The vibe at Bread – only occasionally disrupted by an overdose of demanding night crowds eating in New York on the weekends – is an encapsulation of the elements that make its neighborhood, Nolita, so chic and satisfying. In its open kitchen, an able chef staff creates remarkable Italian sandwiches using fine, fresh ingredients and heavenly bread from Balthazar Bakery, Keith McNally’s neighboring boulangerie. The simple flickering of candles sets off the scene – eye-catching local artists’ wares hung on the white walls; metallic tables, chairs, and bar; fetching waiters who never seem to tire despite the maddening crowds. Much has been made of the organic tomato soup, nicely complementing panini such as Italian tuna with lemon dressing or any of its can’t-fail combinations of Italian meats and cheeses. It’s a simple, straightforward concept. and everyone wants a piece.