Last night I went to Abe & Arthur's, the two week old "hot spot" that used to be Lotus. Abe and Arthur's comes to us from Eugene Remme and Mark Birnbaum, the team behind the exclusive club Tenjune, and the new lounge SL. Manning the stoves is Chef Franklin Becker (Brasserie), cooking up some great modern American dishes.

The two floor space was packed when I got there at 10pm. It seemed more like a Thursday or Friday night, than a Tuesday; it was hopping! It's a gorgeous space (designed by iCrave), hip, cool, and beautiful, just like its clientele. I first took a table to myself on the second floor, but then noticed a friend of mine (editor of In Touch Weekly) sitting with another friend (via Facebook) of mine down below, so I joined them. I would like to think I was the only celebrity there, but alas, to my right was Mickey Rourke, and to my left was Harvey Keitel.

I just tried two dishes briefly: the meatballs ($13) and a side of mac and cheese ($10). The meatballs were tasty and delicious, sweet and with a touch of spiciness; the sauce was spot on. The mac and cheese was perfect and addicitve.

If you are looking to drink and dine within the true scene of NYC, this is the spot to do it in. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself in Page 6 the following day; it's bound to happen.

Abe & Arthur's
409 W. 14th Street (bet. 9th and Washington)
New York, NY 10014
212-242-5272
www.abeandarthursrestaurant.com