Located on a quaint street in the heart of New York's trendy Tribeca neighborhood lies Marc Forgione, which was known as FORGE until 2009. You'll know you've arrived at this special New American restaurant when you see the flag emblazoned with Marc Forgione's signature above the main entrance, which is flanked by an open wrought iron screen surrounding a seasonal patio. Immediately, the building's facade tells you it's no ordinary structure. And, indeed, it isn't, as the building is rich with history that adds a unique touch to the ambiance at Marc Forgione. Built in the late 1800s, it once was a butter warehouse that was part of the once thriving Washington Street Market. The butter, delivered in 100-pound blocks from New Jersey, was hoisted onto the second floor of the building and cut into smaller “family size” pieces with a large saw. Because Chef Forgione has a personal interest in the history of New York City, he has maintained the building's past as part of the restaurant's present-day personality. He kept the design, for instance, and decorated it as authentically as possible so that you see and feel the building's character when you enter it. He succeeded of course, as you are introduced to bits of history throughout the restaurant.

During the warmer months, the restaurant opens its framed glass doors, which open onto a seasonal outdoor patio at the front of the restaurant for al fresco dining. Slightly elevated, the quaint patio looks out on the quiet, tree-lined street and seats up to 20 guests amongst flower boxes filled with flowers and herbs. Custom-made glass lanterns are secured between the doors and complement nicely the patio's rectilinear wooden tables and its high-backed chairs, which accurately reflect the restaurant's interior style. In the winter, during the holidays, the wrought iron gates separating the patio from the sidewalk are decorated with small elegant lights. The main entry, which is two steps up from the street, separates the patio into two quaint areas. The east side of the patio is separated from the building's residential entry by a crosshatched wooden screen that creates semi-privacy for guests.