Jams

Jams Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant & décor: A trailblazer among New York City chefs, Jonathan Waxman opened the original California-inspired Jams on the Upper East Side in 1984. The first restaurant to parlay American cuisine into something with more creativity and more healthfulness than a classic diner (aka Californian cuisine), Jams was an instant hit and led the way to the influx of American clones in the city. Jams 2.0, with its brick walls and markedly industrial décor, only vaguely recalls the former version, primarily through photos of the 1980's venue and menu that line the walls and the smattering of dishes from the original.

Food & Drinks: Classic Jams selections such as the tarragon-laced chicken and seared scallops are solid choices, as are "newer" American standbys like pork chops, hamburgers and oysters, or an updated amberjack presentation with braised artichokes, blood orange and Meyer lemon aïoli. Popular starters include the pricey signature Jams pancakes, mini blinis topped with smoked salmon, caviar, red pepper and crème fraîche. An extensive wine list spanning the U.S. and Europe proposes 13 choices by the glass. Jams also serves breakfast and lunch, a convenient option for folks in this busy part of town.