Need a ressie in the Meatpacking District?

The Meatpacking District has turned into a meat market. Although there are so many places to go out down there, it is hard to say no. I always have a hard time finding a restaurant that can take last minute reservations. Pastis laughs in my face, Merkato 55 is booked, and Spotted Pig would prefer me to stand for 5 hours before I get a table. Can't a girl and her friend have a nice civilized dinner before they tear up the town. Enter, Fig and Olive.Located on 13th Street between 9th Avenue and Washington Street, this Mediterranean eatery revolves around olive oil (please don't say EVOO). The 5,000 square foot space has white walls covered in candles. The space is large, meaning you will get a table, but the candles add warmth and intimacy. Enough about the decor, let's get to the good stuff, FOOD! Start with some tapas for the table. Olives, cheeses, charcuterie, crostini, or any of their 4 carpaccio dishes. My two favorites are the yellow fin tuna carpaccio (with 18 year balsamic vinegar, sesame oil cilantro arugula, lemon, and marcona almonds) and the jamon serrano carpaccio (with figs, warm goat cheese, sherry vinegar, and Aguibal Arbequina Olive Oil). Grilled meats and fishes top off this healthy menu. A little wine and you are ready for a night on the town. It's the perfect meal, but I am still searching...

Fig & Olive

420 West 13th Street

Between Ninth Ave. & Washington St.

(212) 924-1200

For reservations, check out http://www.opentable.com/