A Guide to the East Village with Chef Janine Booth

Born and raised in Perth, Australia, Chef Janine Booth moved to the United States to pursue her passion for professional cooking. Booth knew that the space that would become  Root & Bone in the East Village needed a lot of work, and was happy to work with her partner to help build it into the place it is today. Today, Root & Bone is in its fifth year of business and she is full of gratitude to the East Village community that has welcomed her and her restaurant. But Booth’s knowledge doesn’t stop at her culinary expertise—here are her recommendations for where to eat, drink and what to do in this “culture rich and eclectic neighborhood.” Where to Eat Explore the East Village, New York City through the eyes of a culinary expert and discover her top places to stop for a meal. Emmy Squared For great pizza, Booth recommends Emmy Squared. With its pizzas organized similar to a wine list, this restaurant offers a great selection whether you prefer red or white. Options range from the classic Margarita to “The Emmy,” which features banana peppers, onion and ranch. And if you’re not craving pizza? There are sandwich options that come served on a pretzel bun and plenty of small plates. Avant Garden By now we may all know at least one person who has gone vegan—if we haven’t already ourselves. Booth recommends this restaurant  that provides amazing vegan fare along with other dishes for meat lovers. From toast starters to vegetable-driven mains, Avant Garden truly has something for everyone. Tuome For “contemporary, fancy AmericanAsian in an unassuming space,” head to Tuome . This restaurant includes mains like snow crab for seafood lovers, while appetizers include Asian inspired dishes such as fluke tartare with soy sesame vinaigrette. Where to Drink Learning about a neighborhood is not complete without finding out where to get your daily cup of coffee. Three Seats Booth’s recommendations for eateries in the East Village doesn’t stop at dinner options. She suggests this coffee shop on Avenue A as her go-to spot for a delicious coffee. The cafe also serves food and tea. Things to Do Discover the rest of what the East Village has to offer. Besides the best restaurants, Booth loves to spend an afternoon walking through the beautiful parks and gardens, especially through the one located right next to Root & Bone. Here are some other ways Booth likes to spend her free time. Ave A Pilates When she has time, Booth will take a class at her favorite Pilates studio in the city where you can “enjoy feeling all the benefits of stretching and toning while overlooking the blooming Tompkins Park.” The studio offers a blend of both Classical and Contemporary Pilates. Exit9 Gift Emporium Booth likes to take a stroll through this gift shop to browse for unique items for friends or even herself. The shop offers an assortment of gift ideas—everything from stationery to accessories to items for the home. Find your new home in the East Village today.