I started on my "Before I go" restaurant list last Friday night when I visited Kingswood. Only once I stepped into the space, I realized I'd been there before. D'oh. I went with my co-workers in early 2008, not long after the restaurant had opened. Apparently the food hadn't been particularly memorable, because the only thing I remember is my department VP getting drunk on too much red wine and the awkward taxi ride I took alone with her afterwards.

Kingswood is labeled as an Australian and Gastropub kind of restaurant. To me, it's modern, eclectic and trendy in a rustic way. A bar separates the entrance area from the dining area -- this bar is open and looks nearly identical to a nice, country-style kitchen island. We arrived at the restaurant soon after opening, so the place was fairly empty and reservations not necessary, but on both of my visits, I found that the young and trendy like to assemble and overcrowd this bar area later on in the night.

My dining companion and I both pretty much wanted the same thing, so we shared our orders of the Ruby's Bronte burger and roasted Cornish hen (though I secretly wanted to try the Goan curry with market fish).


Kingswood is (or was) owned by the same people behind Ruby's and Tsubi, both Australian emblems here in New York City. The Ruby's Bronte burger was probably named after Ruby's, the Australian restaurant. The burger ($16) came dressed with cheddar and a sweet chili sauce that made the burger. The fries were absolutely delicious, with a side of truffle mayo -- and I don't even like mayo. The entire dish was well done and very satisfying.