This Restaurant Follows the Martini-and-Fries Playbook, But Still Pleasantly Surprises
Briefly

The Snail, a new bistro in Greenpoint by Austin Baker, aims to succeed where others have struggled, attracting an eager crowd despite seeming like just another typical eatery. The restaurant's walk-in only policy caters to modern diners who face intense competition for reservations elsewhere. On a busy Saturday, the waiting line exceeded thirty people before the dinner service began. However, the atmosphere inside felt inviting and relaxed, aided by a text notification system easing crowding concerns, allowing guests to explore the area while they wait for their tables.
Despite the somewhat hectic initial influx of prospective diners, the restaurant felt surprisingly chill and charming: the text system does a lot to keep crowds from congregating at the entrance.
Another bistro with fries? How original. But it has nevertheless stayed busy among the contingent of shrimp cocktail and dirty martini aficionados.
The Snail, a new bistro that opened in November at 544 Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, comes from Austin Baker, an alum of the Hogsalt restaurant group.
It’s a policy that might seem appealing now more than ever, as reservations have become a competitive sport.
Read at Eater NY
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