The Best Table At Saint Theo's? Downtown's Favorite Restaurateur Dishes On All Things Dining

Kyle Hotchkiss Carone certainly has the Midas touch when it comes to creating a scene. His  spots - Saint Theo's, American Bar, Holiday Bar, The Lambs Club - are among the most sought after reservations around, each with a distinct allure that beckons you to slip into a booth and lose an evening to martini-fueled chat.

Curious to know how often he's posted up at his own haunts, and exactly what he's ordering on repeat? 

Walk us through your typical Sunday.
Wake up as late as humanly possible - maybe 10AM, 11AM if we're going crazy. Stop for a very large Dunkin Donuts on Christopher Street, then onwards to American Bar for quick brunch (an egg white omelet and an everything bagel). Pray that the sun isn't out so I can go back home and relax, followed by a very early, 5PM-style dinner at Saint Theo's. And then right back home.

Safe to assume you're just eating at your restaurants all the time?
It's actually such a bummer when people ask me for new restaurant recommendations and I don't have great answers. I should make this a New Year's resolution, actually. With that being said, the short answer is yes!

What's your go-to Saint Theo's order these days?
Saint Theo's brunch is a panini and a diet coke and I'm in and out in 30 minutes. I don't linger much when I eat. I like fast. For dinner, the chicory salad and an off-menu spaghetti aglio olio.

Do you have a particularly favorite table in the house?
The room on the right when you walk in, Venice Bar, is mostly used for private events - but when it's not booked we seat tables in there. I always like sitting in there because it's a little more intimate, a little quieter. There are only three tables but they are generously spaced out so it's a bit like a private dining room vibe.

In your professional opinion, what's the best night to go out in New York?
I wish I could say Tuesdays but no. In the summer, Thursday. During the rest of the year, Friday. Sundays and Mondays in the winter are cozy and quiet and I love that as well.

Between Saint Theo's, American Bar, Holiday Bar, and The Lambs Club, how often are people hitting you up for reservations?
All day - but I always have to correct people when they apologize for doing it. It's my actual job. And you're asking to come to my restaurants, so I will take that as a compliment. 

Text me people! I like it!

Biggest pet peeve when going out to eat?
Loud people.

In general, table for two or the more the merrier?
A table for two is way too intimate - the more the merrier!

Saint Theo's is now BYOB on Sundays, generously sans corkage fee - what's the proper tipping etiquette there?
For just a bottle, I think it's fair to tip just on the bill. If you're popping off and doing a night of wine service, perhaps be more generous!

Would we ever catch you snapping photos of your food?
No.

What are you most excited for next?
We are working on some expansion plans, but let's see what actually happens!

[Photos courtesy Saint Theo's]