New American
Lola's
Lola's is named to honor Chef Suzanne Cupps' paternal grandmother, Annunciasion “Noning” Rocamora Paraiso, who bravely fled the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during WWII, a story of resilience that underpins the restaurant's spirit. It's a place where Cupps weaves together her Southern upbringing and Asian culinary influences, creating a menu that feels both personal and distinctly New York. You'll often find regulars perched at the green terrazzo counter, watching the open kitchen, a nod to the jade bead Cupps inherited from her grandmother.
★ The Legend
Crispy Chicken Thighs
These gluten-free dark meat chicken thighs are marinated in an adobo-style sauce, then fried to a perfect crunch. They're served with house pickles and a fermented hot honey, offering a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that people rave about.
◆ Fan Favorite
HOUSEMADE NAAN
Baked fresh in an open pizza oven, this light and fluffy naan arrives warm and is consistently praised by diners. It's typically accompanied by a savory carrot masala yogurt and cilantro chutney, making it an irresistible starter that regulars reorder every time.
● Chef's Pick
Union Square Bento
This vegetarian bento box is a direct reflection of Chef Cupps' dedication to seasonal, local ingredients, with 90% of the restaurant's produce sourced from the Union Square Greenmarket. The contents change regularly, but often feature inventive preparations like broccolini, pink cabbage pancake, and malt vinegar potatoes, showcasing her vegetable-forward approach.
◇ Hidden Gem
Paraiso House Salad
Most first-timers might overlook a salad, but this one is a deeply personal dish for Chef Cupps, inspired by her mother's Pennsylvania Dutch upbringing. It features gem lettuces, a housemade buttermilk ranch, and pretzels from Union Square Pretzel Company, offering a nostalgic and unexpectedly satisfying combination.
Insider Tip
Don't just grab a table; try to snag a seat at the kitchen counter in the back. You'll get a front-row view of Chef Cupps and her team at work in the emerald-tiled open kitchen, which really enhances the dining experience and gives you a sense of the care that goes into each dish.
AI-generated results — always verify dishes and information before visiting.