This Valentine's Day weekend I tried The John Dory Oyster Bar, a bustling restaurant run by English Chef April Bloomfields. I've been to April's other venue, The Spotted Pig, which she partnered with Ken Friedman. It was New York's first "Gastropub," which I've frequented a few times, but often find rather overcrowded, due to cramped seating. I wanted to see what else April could offer.

John Dory was a bit more spacious and a lot more interesting so far as choice. The focus is, of course, on fish. Its menu gives nods to other renknowned kitchens in England, and there's good service. There were a few slight kitchen gafs; octopus served with a touch too much salt and vinegar, lobster that was a bit overcooked. But overall it was good, and I hope to go back again soon. Here is what I had and saw.