The Feed first look: Charlie Bird

Sax legend Charlie "Bird" Parker's spirit is as loud as a horn blare at this West Village spot, set to open by May 24th. Hung birdcages call to mind the jazz great's nickname, and framed street-art photography flash on his role in Gotham's graffiti movement ("Bird Lives" was scrawled around town after his 1955 passing). And like jazz itself, this 60-seat restaurant blends grit with melodiousness. Share small plates like duck-egg toast and chicken liver underneath mismatched brick and exposed beams, or slink up to the marble bar for wine curated by sommelier extraordinaire Robert Bohr (Cru, Colicchio & Sons). Four-time James Beard nominee Ryan Hardy (of Aspen's acclaimed Little Nell) helms the kitchen, turning out American plates with Italian accents: suckling piglet with mostarda; house-made cappellacci alongside Greenmarket ramps and peas; and grilled Long Island black bass with olives, fennel and olio santo (California olive oil). A 50-seat garden out back is prime for people-watching rosé and oysters. 5 King St between Sixth Ave and MacDougal St, enter on Sixth Ave between Houston and King Sts (212-235-7133)