221201 Mon Apr 11 10:46:26 -0700 2005 0 18 Manhattan 0 1176769 I went on Friday for the first time in over a year, and I am kicking myself for not having been back sooner. Showed up about 7:15-7:30 and told we had a forty-five minute wait. Gave my cell phone number and walked a few blocks south to Grove St. to Lederhosen for a drink while we waited. I have yet to eat at Lederhosen but will soon. It is run by three former employees of Hallo Berlin. The menu is very similar and similarly priced. The kitchen recently opened, but I know they are not serving teh full menu. The beer selection differs from Hallo Berlin, but they have a number of German drafts. I had a Jever dark, which compared well with the Kostritzer that I have had at Hallo Berlin. My date had what I believe was called a "Black Forest Pinot Noir" and said it was much better than Hallo Berlin's wines. Not sure how long the prices will last, but the drinks are relatively cheap. I'll post on the food after I eat there but I would expect The forty-five minute estimate was pretty close, but I did not keep track. Mary's called and we went there a few minutes later. A space at the counter was open and waiting for us when we arrived. At Mary's, my date had salt crusted shrimp and scallops, while I had steamers and braised monkfish. The shrimp were very good. The steamers tasted great, fairly large, tender, yum but were a little gritty and could have used some more flushing/rinsing before they were cooked. I did not try the scallops, but the monkfish was excellent sitting over a very flavorful reduction. Hopefully it won't be a another year before I go back. Mon Apr 11 10:46:26 -0700 2005 0 Captain