Now that the calendar has turned to 2019, we happily anticipate visiting some recently opened spots around Manhattan.  Three in particular that caught our attention are Bar Veloce, Giardino 54 and Merrion Row Irish Pub.  The wine bar chain Bar Veloce just opened its sixth Manhattan location on the Upper West Side at 466 Amsterdam Avenue.  About 30 blocks south in Hells Kitchen, Giardino 54 has opened in the old ‘disiac space (400 /1/2 West 54^th Street).  We gather that Giardino 54 is part Italian restaurant / part wine bar.  Finally, just east of Times Square at 119 West 45^th Street comes Merrion Row Irish Pub.  We believe that Merrion Row may differentiate itself from, what we like to call, the “dime-a-dozen” Irish pubs in Times Square.  We’ll learn more on our visit.  As usual, we will have brief thoughts in this space after we’ve had a chance to visit these and other spots.