Animal style

RESTAURANTS • First Word

The Skinny: The third outpost of the pioneering shoppy shop, Cookbook — and the first to open since Jon Shook, Vinny Dotolo, and Helen Johannesen of Jon & Vinny’s and Son of a Gun took the reins — features an al fresco cafe, serving three meals a day in a newly hot corner of Larchmont.

The Vibe: The decor is simple and chic: Wood tables topped with parchment, sturdy umbrellas, and chairs with royal blue cushions and white metal backs shaped like faces. Order at a counter inside, then seat yourself. On Monday around 1p, a majority of the tables were spoken for. 

The Food: Well-executed and satisfyingly straightforward California cuisine. At midday, a perfectly crispy pan con tomate and a comforting bowl of chicken bone broth with sourdough toast under a poached egg. The lunch and dinner menu also includes pasta, beer and wine, and a kids’ section (brioche-encased hot dog, spaghetti with butter and parm). 

The Verdict: Cookbook and Jon & Vinny’s had a kid, and she’s a winner. –Emily Wilson

→ The Cafe on Larchmont (Larchmont) • 310 N. Larchmont Blvd. • Walk-ins only.