and classic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oysters, Martini, House seafood plates
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Moody oyster-bar energy that feels tucked away from the main flow.
Who should go: Cocktail people and oyster loyalists
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm
What to order: Oysters, martini, one seafood plate
Insider tip: Grab bar seats—best vibe per square foot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; garages are available nearby but expect higher evening rates.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but darker, polished looks fit the mood best.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—bar chatter and music add energy, but conversation is still possible, especially at a table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, shorter if you’re flexible with bar seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very short waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—small plates and sides are available, but the menu is seafood-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited—best suited for drinks with minimal food expectations.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free seafood options, but not a dedicated gluten-free menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially if the plan is drinks and oysters. The low lighting and intimate bar energy make it feel special without being stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but it’s easier if you aim for the bar or go earlier in the evening. Prime dinner hours fill up fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is an adult-focused bar-and-seafood spot with a moody vibe and limited kid-oriented options.
Best For
Better for: Oysters, martinis, and a candlelit atmosphere that feels intimate and tucked away from Tribeca’s busier rooms.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full, varied dinner menu or need strong vegetarian or kid-friendly options.
Smith & Mills
8.0
A candlelit, design-forward room that handles late-night like a grown-up bar with real food: small plates, charcuterie, and a cocktail rhythm that keeps things moving. Best when you want a polished nightcap meal without committing to a full multi-course dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcuterie plate, Steamed mussels Provençal, Little gem salad
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A late-night cocktail room with shareable plates that still feel intentional.
Who should go: Dates, solo diners, and small groups
When to visit: Late evening for the best bar-seat flow
What to order: Charcuterie, mussels, a salad to balance
Insider tip: Bar seating is the move for faster pacing and better energy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in TriBeCa is limited and competitive at night; plan on nearby paid garages within a few blocks. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—dark jeans are fine, but most guests look polished rather than casual.
Noise level: Moderate—lively bar energy, but you can comfortably hear your date or dining companion.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, shorter if you’re flexible with bar seating.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—primarily an evening and late-night destination.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, vegetable-forward small plates, and cheese boards work well.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable dishes may be adaptable, but not a strong vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Partial—charcuterie and select plates can work; best to flag needs to the server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—low lighting, refined energy, and shareable plates make it intimate without feeling stiff or overcommitted.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you aim for the bar or go later in the evening; full tables are tougher on weekends without planning ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is an adult, cocktail-forward room best suited for late nights rather than families.
Best For
Better for: A polished late-night bite with cocktails when you want atmosphere, pacing, and design—not just food.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full dinner menu, quieter conversation, or a budget-friendly late-night option.