Stanhope's Tavern

“A kitchen that single-fries in blended has made a commitment. At Stanhope's Tavern, this commitment is honored. The thick-cut fry arrives crisp — aspirational — and earnest and specific within. The grease is generous in the manner of a host who means it. The portion is restrained. Commitments, when honored, tend to produce results. One visits twice. The second visit confirms the first.”

“Stanhope's Tavern occupies a modest address in Long Island City. The fries are, in contrast, not modest. The thick-cut format is executed in blended, single-fried to a finish that is aspirational. The interior is earnest and specific. The portion is restrained. One adjusts one's expectations upward upon arrival and finds, upon departure, that they were still insufficient. One visits twice. The second visit confirms the first.”