West 6th Street's new pub (& my new favorite place)

On its still-under-construction web site, Haddingtons is described as a rustic American tavern with British influences.  As we walk in, "Born in the USA" is playing, so I guess you would have to call it American, but I feel like I'm somewhere else.  I've never been to England, therefore I've never been inside a real British pub, but this is what I hope it would be like.  The atmosphere is exactly what my husband and I are looking for on this chilly week night: cozy and inviting, and still buzzing with customers at 10 p.m. 

Haddingtons is the latest venture from restaurateur Michael Polombo, of Mulberry.  The Executive Chef is Zack Northcutt.  The space formerly belonged to Thai Tiara restaurant, but this building is brand new.  Michael Hsu (Uchi, Uchiko & many others) is the designer behind some of the decor choices.  The building now has a dark brick exterior, old-fashioned windows, rich wood furniture and floors and dim lighting with small votives placed on tables and windowsills. 

The lovely hostess takes us to a perfect little table that is half booth/half table, in the intimate back room where there's a second bar.  Haddingtons is already getting attention for its cocktails which are created by the mixologist from Fino and include a drink called the Duck Fat Sazerac, made with duck fat infused rye!  While the wine by the bottle list is extensive, the wine by the glass one is limited and a bit pricey, but we tried a great French pinot noir.  The food menu is also fairly short, but more than adequate due to the unique and incredibly delicious sounding items.  We settle on the duck meatloaf and foie gras sausage with pear relish.  Both are amazing.  The duck meatloaf is warm and rich, perfectly-seasoned and sweet all at the same time.  The foie gras sausage link is like an upscale hot dog that melts in your mouth.  This is more than just a tavern, it's the ultimate gastropub, where the quality of food is just as important as the drinks.

I was anticipating its opening, but Haddingtons far exceded my expectations.  And to top it all off, the service was wonderful.  With its welcoming atmosphere, exceptional drink list, and innovative menu, Haddingtons may just be my new favorite place.

Haddingtons

601 W. 6th St.

http://www.thehaddington.com/