World-beating burgers from Keith Mcnally

Photo: NYCGo.comWhen Keith McNally took over the 72yr old Minetta space in 2009, he may have installed fresh tile floors, an oak bar, and vampire red banquettes...Photo: Hg2NewYork.com...but he took care to ensure his Tavern would still bear the intoxicating aroma of classic New York, retaining the spot's yellowing wall murals, and b&w photos of people remembered only wizened, probably-now-ex-patrons.Photo: YaokuiThe menu won't shake you from your fever dream of bygone ages, sporting expertly executed, Franco-American offerings like veal carpaccio w/ Burgundy truffles, crispy Berkshire pig trotter, and this dry-aged cote de boeuf for two, abstemiously topped with roasted marrow bones. Photo: Tummy DiariesThe most notable nosh, though, is the Black Label label burger, a $26 blend of prime, dry-aged Creekstone ribeye, skirt, and brisket that's redolent with musty, barnyard aromas, not to mention caramelized onions. Best bet: drop by latenight ('til 1a) to grab a table and order one off of the bar menu.