When converting the old Le Zinc space to a wirsthaus, FiDi resident Kurt Gutenbrunner (Wallsé, Café Sabarsky) had the good sense to leave the fabulous array of gallery and museum posters all over the walls. As a result, Blaue Gans is one of the best spaces in Tribeca, thanks also to the lofty, barreled ceiling and the dramatic flower arrangement that usually sits on the bar. The food is German/Austrian, but with Gutenbrunner’s light touch. (Standouts include the sausages, the sauerkraut, the pretzel, and, for dessert, the exquisite Salzburger Nockerl.) Blaue Gans is a reliable brunch option, and at any time except perhaps after work—when crowds can drop in—the bar is great for solo diners. Also, the kitchen stays open till midnight. P.S. The name is pronounced blau-eh gahnz (“blue goose”).

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