Lunch for Two: Japanese restaurant group Haru, opened a new location in December 2007, in a triangular building just off Wall Street. The sushi spot offers a spacious venue with a Shinto temple-inspired design. Booths lining the side of the main dining room provide a little privacy; those seeking a quieter setting can opt for one of the two 15-seat private rooms.
Drinks for Four: Inside the Duane Street Hotel is ’Beca, a lobby-level bar and eatery that looks out onto the busy streets of TriBeCa. The long and slightly narrow 40-seat space opened in January 2008 and has a small lounge section in one corner that’s good for groups. ’Beca serves a selection of small plates as well as wine and beer.
Private Room for 20: Chef Marc Forgione opened his first restaurant in July. Decorated with vintage cookbooks, aged copper pots, custom glass lanterns suspended from elevator cables, and reclaimed wood, Forge is a comfortable spot serving Forgione’s modern interpretation of seasonal American dishes. The 55-seat venue has a patio for 20 in the warmer months and a private room on the lower level.
Cocktails for 100: The two-story Wall Street Burger Shoppe, opened in March 2008 with decor that includes antique fixtures and vintage signs. Aside from the casual diner on the ground floor, there’s also a saloon-style upper level with reclaimed-wood paneling and light fixtures made from old pickle jars and bottles. Both floors can be booked for as many as 125 people.
