The Black Ant

- 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Introduction / Overview

In a city as dynamic and culinarily competitive as New York, some restaurants don't just serve food; they become a part of the city's very fabric, remembered for their innovation and a unique point of view. The Black Ant, located in the heart of the East Village, was one such establishment. It was a place that pushed the boundaries of what a Mexican restaurant could be, earning well-deserved accolades for its creative and bold approach. The restaurant’s philosophy, guided by the "great Chef Mario Hernandez," was to serve inventive dishes inspired by the flavors of Oaxaca, a region known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. The Black Ant was perhaps most famous for its adventurous use of edible insects, a culinary practice common in Mexico but rarely seen in American fine dining. Dishes like guacamole with chicatana ant salt and grasshopper tacos became its signature, drawing both curious diners and seasoned foodies. This courageous menu was a reflection of a restaurant that was "way ahead of its times," constantly surprising and delighting its customers. The reviews from both a former chef and a customer who visited for the first time speak to a deep affection for the establishment and its mission. They describe a place with an "amazing" team that "truly cared for this business," creating a dining experience that was intimate, high-quality, and memorable. While the presence of insects was a notable feature, it was by no means the only reason to visit. The menu was robust and full of incredible, non-insect-based options, as highlighted by a review that praised the "best" guacamole in Manhattan and delicious drinks. The Black Ant wasn't just a restaurant; it was a testament to the power of culinary exploration and the creation of a community around a shared passion for exceptional food. This reputation for innovation and excellence is what made it a beloved fixture in the New York dining scene.

Location and Accessibility

The Black Ant was perfectly situated at 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, in the heart of the East Village. This vibrant and easily accessible neighborhood is a cornerstone of Manhattan’s cultural and dining scene. The restaurant's prime location on 2nd Avenue, between East 3rd and East 4th Streets, made it a convenient destination for New Yorkers from all over the city. The area is well-connected by public transportation, with the F train at 2nd Avenue and the 6 train at Astor Place both within easy walking distance. This accessibility allowed it to draw a diverse crowd, from local residents to visitors eager to experience its unique menu. For those who preferred to arrive by car, the presence of paid street parking was an added convenience in a neighborhood where it can be difficult to find a spot. The restaurant's physical space was an integral part of its charm. The outdoor seating offered a lively and inviting setting for diners to enjoy a meal and a drink, especially during the warmer months, while soaking in the energetic atmosphere of the East Village. The location, with its natural foot traffic and vibrant surroundings, was a key factor in The Black Ant's success as a popular and well-regarded destination. It was a place where the dining experience extended beyond the walls of the restaurant and into the lively streets of one of New York's most cherished neighborhoods. Its presence on 2nd Avenue further cemented its status as a landmark of modern Mexican cuisine in the city, making it a familiar and celebrated name for anyone with a passion for unique dining experiences.

Services Offered

The Black Ant provided a full-service dining experience designed to cater to a wide range of needs and occasions. The service was consistently praised for being "amazing," reflecting a commitment to hospitality that matched the quality of the food. Key services included:

• Dine-in: The core service, offering a full menu in a vibrant and engaging setting.
• Outdoor seating: A popular option that allowed guests to enjoy their meal al fresco in the bustling East Village.
• Curbside pickup & Takeout: Convenient options for those who wanted to enjoy the restaurant's food at home.
• No-contact delivery: Partnering with delivery services to ensure the menu was accessible to a wider audience with the convenience of delivery.
• Private dining room: An exclusive space for hosting private events and special gatherings.

Features / Highlights

The highlights of The Black Ant were a combination of its inventive menu, its welcoming atmosphere, and its full-service bar, all of which contributed to its status as a unique culinary destination. Standout features included:

• Exceptional food quality: The menu was celebrated for its creativity and deliciousness, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. The guacamole, in particular, was singled out as the "best I ate in Manhattan so far."
• Unique offerings: The restaurant was known for its daring use of edible insects, such as ants and grasshoppers, which provided a memorable and adventurous dining option for those who were willing to try something new.
• Extensive beverage program: The onsite bar offered a wide array of options, including alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine. The "very good" drinks were a major draw, especially during happy hour.
• Happy hour: Offering both happy hour food and drinks, The Black Ant was a popular spot for a post-work gathering or a pre-dinner treat.
• Diverse dining options: The restaurant was popular for every meal, offering a robust menu for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as late-night food.
• Amenities: The establishment was well-equipped with amenities such as a bar onsite, clean restrooms, and Wi-Fi. It also offered high chairs for children and was "dogs allowed outside" on the patio.
• Planning: The ability to make reservations was a key feature, allowing guests to plan for special events or simply ensure a table during busy times.
• Convenient payments: The acceptance of debit cards and NFC mobile payments made transactions quick and easy.

Contact Information

To learn more about the restaurant's legacy and to view its former menus, you can use the following information. The provided address and phone number are for the original establishment, which, as public data now indicates, has ceased operations at this location. However, its reputation and the quality of its offerings continue to be a topic of discussion among food enthusiasts.

Address: 60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 598-0300

What is worth choosing

While The Black Ant has closed its doors at this particular location, the reasons it was worth choosing are a testament to its enduring legacy. It was a restaurant that dared to be different, offering a truly unique culinary experience that was both authentic and avant-garde. For New Yorkers who are always on the lookout for a dining adventure, The Black Ant was a quintessential destination. The food was consistently described as "good" and even "amazing," with dishes that were both creative and delicious. The best guacamole in Manhattan, as noted by a reviewer, and the impressive cocktail list were just some of the highlights. But what truly set The Black Ant apart was its vision. It was a place where you could challenge your palate with a dish like the "Black Ant Guacamole" and then find comfort in a classic "Carne Asada" or "Pollo En Mole." The restaurant's commitment to quality was evident in every aspect, from the fresh ingredients to the beautiful presentation of each dish. The atmosphere was another major draw, offering a vibrant yet cozy setting that was perfect for a romantic dinner, a lively group outing, or a casual meal at the bar. The service was a key part of the appeal, with staff who were knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely passionate about the food and the business. For anyone who had the opportunity to dine there, The Black Ant was more than just a restaurant; it was a memorable experience that demonstrated the incredible potential of modern Mexican cuisine. Its closure is a sad note for the New York food scene, but its legacy as a pioneer of inventive dining lives on, making it a valuable part of the city's culinary history. It remains a benchmark for creativity and quality in the East Village and a place that food lovers will always remember and talk about.

The Black Ant

60 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA