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ACRU has received positive feedback for its innovative Australian-inspired cuisine, attentive service, and cozy ambiance. Guests appreciate the creative tasting menu and the fusion of flavors from various culinary traditions.

Acru: Innovative Australian-Inspired Dining in New York City West Village District New York County New York NY United States 10012 79 MacDougal St 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City’s West Village, ACRU offers an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary meal. This innovative restaurant, located at 79 MacDougal Street, Manhattan, showcases an Australian-inspired culinary journey that captivates food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike. From the moment you step into ACRU, you are embraced by a cozy yet elegant atmosphere where quality materials and thoughtful design create an inviting setting perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions.

Creative tasting menu and standout dishes

ACRU specializes in a beautifully crafted tasting menu priced at $95, which offers a rare and exciting exploration of flavors, textures, and temperatures. Each course reflects Chef Daniel’s personal and culinary experiences, blending ingredients that surprise and delight. Signature dishes such as the scalloped potato, fermented carrot, lamb, and goat cheese tart come highly recommended and are praised for their artistic presentation and balanced flavor profiles. The menu also features memorable offerings like the squash leather with fish and a luscious pavlova dessert, all designed to deliver a multi-sensory culinary adventure.

Complement your meal with ACRU’s thoughtfully curated wine pairings, available in both standard and premium options, or indulge in their creative cocktail menu featuring unique drinks like the tequila highball, bees knees, orchard sour, and green almond highball. The cozy dining room strikes a perfect balance between upscale and welcoming, ensuring that every guest feels comfortable and attended to. Service is noted for its warmth and attentiveness, enhancing the overall dining experience in this chic West Village gem.

 Yes, reservations are accepted for the dining room, while the bar operates on a walk-in basis.

What is the price of the tasting menu at ACRU?

Is there a wine pairing option available?

 Yes, ACRU offers both standard and premium wine pairings to complement the tasting menu.

 ACRU operates from Wednesday to Monday, starting at 5 p.m., and is closed on Tuesdays.

Community impressions and dining experience

The community sentiment surrounding ACRU is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its creative and high-quality dishes, attentive service, and cozy ambiance. Diners appreciate the unique fusion of Australian flavors with New York City’s dynamic culinary scene. The restaurant is praised as an exceptional addition to the West Village, offering a rare fine dining experience with an accessible price point. Many guests emphasize the welcoming service, accommodating dietary restrictions with ease, and the outstanding wine and cocktail pairings that elevate the overall meal.

While the majority of reviews acclaim ACRU’s culinary creativity and quality, a few guests have noted occasional inconsistencies in service and food execution. However, this has not diminished the overall enthusiastic reception from food critics and visitors seeking a memorable gastronomic journey.

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a special celebration, or an inspiring dining adventure, ACRU invites you to savor its innovative flavors and warm hospitality in a stylish West Village setting.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, ACRU at 79 MacDougal Street is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites you to savor the artistry of fine dining. With its cozy yet elegant ambiance, ACRU offers a unique blend of comfort and sophistication, making it the perfect spot for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. The moment you step inside, you are enveloped by the inviting decor and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen, hinting at the innovative dishes that await.

At ACRU, every dish is a masterpiece, crafted with precision and creativity. Two standout offerings are the exquisite **scalloped potato** paired with a rich carrot and damper bread, and the succulent **lamb and steak** that melt in your mouth. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, showcasing Chef Daniel's culinary expertise and personal touch. The restaurant also boasts a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu, featuring delights like the refreshing tequila highball and the aromatic bees knees, perfect for complementing your meal.

One of the most captivating aspects of ACRU is its commitment to quality and creativity. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by its use of high-quality materials, creating a simple yet elegant dining space. A fun fact: the name ACRU is derived from the French word for "raw," reflecting the restaurant's philosophy of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and comforting. This dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of the dining experience, from the attentive service to the beautifully plated dishes.

 ACRU is renowned for its creative and beautifully presented dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients, making each dining experience unique.

 ACRU offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that is both innovative and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

 ACRU is conveniently located near Washington Square Park and the bustling streets of Greenwich Village, making it an ideal stop for a delightful meal after exploring the area.

Whether you're looking for a memorable dining experience or a cozy spot to unwind with friends, ACRU is the place to be. Book your table today and immerse yourself in the culinary delights that await. Don't forget to share your experience and let the world know about this hidden gem in the West Village.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaUlQRkt3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRTw-BxlZwokRKR4qkOtc8LQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaUlQRkt3EAE

Dining at ACRU isn’t a typical meal, it’s truly an experience. The cozy dining room and quality materials throughout the space are simple yet elegant. The dishes are beautiful and incredibly creative and very delicious. Each dish plays with textures and temperatures, colors and flavors resulting in a glimpse into Chef Daniel’s culinary and personal experiences. Our favorite dishes were the scalloped potato, carrot + damper bread, the lamb and steak, and goat cheese tart. They have a really nice wine pairing option, and quality cocktails too - I loved the tequila highball and bees knees cocktails. Really exceptional addition to the West Village!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaU5fYU5BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRTw-BxlZwokRKR4qkOtc8LQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaU5fYU5BEAE

The food was very good and the service was quick and friendly. There were a couple of dishes that were memorable: the squash leather with fish, part of the fish pate, part of the lamb, and the pavlova dessert. It's a very reasonable price for a set menu. They offer many add-ons, and I tried one out of curiosity, but the core menu was sufficient.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzenRQcFRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRTw-BxlZwokRKR4qkOtc8LQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzenRQcFRBEAE

The meal is high quality fine dining with very creative dishes. All the courses have very interesting flavor and ingredient combos and they all work together. Presentation is also unique, lovedddd the fermented carrot dish and lamb especially. For the price point this is such a rare find too

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcjdqUlVBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRTw-BxlZwokRKR4qkOtc8LQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcjdqUlVBEAE

Got the 5 course tasting menu with the supplement. It’s an incredible deal. The flavors are delicious, the service is so warm and welcoming, and the atmosphere is somehow both cozy and upscale. Will definitely be coming back often - I need to try the rest of their very creative cocktail menu, and I need to have the bread course again. Looking forward to stopping in to see what their bar food has to offer. Highly recommend for date night or a nice dinner any night of the week. (I posted a photo of the two wines I had, but not pictured was a green almond highball cocktail that I also had)

My partner has a few dietary restrictions and they handled it so well. I put them in a note on the reservation and when we arrived they had a separate menu for her with no fuss at all!

Edit:

2nd time here did the a la carte menu. They welcomed me back - must have recognized me from the reservation app. I ordered their Ala carte damper bread and their  dry aged dairy cow steak. I was a solo diner this time and was treated with as much attention as I was the last time. Service was very nice, they were attentive, did table touches, and waited to bring out my cocktail with the food as I requested. The cocktail was “orchard sour” - it was delicious and paired very well with my food. I’ve attached a photo of the dishes I ordered to this review. they are the last two photos. The damper bread was delicious, and the accompanying spread was so tasty. Roasted celeriac with a pumpkin seed emulsion. The steak was cooked perfectly, the two accompanying sauces were fantastic (I nearly drank the steak sauce that was left after I finished my steak) and the mashed potatoes with bleu cheese could have been a course by itself it was so good. The flavors were very well balanced.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzX3MtcTlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRTw-BxlZwokRKR4qkOtc8LQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzX3MtcTlBRRAB

Was looking forward to trying this newly added Michelin guide spot. Stemming from my past dining experiences with the Atomix group, I had certain hopes for how it should turn out, but unfortunately I was quite disappointed.

We came on a week night, the restaurant seemed quite full. Our server was attentive at first, but disappeared after we told her we need a minute to decide on the drinks. Hence we received our first course first, and waited for 10+ minutes before our drinks arrived.

The food was not exciting. Half of the courses were just meh. The monkfish liver broth was way too salty to enjoy, and I wish they had rendered the fat of the lamb more to get rid of the gamey taste. I really wanted to like this menu but even the sweet section felt redundant and dull. While I do appreciate they offer a relatively more affordable price point for the menu, I don’t think the food was executed well for even at $95 per person.

ACRU: Michelin-Starred Fine Dining in West Village, NYC

ACRU is a contemporary Australian-inspired restaurant located at 79 MacDougal St., New York, NY 10012. Opened in October 2024, it offers a seasonal five to six-course tasting menu that reflects Chef Daniel Garwood's culinary training and travels.

Located at 79 MacDougal Street in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, New York, ACRU is a standout destination for lovers of contemporary Australian-inspired cuisine. Since opening its doors in October 2024, ACRU has quickly established itself as a premier dining experience, offering a carefully curated seasonal tasting menu that showcases the inventive culinary artistry of its chef, Daniel Garwood.

ACRU officially opened on October 16, 2024, marking a significant addition to New York City’s dynamic gastronomic scene. Its arrival was met with enthusiasm from food enthusiasts and critics alike, quickly earning a prestigious spot in the MICHELIN Guide within the same year. This accolade reflects the restaurant’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and quality in every dish served.

ACRU’s menu is a reflection of Chef Daniel Garwood’s extensive culinary training and global travels, blending influences from Australian cooking traditions with contemporary techniques and seasonal ingredients. His vision creates a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply personal, inviting diners to explore a spectrum of textures, temperatures, and flavors that set ACRU apart from other New York establishments.

At ACRU, diners can indulge in a five to six-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring each visit offers fresh and exciting culinary delights. The restaurant’s atmosphere perfectly complements the food, featuring a cozy yet elegant space with quality materials that create an inviting ambiance. Guests can also enjoy thoughtfully paired wines and creative cocktails, elevating the overall experience.

Seasonal five to six-course tasting menus

 that showcase the freshest ingredients and creative flavor combinations.

 with elegant design suited for intimate dinners or special occasions.

Expert wine pairings and handcrafted cocktails

 designed to perfectly complement the menu’s complex flavors.

Restroom

Serves Wine

Dine In

At the vibrant heart of Manhattan lies ACRU, an enchanting restaurant that effortlessly blends chic ambiance with culinary artistry. This eatery stands as a testament to New York's rich tapestry of flavors and cultural influences, enveloping visitors in an atmosphere that hums with creative energy. Dine alfresco on the charming streets of Greenwich Village or retreat indoors where the sophisticated, yet cozy atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal. Indulge in handcrafted cocktails paired with dishes that celebrate both local and global inspirations.

ACRU

An ever-evolving seasonal five to six-course tasting menu using hyper-local ingredients and purveyors, reflecting Chef Garwood’s culinary training and travels in Scandinavia, Europe, Korea, and America.

Sanga

Shrimp

Crab tea - Pickles

Golden Tile

Squid - Fermented cabbage - Chicken broth

Surf Clam

Noodles - Periwinkle - Seamite

Duck

Green almond - Korean pear - Endive

Pavlova

Salsify - Pink lady

Golden haytime

Grand fir Tim Tam

ACRU Tasting Menu

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's West Village at 79 MacDougal Street, ACRU offers a refined dining experience that transcends the ordinary. This intimate restaurant serves a meticulously crafted seasonal tasting menu inspired by Chef Daniel Garwood’s extensive culinary training and global travels through Scandinavia, Europe, Korea, and America. Each dish harmonizes hyper-local ingredients with inventive techniques, delivering an exquisite balance of textures, temperatures, and flavors.

Begin your meal with an array of delicate starters that awaken the palate. The vibrant Sanga showcases seasonal freshness, while the succulent Shrimp offers a taste of oceanic sweetness. The Crab Tea served alongside pickles delivers a unique, briny warmth that sets the tone for the culinary adventure ahead.

The main courses at ACRU represent the pinnacle of creative fine dining. Savor the Golden Tile, a sumptuous dish that melts in your mouth, or explore the bold pairing of Squid with fermented cabbage and a rich chicken broth. The Surf Clam delivers fresh, ocean-inspired flavors, while the Noodles with periwinkle and seamite offer a textural delight. For meat lovers, the Duck presents a tender, flavorful centerpiece. The Green Almond combined with Korean pear and endive balances sweetness and bitterness in a masterful way.

Conclude your meal with desserts that are as artful as they are delicious. The Pavlova offers a light, meringue-based finish with crisp textures. Salsify paired with Pink Lady apple delivers unexpected earthiness and sweetness, while the Golden Haytime delights with its rich, golden hues. The Grand Fir Tim Tam is a sophisticated treat that perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s commitment to innovative flavor combinations.

ACRU complements its exquisite cuisine with a carefully curated wine selection and a creative cocktail program. Highlights include refined wine pairings that elevate each course and inventive cocktails such as the tequila highball and bees knees, celebrated for their balance and originality. The cozy yet elegant ambiance invites guests to savor every sip alongside their meal, making ACRU an exceptional destination for discerning foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

 a vibrant, fresh starter to excite your taste buds.

Squid with fermented cabbage and chicken broth:

 an innovative main with complex, layered flavors.

 a delicate and elegant dessert to finish your meal.

Savor delicious cuisine at ACRU, a hidden gem in Manhattan’s vibrant MacDougal Street! Experience unique flavors today—your table awaits!

Delicious Dining at ACRU, Manhattan's Hidden Gem

New York County

A five to six-course tasting menu featuring dishes like sea trout tartare with cabbage granita and slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, and roasted carrot soup poured over monkfish liver custard, squid noodles, and toasted grains.

Tasting Menu

Standard wine pairing consisting of five different wines over a range of styles to complement the core dishes of the menu.

Wine Pairings

Premium wine pairing consisting of five different wines over a range of styles to complement the core dishes of the menu.

Acru: Innovative Fine Dining in New York's West Village 

Nestled at 79 MacDougal Street, Acru offers an exceptional culinary journey in the heart of Manhattan’s vibrant West Village. Known for its creative approach to fine dining, this intimate restaurant blends exquisite flavors, elegant presentation, and a cozy yet upscale atmosphere. Whether you're a foodie craving innovative tastes or a trend-conscious traveler seeking unique New York dining experiences, Acru delivers a memorable feast for the senses.

Exceptional Tasting Menus and Creative Dishes

Acru’s signature offering is its five to six-course tasting menu priced at $95, showcasing a masterful blend of flavors and textures. Highlights include sea trout tartare paired with refreshing cabbage granita and slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, as well as a rich roasted carrot soup poured over a delicate monkfish liver custard with squid noodles and toasted grains. Each dish is thoughtfully designed to provide a glimpse into Chef Daniel’s culinary vision, with inventive combinations that stimulate both the palate and the eye.

Wine & Cocktail Pairings to Elevate Your Meal

To complement its innovative tasting menu, Acru offers thoughtfully curated wine pairings. Guests can choose from a standard five-wine pairing at $85 or indulge in a premium selection priced at $195, each designed to enhance the complex flavors of the dishes. Beyond wine, the cocktail menu is equally creative, featuring handcrafted drinks such as the tequila highball and the orchard sour—perfect for those looking to explore sophisticated beverage options alongside their meal.

Atmosphere and Service That Feel Like Home

Acru’s dining room is cozy and elegantly appointed, creating an intimate setting that’s perfect for a date night or special occasion. 

The staff are praised for their attentive and warm service, skillfully accommodating dietary restrictions and making each guest feel truly welcome. Many diners appreciate the balance of sophistication and comfort, where every detail—from the quality materials in the decor to the carefully timed courses—makes for an unforgettable experience.

What Makes Acru Stand Out in New York’s Culinary Scene

Each dish surprises with unique textures and temperatures that challenge traditional expectations.

At $95 for a multi-course tasting menu with options for wine pairings, Acru offers a rare combination of quality and price in New York City.

Beyond wine, the inventive cocktail menu provides perfect pairings and standalone delights for cocktail enthusiasts.

The team at Acru is known for warm hospitality and accommodating guests’ needs with professionalism and care.

Discover the unique tasting menu at ACRU in New York's West Village. Join us for an unforgettable dining experience with expertly crafted dishes!

Experience Culinary Delights at ACRU, NYC's Newest Gem

Maximize your visit to ACRU in NYC with our insider tips on dining, wine pairings, and reservations for your perfect evening out!

Top Tips for Dining at ACRU in NYC

ACRU combines Australian-inspired cuisine and seasonal ingredients at 79 MacDougal St. Dive into our story and what makes us unique!

Experience ACRU's Culinary Journey

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks and Specials

Highlights of ACRU's tasting menu

Felix

Joe's Pizza

Estela