232842 Sat Apr 08 20:51:39 -0700 2006 3 18 Manhattan 0 1235539 Hi-Going to Gramercy 24 for Sunday dinner (not brunch). Any suggestions on what to have and what to skip. Place is picked so suggestions for other spots not needed--just looking for how to make the best with a family dinner. TIA. Sat Apr 08 20:51:39 -0700 2006 0 eve 1 1235595 Eve, When Gramercy 24 opened, Hounds who went there posted quite negative reviews about the quality of the food. Therefore, despite it's convenient location for me, I never put it on my "go to" list. However, it's been open for more than a year now, so I've been wondering if it's a sign that they've managed to improve the food? Obviously, this is no help to you. But I hope you will do me and other Hounds a favor and post about your experience this evening. TIA! :-) Sun Apr 09 16:48:26 -0700 2006 1235539 0 RGR 2 1235605 I just returned and I give it a thumbs up of sorts. No, it's not fine dining but it was good for a dinner out with the family in the nabe. I plan to return to try the brunch very soon, which is gentler on my wallet. Service is pretty good--once in awhile you will need to ask for something. Not so bad--service is very warm but a bit sleepy. One shouldn't be shy to ask for stuff. We started with the shrimp cocktail (no surprises here-6 shrimp, medium) and the fried calamari (big serving and pretty good--like the chipolte dipping sauce). I had the salmon which I recommend but they should change the greens--I think it was kale--not my favorite. Others had the rack of lamb--I suggest skipping and saving it for a more refined dining spot. It was ok--4 racks --good servings size with gnocchi. French fries shared were enjoyed by all. Price was $165 including tax & tip for 2 sodas, 1 tea, 1 cappucino, 1 dessert, 2 appetizers, 3 entrees, 1 side and one very strong Chocolate Martini (one of the reasons for returning sooner rather than later). btw-this is not haute cuisine dining. This is more higher priced neighborhood spot. I suggest one find 2-3 solid options on the menu and not to expect wonders. If it is was slightly less pricey, it would do better, but it seems to stick around so who knows. Sun Apr 09 19:50:53 -0700 2006 1235595 0 eve 3 1235619 Eve, Thanks for the very prompt report. Sounds as though things have improved since the early days so that with the proper level of expectation and careful menu choices, it's possible to have a decent meal there. Maybe we'll give it a try sometime. Link: http://www.gramercy24.com Sun Apr 09 22:53:46 -0700 2006 1235605 0 RGR