Stanton Social

Multiethnic small plates, handcrafted cocktails, and late night DJ’s make the Stanton Social a trendy go-to for tapas in the Lower East Side. Established in 2005 by chef-owner Chris Santos, the restaurant has a three-level interior inspired by the 1940’s garment industry. Banquettes of suede and lizard skin are topped with belted pillows, while the illuminated wine wall has 2,000-plus bottles arranged in a herringbone pattern. Even the servers’ Mary Janes and stockings recall mid-century style. The tapas, however, are anything but old-fashioned; favorites include the French onion soup dumplings, red snapper tacos, and for brunch, the spicy lobster Benedict.