365735 Tue Jan 30 08:11:13 -0800 2007 4 18 Manhattan 0 2241246 It's been dogging me for months - does anyone out there know what's coming to 34 Downing Street, btw. Bedford and 7th Avenue? I think it might be something owned by the Blue Ribbon empire (Food First LLC). The decor seems Japanese, and the space is tiny, so I'm thinking (and hoping) it's some sort of sake bar... Tue Jan 30 08:11:13 -0800 2007 57021 lactose intolerant cheeselover 1 2241723 From the New York Magazine 2006 Fall Preview: "Blue Ribbon Bar Further expanding their South Village domain, brothers Bruce and Eric Bromberg open a seventeen-stool bar opposite their popular bakery, both to absorb the inevitable overflow and to showcase their prepared foods. A selection of wines, sakes, cordials, and cognacs will be available to wash down small plates of tartares and smoked meats and fish. • 34 Downing St., nr. Bedford St.; October." http://nymag.com/guides/fallpreview/2006/restaurants/toc/19754/index1.html I am very excited. Hopefully it will be soon? Tue Jan 30 10:02:01 -0800 2007 2241246 46430 erin07nyc 1 2241828 Wow - that's great, and a smart choice on their part as BRB is always jam-packed, with not much of a bar area to speak of. I walk past the space every day, and I'd say an opening is nigh - 3 weeks? Tue Jan 30 10:34:17 -0800 2007 2241246 57021 lactose intolerant cheeselover 1 2241930 awesome! perhaps we'll be able to wait for a table at BRBakery while at BRBar... Tue Jan 30 10:55:24 -0800 2007 2241246 46430 erin07nyc 1 2297903 Just wanted to say that I've been to the first night of ordering at the "Blue Ribbon/Downing Street Bar." Beautiful space, though it got overfull quickly (and quite steamy) - it's not really designed to hold more than about 20 people without knocking elbows (and wine glasses). Highly recommended are the foie gras with honey, and the paté toast. The cheese plate (cupole goat cheese) with autumn honey was delish, and there are lots and lots of wines by the glass - also flights, half-bottles, and full bottles. I was tempted to order everything! It's going to be tricky to find a time to go there when it's not packed, but it's definitely a welcome addition to the block. I'm curious to hear others' feedback. Thu Feb 15 19:51:57 -0800 2007 2241246 57021 lactose intolerant cheeselover