The Spotted Pig Turned The Golden Swan - Matt Abramcyk Talks His New Hot Spot

by Christie Grimm · June 21, 2023

    The Spotted Pig is now The Golden Swan

    Having sat empty since January of 2020 following that whole little sexual harassment, retaliation and gender discrimination scandal, the three-story townhome perched on the corner of West 11th and Greenwich has been reimagined by an exciting new team... with nary a pig in sight.

    Following an extensive gutting, the beloved building has emerged elegant and refined. A moody, luxe tone is set with plush velvet curtains, black-painted brick and glistening green tiled walls and a decadent menu of dishes dreamed up by chef Doug Brixton, formerly of Bâtard. For those on the hunt for a friendly neighborhood nightcap, the ground level has been fashioned into The Wallace Room, an intimate cocktail lounge. For those seeking a more composed, fine dining experience, the second floor’s main dining room offers a brighter, lighter setting and equally delicious menu.

    Of course, as is to be expected with New Yorkers and newness, reservations have been snatched up left and right, though owner Matt Abramcyk (of Tribeca mainstays Smith & Mills, Holy Ground, Tiny’s & the Bar Upstairs) does have some tips on how to get around that...

    What was it about this space in particular that grabbed you?
    The potential for the second floor – the uniqueness of creating a jewel box dining room with one-of-a-kind sightlines from each corner window to the street, and to the other beautiful buildings on West 11th & Greenwich Streets. Dining on the second floor of a historic townhouse feels particularly special.

    What's the story behind the name?
    During the 1920s, The Golden Swan was the neighborhood watering hole for a mix of travelers, New Yorkers and locals. Owned and operated by Golden Gloves winning boxer Thomas Wallace and immortalized in The Iceman Cometh' by Eugene O’Neill, the characters and stories of The Golden Swan honor the great traditions of New York dining, entertainment and nightlife. 

    What are your thoughts on this Instagram foodie moment we're living in?
    I do not have an Instagram account but we endeavor to make every experience in our restaurants feel unique.

    How would you describe the interior vibe?
    Inspired by great English townhouse design to create the most aspirational New York brownstone life.

    What are the big differences between The Wallace Room and The Dining Room?
    The Wallace Room is a more casual bar room experience, whereas the dining room is the more indulgent of the two and a more composed dining experience.

    What dishes are currently your favorite?
    The Market Asparagus with poached egg and truffle, The Steak Tartare with garlic aioli and parmesan egg emulsion, and The Crescent Duck with beets, caramelized shallot and tarragon.

    Reservations are going fast - any tricks to snagging a respectable non-5:30PM/10PM table?
    Reservations open a month in advance on Resy. If you are a local, we suggest a stop in to say hi to Marquis, our Maitre’D – we always keep tables open for walk-ins and neighbors.

    Speaking of tables, which one's the best in the house?
    The dining room is wrapped in windows so almost every table offers a spectacular sightline -- there isn't a bad table in the house.

    What nights are you most likely to pop by?
    I’m here every night! Come say hello.

    [Photos courtesy The Golden Swan]