Picnic Opens in East Village

Turkey Leg Cranberry at Picnic, a new restaurant in the East Village. (Courtesy of Noah Fecks)

NEW YORK—Ever feel like having a picnic but wanting waiter service at the same time? New East Village restaurant Picnic may be the solution to your conflicting fancies. 

Picnic opened on 117 2nd Avenue at the corner of 7th Street on Sept. 9. It can seat up to 70. 

The restaurant’s executive chef is Nicholas Nostadt, who was with Williamsburg’s Berry Park. 

Nostadt takes a contemporary spin on classics inspired by his Midwestern roots. Dishes include:

- Cheese Ball with Roquefort, Bresaola, Dill, Braised Bosc Pear, Pickled Red Onions and Grilled Bread (cheese ball selections will rotate)
- Mussels with Hard Cider, Apricot Nectar, Dijon Cream, Soft Herbs and Spices
- Pulled Pork Sandwich with Root Beer BBQ and Roasted Corn & Cabbage Slaw
- Whole Roasted Fish with Lemon, Garlic and Herbs
- Turkey Leg Confit with Cranberry BBQ Sauce
- Snacks like Deviled Eggs; Boiled Peanuts; and a Roll-Up (Mortadella & Roquefort cheese rolled in pinwheel) 
- Desserts like house-made donuts, a selection of pies and chef Nostadt’s take on the beloved Midwestern Puppy Chow

There is a beer and wine list that are available on tap, by the can, and bottle. They will also serve Counter Culture coffee. 

Many of the restaurant’s designs are made with reclaimed wood. Food is served on authentic vintage tables gathered from around New York City. 

Picnic
117 2nd Avenue at the corner of 7th Street