Snagging a seat at Carroll Gardens' perennially popular Battersby has been an exercise in futility since they opened their doors in 2011. Some of that burden might be eased now that the team has opened Dover, a 50-seat affair less than 10 blocks away. Partners Joseph Ogrodnek and Walker Stern brought aboard Gramercy Tavern vet Evyatar Lapidot for the new venture, which serves familiar fare to the duo's first restaurant but with a little more elbow room for both the chefs and diners.
The menu includes four sections with a few items, starting with raw selections like a gorgeously pink Hamachi ($16) with radish and first courses of Winter Squash ($14) and Pork Belly ($15). The second fish course includes dishes like Lobster with tomato confit, salsify and spinach ($21/36) and Scallops with carrots and almonds ($18/$31); the final meat course has big ticket items like Beef Ribeye with bone marrow ($39) and Chicken for Two with black truffle. Diners also have the option for a seven-course Tasting Menu ($75), with dishes like seared foie gras, black bass and a pecan financier for dessert.
The interior has similar elements to its predecessor, including cozy brick walls and a generally unpretentious vibe, but airier courtesy of large windows that overlook Court Street. Snag a seat at the small bar, where with the right stool you'll be able to peek into the busy yet immaculate kitchen beyond while sipping cocktails like the minty Meyer Lemon Smash or sharing a bottle of wine while you wait for a table.
412 Court Street, Carroll Gardens; (347) 987-3545; doverbrooklyn.com
