Chef David Burke Opens New Midtown Restaurant

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN, NY — Well-known chef David Burke's new Midtown Manhattan restaurant debuts Monday and is inviting guests to bring their own booze — for now.

Woodpecker by David Burke will institute a BYOB policy until it obtains its liquor license, according to a spokesperson for the restaurant. The eatery, located at 30 W. 30th St. between Broadway and Fifth Avenue, will offer its full menu starting Monday.

The restaurant's menu features wood-roasted meats, fish, vegetables and pizzas cooked in two large wood-burning ovens. Featured dishes include: wood roasted lamb with tomato couscous and olives, "Hipster Fries" with parmesan, bacon, shishito and chili oil and a lobster calzone.

Brazen diners might be drawn to the Cricket-rita Pizza. The pizza is made with real crickets baked into its crust and topped with crickets, tomato and jalapeno pesto.

"We’re proud to see Woodpecker by David Burke make its debut in an area that has yet to open this kind of American dining establishment," David Burke said in a statement. "Our goal is to have it become the friendly neighborhood hot spot where guests can kick back in a lively, playful, yet classy setting to indulge in some traditional favorites or sample some pleasantly surprising dishes."

The new restaurant will seat 110 diners and features both a private dining room and a features a large communal table. The kitchen will be helmed by chef Carmine Di Giovanni, a veteran at Burke's restaurants, according to a press release.

Woodpecker by David Burke will be open from 12-10 p.m on Mondays through Thursdays and from 12-11 p.m. on Fridays through Sundays. The bar will be open daily from 12 p.m.-12 a.m., according to a press release.

Photos courtesy Woodpecker by David Burke