Nestled at the crossroads of Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Cecily is making waves as a fresh, mission-focused dining destination that’s as flavorful as it is impactful. The brainchild of seasoned New York hospitality professionals Kristin Ma, Tara Noble, and James Salazar, Cecily embodies a commitment to both people and the planet, blending an inviting atmosphere with a progressive approach to dining.
At the helm of Cecily’s culinary and beverage programs are Kristin Ma and Tara Noble, veterans of New York City’s fine dining scene. Ma–with a background at notable spots like Estela and WS New York–along with Noble–who has graced the floors of LaLou and Rosemary’s–bring a wealth of expertise to this new venture. Their vision centers on not just offering a memorable meal, but also fostering a robust local community through inclusive profit-sharing and staff ownership opportunities.
The menu, curated by Executive Chef James Salazar–formerly of Diner and Marlow & Sons–celebrates environmental conscience with a dynamic array of vegetable-centric dishes that cater to all dietary preferences. Picture the crunch of porcini “chicharrones” paired with velvety egg yolk, or the hearty butter beans with braised collards, sweet onions, and sourdough bread.
For a more substantial option, try the roasted half chicken with castelvetrano olives and pomegranate, or the crowd-pleasing fried rabbit with ramp agrodolce served on Sundays.
Cecily’s beverage program is equally thoughtfully crafted, featuring an eclectic selection of wines from Spain’s lesser-known regions like Galicia and Basque Country. Whether in the mood for natural wines, crisp bubbles, or zero-proof cocktails, the drinks menu promises a diverse and engaging experience.
Having experienced the highs and lows of the hospitality industry first-hand, Ma, Noble, and Friedling offer staff profit-sharing and ownership opportunities, complemented by hands-on mentorship in skills from wine tasting to financial management. Team members are all encouraged to explore their interests and take on significant roles within the business.
Cecily has quickly become a cornerstone of the neighborhood, embodying a modern take on hospitality that values engagement and environmental responsibility. Ma, Noble, and Frieling’s deep roots in Brooklyn and beyond ensure that Cecily is not just a place to eat, but a vibrant hub where locality and sustainability converge.
Top Takeaways:
Location: Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Address: 80 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Cuisine: American
Price Point: $$$
Takes Reservations: Yes – OpenTable
The vibe: Cecily is the epitome of a neighborhood wine bar, with intimate seating arrangements, ambient lighting, and a menu comprised of delectable, shareable bites.
Our favorite thing on the menu: The seasonal, vegetarian “chicharrones” and butter beans are delicious. We highly recommend booking a table for a Sunday to try the fried rabbit.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Dinner: Thursday to Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM; Sunday and Monday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
