Sandwich shop No. 7 Sub on Manhattan Avenue was closed over the summer for renovations. When it re-opened a few weeks ago, not only had the interior undergone a major facelift, but the place even had a slightly different name: No 7. North.
The new name is reflective of their their updated menu as, even though they still have some kick-ass sandwiches, there is now an expanded selection of bar food and, excitingly, booze.
The old sandwich counter is gone and in its place is an elegant long bar of dark wood, overlooked by a taxidermy peacock named Francis.
One of the best things about the new bar menu is its price-tags: All ‘Borough’ cocktails are a mere $7. Yep, the Manhattan may have gotten the glory all these years but maybe it’s time to branch out and try a Staten Island (rum, toasted coconut syrup, lime, soda) or, at the very least a Brooklyn (Rye, amaro, dry vermouth, maraschino). However, if you want to get really local you can opt for a sludge-busting Newtown Creek ($10). Composed of rye, Carpano Antica, Averna, bitters and cider it is a whole lot tastier than its name may suggest.
Another drink worth mention is the gin & tonic ($8). Bar manager Chris Fisher tells me that their intention is to stick to classic drinks, but do them ‘really well’. For starters, they make their own tonic water, which already puts their G&T ahead of the pack. Using a tonic recipe that includes lavender, cardamom, lemongrass and cinchona (the quinine component), they then combine this with cucumber, thai basil and monopolowa gin to create one of the best G&Ts I’ve tried.
With all this free-flowing liquor it’s a good thing that No. 7 North boasts an extensive array of bar food. The menu, created by chef and owner Tyler Kord now includes tasty bites such as a grilled romaine caesar salad with breaded soft boiled egg and anchovies ($11) and Altered Beast fries topped with jalapeños, pickled red onions, mozzarella, feta cheese & roasted tomato mayo ($8).
A particular highlight are the super-sized broccoli tacos with black bean hummus, feta and crispy shallots. These are an all-time classic down at No. 7 (their Fort Greene sister restaurant) and are especially great liberally doused in the house-made hot sauce. As per the brand heritage, there are still plenty of good sandwiches on the menu, including the Zucchini Parm, and the No 7. Sub Club of turkey, ham, jalapeño mayo, tomatoes, bbq chips & pico de lettuce ($8).
Anyone who’s ever frequented the Ace Hotel outpost of No. 7 Sub will notice that the Greenpoint prices are much more wallet-friendly. Chris says that price was an important consideration when creating the menu for No. 7 North. They wanted to create somewhere cozy and affordable, with friendly staff and awesome music where everyone in the neighborhood would feel comfortable dropping in for a drink and something to eat.
With all the money you’ll be saving on food and drink, you can afford to splurge an extra dollar in their plush new pool parlor in the back. Surrounded by vintage mirrors, this is a great place to hang out and attempt to work off a few of those Altered Beast fries before you get in the next round.
No. 7 North is at 931 Manhattan Avenue, between Kent and Java Streets. As of October 17th they will start serving a weekend brunch.
I miss Divine Follie. It had a great marinated skirt steak sandwich.