Brooklyn’s boutique 42 Hotel is set to elevate Williamsburg’s dining scene with the opening of Blackbird on April 22 and Evolution on April 30. Spearheaded by Chef Eric LeVine, a two-time James Beard Award nominee and protégé of the legendary Chef David Burke, Blackbird will bring his signature culinary artistry to a globally inspired gastropub and lounge offering breakfast, dinner, and brunch on Saturdays, and Sundays. Evolution, debuting just days later, will offer an intimate, chef-driven tasting menu experience that reimagines classic Brooklyn flavors with modern creativity. These anticipated openings mark Chef LeVine’s first foray into NYC’s dining scene after managing over five successful concepts in Long Island.
Drawing inspiration from his acclaimed restaurant 317 Main Street, Chef LeVine’s, Blackbird blends bold flavors with elevated comfort food, featuring playful dishes like 5-Onion Soup served in a roasted onion, Maple Roasted Carrot Loin, Grilled Croissant Avocado Toast, and BBQ Pork Croquettes. Blackbird’s craft cocktail program is equally imaginative, with creations such as the Toki-O Highball featuring Toki Whisky infused with sweet and sour cherries, clarified citrus, vanilla, and carbonation, and Chamomile SNAP with Chamomile infused vermouth blend, apple, pear, and absinthe. Guests can expect thoughtfully sourced ingredients, dynamic flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Evolution, an intimate, chef-driven dining experience from Chef Eric LeVine, will debut on April 30, offering a rotating tasting menu that celebrates Brooklyn’s rich culinary tapestry. Drawing inspiration from the borough’s iconic flavors and time-honored dishes, Evolution reimagines local favorites with inventive flair—think elevated takes on a Brighton Beach Potato Knish, Coney Island Hot Dog, and New York-Style Cheesecake. Guests will enjoy a front-row seat to LeVine’s vision, as he seamlessly blends old-world techniques with modern innovation in a uniquely immersive setting. Marking his much-anticipated fine dining debut, Evolution introduces a bold new perspective to Brooklyn’s ever-evolving restaurant scene.
“As a Brooklyn native, returning to Williamsburg to launch these two distinct concepts is incredibly special,” said Chef & Partner Eric LeVine. “From Blackbird’s globally inspired gastropub fare to Evolution’s hyper-local tasting experience, we’re creating something truly unique—two dining destinations that cater to every kind of food lover.”
Blackbird and Evolution each offer thoughtfully designed spaces that blend cozy, rustic charm with artistic flair. Blackbird features 85 seats including the lounge area within a 2,750-square-foot restaurant space, combining chic industrial elements with elegant chandeliers adorned with nostalgic Edison bulbs. The space is warm and inviting, with mirrors, ambient lighting, and a striking hand-painted mural of a woman on canvas by Yaniv Lahiji, a local artist known for his work in various NYC hotels. A standout feature is the stunning wine cellar, which showcases a collection of over 500 bottles. Evolution, a more intimate space, includes 35 seats across a 1,800-square-foot space inclusive of the seating area, an open kitchen, and a pantry prep area. The design is cozy and rustic, enhanced by candles, mirrors, and two murals byKarina Smyrnova—one depicting the evolution of the Brooklyn Bridge and the other highlighting iconic Brooklyn brownstone buildings.
Beyond weekly specials and rotating menus, Chef LeVine will engage the Williamsburg community with dynamic monthly events, including beer pairing dinners with local breweries, interactive cooking classes, and more.
Blackbird will be open seven days a week, offering breakfast from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, and from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday. Weekend brunch will be served on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Evolution will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
