With all the warmth of a longtime neighborhood gathering spot, and the novelty and excitement that accompany so much of David Burke’s signature fare - Woodpecker NYC - the debut in 2018 of his wood-fired American restaurant, is an experience to enjoy, remember and repeat.
It began with Burke’s love for a wood-burning oven. From the expansive 35-foot wooden bar that welcomes all who enter, to heavy wood communal dining tables, right down to the restaurant’s name, the inspiration behind Woodpecker started at the oven. Though, in classic Burke form, David would not simply do what most imagine one does with a wood burning oven - he would design an entire menu around unique dishes that could be fired up. He decided that he would serve pastas, fish, lobster calzones, veggie concoctions, and yes, pizza too - just not any pizzas.
Roasted Cricket Pizza. Burke just loves throwing that curve ball that one is not going to get anywhere else. He likes to experiment with different products and, according to the chef, crickets are a new wave of protein. "It is not uncommon for folks who try this adventurous take on pizza to enjoy it so much they request a whole plate of baked crickets to snack on."
Just as the wood seems to escape from the oven, trickling out to every facet of the restaurant’s interior, the flame extends its reach making appearances across the menu. Celebrated favorites including Burke’s famous torched maple bacon clothesline accompany fresh novelties like the sparrow - a torched candied apple cocktail perfectly frothed and decorated with foam art. Then there is the Cinnamon & Rosemary smoked apple tart, rich with authentic smoky flavor because, well, it is served literally smoking.
“It’s a mixed crowd here,” commented Chef Carmine Giovanni. “We have old, young, doesn’t matter what you’re wearing - it’s for everyone. It’s a great spot for happy hour, the ‘Lunch Quickie’ or to bring a crowd for a good time. David and I just want to send out fun, innovative food, that’s what David Burke is known for. He’s known for just throwing that curveball you’re not going to get anywhere else."