My Grandparents are very particular about where they eat. When you have been on this planet as long as they have, I can't blame a person for saying "this what I want, this is where I'm going, no I will not try something new". Paul and Jimmy's also happens to be around the corner from my Aunt's apartment where she's been for the last 30 years. It's traditional Italian, except for Penna alla Vodka, which I love, but is about as Italian as pepperoni. I also found out recently that my favorite dish, tortellini della nonna was taken off the menu and replaced with a similar, yet different enough dish. So, I'm a little sad, but I guess I'll resolve myself to having the vodka sauce, please.
Unfortunately, Paul and Jimmy's has been underneath a scaffold for the last few years due to construction in the brownstone above them, which asides from breaking some laws, is a shame since their outdoor seating is so lovely. The inside of the restaurant has a gigantic mural on the back wall, which reminds me of the touristy restaurants in Italy. Maybe that's what this place is, but I like it. The wait staff is always so kind and they don't rush you. Again, that could be attributed to dining here usually around 5pm, but regardless I've always felt like my meal is something to be enjoyed, not rushed through. There are some large tables in the back, so it's nice to go with a big group. Note, it's not family style.
WHAT TO BITE? Since my favorite dish was cut and replaced with the Tortellini della Panna, I'm going to go to another classic: Pollo all Scarpariello, $20.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Pure Food & Wine, 54 Irving Place (btwn 17 & 18)
I was a vegetarian for a long time. Not a phase lasting a year or two, not a "sometimes" vegetarian, but a full out, ovo-lacto vegetarian. My mother did not dote on this new found obession. She made one dish for the family, and if it had meat, I could make something for myself. Unfortunately, this was in the 90's through early 2000, before vegetarian was "cool" and when there was only 1 brand of soy products that could only be found at a trip to the local health food store. I had tons of cookbooks teaching me how to compensate for the nutrients a healthy diet normally gets from meat, and I tried my hand at a lot of delicious meat substitutes. Then I went to college and started phasing back in fish, then slowly chicken, and during law school, red meat (which I still really only eat out at a restaurant or dinner parties where it's being served). I still incorporate a lot of soy into my diet (I love Smartdogs, Boca Burgers and Morningstar Farms "Sausage" Patties) and when the raw food diet hit New York City, Pure Food and Wine was something I just needed to try.
First off, the space where Pure Food & Wine is was once where I, along with Julia Roberts, used to get our hair done. Not because it was some place fancy, not because I have unruly hair, but because again, it was across the street from where my Aunt lived. So when it turned into a restaurant, we decided to check it out. It had just opened, so there were not a lot of diners in there, but I remember having red wine. I might actually have been too young to drink, but I was with my Aunt, who could be my mother, so I don't think they cared. Then the dishes came out. I loved mine. It was so creative, it was so crunchy (I hate mushy veggies) and so full of flavor. My Aunt did not. I don't know if she's been back since. I decided to return a few years later with some work-friends when the outdoor patio was open. Again, I thought my meal was delicious, I do find it's not a crowd pleaser so, don't take picky eaters here. It's also a little pricey, especially for food that isn't cook and doesn't use expensive meat products. I don't find that so awful, because at least you're putting good food into your body instead of (delicious) fried bites or (delicious) nachos.
WHAT TO BITE? Sweet Corn & Cashew Tamales with Chili Spiced Portabello, $26 and the Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart, $16
First off, the space where Pure Food & Wine is was once where I, along with Julia Roberts, used to get our hair done. Not because it was some place fancy, not because I have unruly hair, but because again, it was across the street from where my Aunt lived. So when it turned into a restaurant, we decided to check it out. It had just opened, so there were not a lot of diners in there, but I remember having red wine. I might actually have been too young to drink, but I was with my Aunt, who could be my mother, so I don't think they cared. Then the dishes came out. I loved mine. It was so creative, it was so crunchy (I hate mushy veggies) and so full of flavor. My Aunt did not. I don't know if she's been back since. I decided to return a few years later with some work-friends when the outdoor patio was open. Again, I thought my meal was delicious, I do find it's not a crowd pleaser so, don't take picky eaters here. It's also a little pricey, especially for food that isn't cook and doesn't use expensive meat products. I don't find that so awful, because at least you're putting good food into your body instead of (delicious) fried bites or (delicious) nachos.
WHAT TO BITE? Sweet Corn & Cashew Tamales with Chili Spiced Portabello, $26 and the Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart, $16
Ethos, 495 3rd Ave (btwn 33 & 34th)
I came to Ethos for the first time with a friend when we were just wandering the area. It looked go, so we went inside for a "light" meal. Greek food is great for that. Since that first time, I've been back a handful of times with friends and family and never have been disappointed. The restaurant has large windows which open onto the street during the warmer months, and the high ceilings and exposed brick walls dotted with paintings and greek pottery make it unlike many restaurants in the area.
I almost always try something new when I go there, but I always start with tzatzki. Theirs is one of the best I've had, it's so tangy with the perfect balance of lemon and herbs. Their pita bread is also fantastic, definitely not what you get at the grocery store. Not even close. They bring you your check and dessert, which I think is one of the most fantastic things restaurants can do (even if it means they pad the prices a little to compensate) and, I'd love to go here with someone greek who can tell me what it actually is. It's a little cake, drizzled with honey, that's fluffy and filled with some sort of creme/custard. That's a poor description, but regardless, it's delicious and something I definitely look forward to at the end of my meal.
NOTE: There is another location in Midtown East (51st & 1st)
WHAT TO BITE: Tzatzki, $6.50 to start, charcoal grilled whole fish, $25.
I almost always try something new when I go there, but I always start with tzatzki. Theirs is one of the best I've had, it's so tangy with the perfect balance of lemon and herbs. Their pita bread is also fantastic, definitely not what you get at the grocery store. Not even close. They bring you your check and dessert, which I think is one of the most fantastic things restaurants can do (even if it means they pad the prices a little to compensate) and, I'd love to go here with someone greek who can tell me what it actually is. It's a little cake, drizzled with honey, that's fluffy and filled with some sort of creme/custard. That's a poor description, but regardless, it's delicious and something I definitely look forward to at the end of my meal.
NOTE: There is another location in Midtown East (51st & 1st)
WHAT TO BITE: Tzatzki, $6.50 to start, charcoal grilled whole fish, $25.
Session 73, 1359 1st Ave (@ 73rd)
I forget exactly how I came across Session 73. Two very dear and amazing friends lived around the corner from it, so I'll give them credit for stumbling upon it when exploring the neighborhood. Session 73 is an Upper East Side bar without carrying the stigma attached to some of its neighbors. It's velvet curtains and plush couches give it a lounge atmosphere, but it's long bar, stage for live music, and "private" back bar area make it a great oasis in the land of beer pong and overcrowded frat parties.
I've been for dinner numerous times, and the tapas style lends itself to late dinners that quickly turn into dance parties. Ranging from Asian to Southwestern, the food has all those familiar bar bites you'd like to have. A little more expensive than I'd like to spend when traveling so far from home, but the all-in-one ambiance makes up for it. Friends have danced on their bar, friends have made out next thier bar, friends have taken pictures of drunk girls falling asleeping at their bar. The bands range from awesome to not, so find a good one, get there early, enjoy some food and then dance (or sway) the night away.
WHAT TO BITE? Eggplant Parm Fritters, $10
I've been for dinner numerous times, and the tapas style lends itself to late dinners that quickly turn into dance parties. Ranging from Asian to Southwestern, the food has all those familiar bar bites you'd like to have. A little more expensive than I'd like to spend when traveling so far from home, but the all-in-one ambiance makes up for it. Friends have danced on their bar, friends have made out next thier bar, friends have taken pictures of drunk girls falling asleeping at their bar. The bands range from awesome to not, so find a good one, get there early, enjoy some food and then dance (or sway) the night away.
WHAT TO BITE? Eggplant Parm Fritters, $10
JG Melon, 1291 3rd Ave (@ 74th)
People who have lived on the Upper East Side for years rave about this place, but a lot of transient "New Yorkers" brush off the wait and decide to go elswhere to satiate their burger cravings. Well, JG Melon's has a long wait, but trust me, it's worth it. The burgers and fries are the best you'll find in the area, and some say in the city (I'm not going to weigh in on the Best Burger debate, having just started eating red meat a few years ago). But not only that, it's such a neighborhood gem, there's a friendliness between the servers, the patrons, even the owers, that is rare to find in dining these days.
Yes the wait is long, but that's because when you get a table, all you want to do is sit and enjoy your food. Slowly. How food is supposed to be enjoyed. During the warmer months there are tables on the sidewalk, not too many, but it helps alleviate the crowd. Inside you have a typical pub, nothing fancy, but with large tables that can be pulled together for groups celebrating a post-softball team victory.
Oh, one downside is that they are cash only, but with prices so low, you won't need much more than a $20.
WHAT TO BITE? Cheeseburger, $8.75 and Pecan Pie, $5.95
Yes the wait is long, but that's because when you get a table, all you want to do is sit and enjoy your food. Slowly. How food is supposed to be enjoyed. During the warmer months there are tables on the sidewalk, not too many, but it helps alleviate the crowd. Inside you have a typical pub, nothing fancy, but with large tables that can be pulled together for groups celebrating a post-softball team victory.
Oh, one downside is that they are cash only, but with prices so low, you won't need much more than a $20.
WHAT TO BITE? Cheeseburger, $8.75 and Pecan Pie, $5.95
Hi Life, 1503 2nd Ave (@ 76th)
I had to been to Hi Life with my friend one night when she watned fish and I wanted a burger. Since it's a little more difficult to find a place that has both of those things, let alone does both well, we stumbled upon a new bar that opened in the area when we were both living there. Our meals were great, the service was fantastic (despite their lack of honey mustard, which understanably really bothers my friend).
We returned again later, this time with her boyfriend who was in town visiting and sat in a small area they have in the front of the restaurant that is set up more like a lounge. Instead of a table and chairs there are a few benches and small tables that you can order cocktails and small plates to. I really enjoy when restaurants do this, because a lot of times I only want something small to eat, or I'm going with someone who wants food but I've already eaten. Anyway, this little lounge area has ample seating, enough for a few groups of people and faces Second Avenue, so it's fantastic for people watching (especially drunk people watching after happy hour when people are crawling home to continue drinking on their couch/in the shower, before venturing back out to play beer pong at Paddy O's). We happened to be privy to what I find all too often in New York, the awkward First Date. This couple sitting in the area with us certainly had met online and most definitely were having their first in-person interaction. The three of us sat their, analyzing the body language, realizing the guy was defintely not feeling his dining companion and was trying to find ways to speed up the remainder of their date.
Our food came, which was a happy distraction. The restaurant has a lounge menu, which includes pigs in a blanket, so we dove into those. There are also rotating food and drink specials all week, from half priced sushi to prime rib dinner to $5 martinis at happy hour (4-7pm).
WHAT TO BITE: Yellowfin Tuna with Wasabi Crust + 2 sides, $18.95.
We returned again later, this time with her boyfriend who was in town visiting and sat in a small area they have in the front of the restaurant that is set up more like a lounge. Instead of a table and chairs there are a few benches and small tables that you can order cocktails and small plates to. I really enjoy when restaurants do this, because a lot of times I only want something small to eat, or I'm going with someone who wants food but I've already eaten. Anyway, this little lounge area has ample seating, enough for a few groups of people and faces Second Avenue, so it's fantastic for people watching (especially drunk people watching after happy hour when people are crawling home to continue drinking on their couch/in the shower, before venturing back out to play beer pong at Paddy O's). We happened to be privy to what I find all too often in New York, the awkward First Date. This couple sitting in the area with us certainly had met online and most definitely were having their first in-person interaction. The three of us sat their, analyzing the body language, realizing the guy was defintely not feeling his dining companion and was trying to find ways to speed up the remainder of their date.
Our food came, which was a happy distraction. The restaurant has a lounge menu, which includes pigs in a blanket, so we dove into those. There are also rotating food and drink specials all week, from half priced sushi to prime rib dinner to $5 martinis at happy hour (4-7pm).
WHAT TO BITE: Yellowfin Tuna with Wasabi Crust + 2 sides, $18.95.
Caffe Buon Gusto, 236 E. 77th (btwn 2nd & 3rd)
After studying abroad, one of my traveling companies and I would get lonesome for the relaxing evenings we had overlooking Rome and eating mountains of pasta. Such moods would often lead us to Caffe Buon Gusto, where you can compliment any pasta with any sauce (much like the famed Pastarita Pizzerito "chain" in Italy). The food is fantastic, the atmosphere at both locations is relaxing, and the service is always wonderful... especially when your dining companion attempts to set you on fire.
Often times I'll complain that restaurants in New York try to cram in too many tables. Then I remember that life is a business, and they need to serve more customers. Caffe Buon Gusto is a small restaurant, where the table generally consists of a bread basket, candle, oil and vinegar, your plates and glasses and not an inch of visible tablecloth. Now, the delicious bread basket has a fatal flaw. No, not that it magically gets refilled, but because they line it (or at least that day they did) with a paper napkin. Well folks, I'm pretty sure you can see where this story is going. Candle + paper napkin + small table + fearful friend = blow it out in the direction away from fearful friend and closer to me. Needless to say, we all had a great laugh after and were returned a bread basket (napkin free) and continued our evening.
While I have only ordered a non-pasta entree once, I hear that when you have it delivered (as many of my fellow classmates in law school did) they provide you with your entree, a side of pasta, a small salad and bread for the same price. Pretty fantastic, I think. What I go for however, is the pasta. It's pasta here, not macaroni. The other day I caught myself saying I never had good carbonara in the United States. I think I might have tricked myself into remembering this falsehood because carbonara is so deliciously bad for you. But when in Rome (or the Upper East Side), one can indulge in a fresh pasta complimented by a lavishly rich sauce, or any of their other numerous sauces (my flaming dining companion loves their pesto). You can also add on some protein to the pasta dish, I go for the sausage. If a seemingly endless bowl of pasta isn't your thing, try one of their delicious eggplant dishes (they do the trifecta: parmigiana, rollatina or bolognese). And you'll most certainly want to leave room for dessert. Great for a date, or an intimate dinner, but I wouldn't go here with a terribly large party unless you plan on renting out the place.
PS - This location only takes Amex so, Visa and Mastercard holders, stop bye the ATM first.
WHAT TO BITE? Carbonara over your choice of fresh pasta, $11.95
Often times I'll complain that restaurants in New York try to cram in too many tables. Then I remember that life is a business, and they need to serve more customers. Caffe Buon Gusto is a small restaurant, where the table generally consists of a bread basket, candle, oil and vinegar, your plates and glasses and not an inch of visible tablecloth. Now, the delicious bread basket has a fatal flaw. No, not that it magically gets refilled, but because they line it (or at least that day they did) with a paper napkin. Well folks, I'm pretty sure you can see where this story is going. Candle + paper napkin + small table + fearful friend = blow it out in the direction away from fearful friend and closer to me. Needless to say, we all had a great laugh after and were returned a bread basket (napkin free) and continued our evening.
While I have only ordered a non-pasta entree once, I hear that when you have it delivered (as many of my fellow classmates in law school did) they provide you with your entree, a side of pasta, a small salad and bread for the same price. Pretty fantastic, I think. What I go for however, is the pasta. It's pasta here, not macaroni. The other day I caught myself saying I never had good carbonara in the United States. I think I might have tricked myself into remembering this falsehood because carbonara is so deliciously bad for you. But when in Rome (or the Upper East Side), one can indulge in a fresh pasta complimented by a lavishly rich sauce, or any of their other numerous sauces (my flaming dining companion loves their pesto). You can also add on some protein to the pasta dish, I go for the sausage. If a seemingly endless bowl of pasta isn't your thing, try one of their delicious eggplant dishes (they do the trifecta: parmigiana, rollatina or bolognese). And you'll most certainly want to leave room for dessert. Great for a date, or an intimate dinner, but I wouldn't go here with a terribly large party unless you plan on renting out the place.
PS - This location only takes Amex so, Visa and Mastercard holders, stop bye the ATM first.
WHAT TO BITE? Carbonara over your choice of fresh pasta, $11.95
Sala Thai, 1718 2nd Ave (btwn 89th & 90th)
Growing up, the only food from Asia I was exposed to was the local Chinese restaurant, and once a vietnamese place near the WTC. Dad sometimes ordered sushi when we went out as a family for Chinese food, but that was really it. So when I decided to try ordering dinner from Sala Thai, I wasn't entirely sure what I was in for. Let's end the story simply with, I alternated ordering from here and China East every Sunday for about 2 years. Always quick to bring my delivery, always friendly on the phone, and always a good meal. I've never dined here, and frankly until I looked up the location to write this blog I didn't even know where they were located, but now I feel bad because the poor delivery guy had to either walk up/ride his bike via the giant hill connecting Second and Third Avenues at this point on the upper east side. But I tipped him well, so I'm sure it wasn't too terrible of a burden.
When you need Thai in your pj's and you're on the upper east side, give sala a call. You'll be happy you did.
WHAT TO BITE? Chicken Cashewnut, $10.95
Milano Market, 1582 3rd Ave (@ 89th)
Milano Market might be the number one reason I would move back to the upper east side. Before there was Buon Italian in Chelsea Market, and way before there was Batali's infamous Eataly, there was Milano Market. When I craved Italian food, especially before meeting friends and sunning in the park, we'd stop here and get some food. They have everything from cured olives, to delicious meats, fresh cheeses, wonderful bread and tons of prepared food that was most certainly prepared with time and detail.
Not only can you walk in here and get just about any Italian delicacy, but they have the basics too. Like San Benedetto orange 'soda' which is the total opposite of sunkist but way better than organgina. There isn't anywhere to eat, but that's ok, all the more room to stuff the store with a massive selection of mulino bianco cookies. Yum.
WHAT TO BITE? Go for the pre-made dishes, they vary in price, but one of my favorites is the fusilli ricotta salata, $4.49/lb.
Amber, 1406 3rd Ave (@ 80th)
One of my good friends gets excited every time Amber is mentioned. I sometimes forget in the city of sushi places every corner, how good the sushi is at Amber. Some complain that it's expensive, but good sushi should be a few bucks more. When I go out for sushi, especially when I don't know the reputation of the restaurant, I get a roll, just in case the fish isn't so great, the other items can mask the taste (or lack thereof). When I go to Amber, I get sashimi because the fish is that good. If I get sushi a la carte, it's also fantastic because they put a small amount of rice under the perfectly cut piece of fish (Alton Brown would absolutely approve!)
I went last night for dinner and went for the sushi a la carte, spanish mackrel, salmon and yellowfin. Last night the salmon was wonderful, nay I should say it was beautiful. Note, the rock shrimp tempura, which I've had only a handful of times but was craving last night was a little disappointing. I've also gone to Amber's sister restaurant, Aquamarine where I almost always get the Yaki Udon, not because the sushi is subpar but because the udon is so wonderful. I've been meaning to try Amber's udon but the sushi is just so superior (and the groupons to eat there that appear so frequently) make it such a treat.
The decor in all of the Amber restaurants range, but it's definitely on the trendy side, a little dark and comprised usually of some sort of natural element, be it a giant stone waterfall or exotic plants an flowers. It's great for a date, with friends, with family, with large groups or small. Enjoy some tea, enjoy the lovely staff, and most importantly, enjoy the sushi!
WHAT TO BITE? If you can't take advantage of the great lunch special, try the sushi/sashimi a la carte, most traditional pieces average $3
Sarabeth's East, 1295 Madison Ave (@ 92nd)
Sarabeth's is a New York brunch institution. Famous for its jams which you can buy in stores across the country, it also has a fantastic brunch. I've been to a few of their locations, but the one on the upper east side is my favorite because there is a small area upstairs where you can get a table. Makes it more private and quiet, and is great if you're having an intimate breakfast party (or birthday brunch!).
On the weekends there will be a wait just about as bad as Balthazar, but it is certainly worth it. Sarabeth's takes a country home spin on its meals, you have a few options, but it's basic food dressed up and complimented with a fresh baked muffin or croissant. Great place for Mother's Day brunch, or a girls weekend. The staff is friendly, though a little overwhelmed at times, but will help you out with whatever you need. Stop in at any of their locations with an appetite and you won't be disappointed.
WHAT TO BITE? Country breakfast, $14.95, with a pumpkin muffin.
Jackson Hole, 1611 2d Ave., (btwn 83 & 84th)
Jackson Hole apparently has some of the largest burgers in Manhattan. I believe this, not because I've eaten one, but because I've been at the restaurant and seen it happen. This was part of the 15+ years of my life when I wasn't eating red meat, so I came here with a friend and had a chicken sandwich. It wasn't anything fantastic to write home about, but it was massive. The side of fries was massive too. I'm not sure who they think they are feeding, but it is great for sharing with a friend or loved one, because you probably shouldn't eat the entire thing. Unless you're training for an eating competition, or if you lost a bet at Mad River the night before.
It's a no frills place, with some tacky decorations on the wall but simple (huge) burgers. Give them a shot, see what they are like, and feel free to report back. I should return now that I eat red meat, but with all the burger joints out there, I have a lot to get to!
WHAT TO BITE? Beefburger platter, $9.90.
Effy's Cafe, 1638 3rd Ave (btwn 91st & 92nd)
I used to pass Effy's Cafe on the way home from the gym, and there's nothing the body craves more after a spinning class than carbohydrates. Though I make it a point not to take my wallet with me to the gym for that exact reason, often I'd shower, think about my next meal, and walk over and take a seat at Effy's. First of all, they serve breakfast all day, which I personally find fantastic. Second of all, it's an adorable little cafe with some of the best people watching a person could hope for. And third, it's not a Starbucks, so I'm happy to support it.
You can pick up or sit in the cafe, but be warned, on the weekend's its tough to find a spot. The good thing is Central Park isn't too far away, so you can get your food and then take a seat near Jackie O's reservoir.
WHAT TO BITE? Spinach quiche, $6.95 or the Tel Aviv Salad, $7.95.
WHAT TO BITE? Spinach quiche, $6.95 or the Tel Aviv Salad, $7.95.
Brother Jimmy's, 1485 2nd Ave (btwn 77 & 78th)
If you went to an ACC college, at some point you will find yourself at a Brother Jimmy's. When I first moved to the city, a friend of mine would organize saturday game days at the upper east side location, which I believe is considered "the original". I also had the pleasure of living 2 blocks away from the upper UPPER east side's bait shop on 92nd and 3rd, which my roommate and I found hilarious to visit in our PJs one night.
Brother Jimmy's is loud, and if there is a remotely interesting game on it's going to be crowded, but if you are fortunate enough to get a table facing a TV playing your game, you will not be disappointed. Aside from the $2 PBRs, Brother Jimmy's also does a swamp water, which is a ridiculously sugary mixture of various mixes, alcohols and who knows what, doused in ice and then presented to the table with about 20 straws and a plastic alligator. The waitress blows a whistle as she brings it to the table and everyone hurridly sucks away only to find out 2 minutes later it was probably the worst idea they'd had in a long time. Not to say I didn't have my fair share of swamp waters, but when you're 23 you're not exactly making the best life decisions.
Just about any night of the week is going to be hopping, so it's good to go with friends, large groups, or even a date if she's into that (and there are many of us who are!). The Bait Shop has a huge back room great for alumni gatherings, and the lexington avenue and union square locations have some outdoor seating.
WHAT TO BITE? Nachos, $12.50, to accompany your Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwich, $10.50 - when asked your choice of side, steer clear of the fries and find your way to the mac n' cheese.
Brother Jimmy's is loud, and if there is a remotely interesting game on it's going to be crowded, but if you are fortunate enough to get a table facing a TV playing your game, you will not be disappointed. Aside from the $2 PBRs, Brother Jimmy's also does a swamp water, which is a ridiculously sugary mixture of various mixes, alcohols and who knows what, doused in ice and then presented to the table with about 20 straws and a plastic alligator. The waitress blows a whistle as she brings it to the table and everyone hurridly sucks away only to find out 2 minutes later it was probably the worst idea they'd had in a long time. Not to say I didn't have my fair share of swamp waters, but when you're 23 you're not exactly making the best life decisions.
Just about any night of the week is going to be hopping, so it's good to go with friends, large groups, or even a date if she's into that (and there are many of us who are!). The Bait Shop has a huge back room great for alumni gatherings, and the lexington avenue and union square locations have some outdoor seating.
WHAT TO BITE? Nachos, $12.50, to accompany your Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwich, $10.50 - when asked your choice of side, steer clear of the fries and find your way to the mac n' cheese.
The Barking Dog, 150 E. 34th (btwn Lex & 3rd)
My dad and I ventured to the Barking Dog around St. Patrick's Day because I'm pretty sure he wanted some Irish food and I'm also pretty sure Mom was out of town and making Sheppard's pie for one is entirely too daunting a task.
You have to be a dog lover to like this place because plain and simple, they let dogs dine there too. With so many buildings in Manhattan no longer allowing dogs (or only allowing them to be a measly 20 pounds), it's nice to find a place where not only are dogs allowed, but are welcomed.
Service overall, especially on a busy Saturday brunch can be a little slow, and I've had friends tell of mixed reviews with the food, but I've always had a good meal. As crowded as it gets it's never too loud, and the Murray Hill location has some outdoor seating which is especially nice if you're with your puppy (and yes, they will forever be puppies).
WHAT TO BITE? Wild Mushroom Omelet w/ hashbrowns, $10.95. I forget if my dad liked his...
You have to be a dog lover to like this place because plain and simple, they let dogs dine there too. With so many buildings in Manhattan no longer allowing dogs (or only allowing them to be a measly 20 pounds), it's nice to find a place where not only are dogs allowed, but are welcomed.
Service overall, especially on a busy Saturday brunch can be a little slow, and I've had friends tell of mixed reviews with the food, but I've always had a good meal. As crowded as it gets it's never too loud, and the Murray Hill location has some outdoor seating which is especially nice if you're with your puppy (and yes, they will forever be puppies).
WHAT TO BITE? Wild Mushroom Omelet w/ hashbrowns, $10.95. I forget if my dad liked his...
Paquitos, 175 3rd Ave (btwn 16th & 17th)
Mexican food growing up was either when mom had taco night, or if the family happened to be in Connecticut and stopped in at Pancho Gringos. When I left for college, I was introduced to "fast-food" Mexican (I didn't have Taco Bell until I was in my 20's) when Chipotle joined my culinary conquests. It was wonderful, and I even made sure to stop at the ONLY one in Manhattan, at the time, when I was home over winter/summer break. The line would go out the door, even when they weren't giving out free burritos, and it still does today. This is not a post to hate on Chipotle, I will forever love you, but you lack nachos and sometimes, that's what I want with my tacos.
For some reason I was dying to have a good tamale and decided to try the hole in the wall next to my apartment, because my hole-in-the-wall Chinese place had turned out exceptionally well. Paquitos, with a few locations in the city (link goes to the one in the East Village that has a full bar and outdoor seating) was exactly what I was looking for. I went in for a tamale and came out with a small Mexican-American feast. Their pico de gallo is the freshest, most flavorful topping I've ever had and their menu, only about half of it is shown online, is always growing. The portions are massive, a burritos and nachos can easily serve two, and they are absolutely accommodating when it comes to substitutions. Oh and the sweet plantains, though they don't always have them, are done just right. It's a no frills place that has exactly what you're looking for, even if you didn't know you were looking for it. The Third Avenue location has ample seating inside, and although I usually eat at home, you could definitely sit there and devour your food, I don't think anyone would mind.
WHAT TO BITE? Carne asada burrito, $6.75 and nachos (add pico de gallo!), $3.95.
For some reason I was dying to have a good tamale and decided to try the hole in the wall next to my apartment, because my hole-in-the-wall Chinese place had turned out exceptionally well. Paquitos, with a few locations in the city (link goes to the one in the East Village that has a full bar and outdoor seating) was exactly what I was looking for. I went in for a tamale and came out with a small Mexican-American feast. Their pico de gallo is the freshest, most flavorful topping I've ever had and their menu, only about half of it is shown online, is always growing. The portions are massive, a burritos and nachos can easily serve two, and they are absolutely accommodating when it comes to substitutions. Oh and the sweet plantains, though they don't always have them, are done just right. It's a no frills place that has exactly what you're looking for, even if you didn't know you were looking for it. The Third Avenue location has ample seating inside, and although I usually eat at home, you could definitely sit there and devour your food, I don't think anyone would mind.
WHAT TO BITE? Carne asada burrito, $6.75 and nachos (add pico de gallo!), $3.95.
The Pump, 80 Pine Street (btwn Pearl & Water)
I had my first meal at The Pump a few years ago when I was working at a law firm in midtown. I probably ordered the wrong thing because I didn't find it all that appealing. Now that I work downtown, there is one across the street from my office (yay) that I live at, especially now with the bad weather.
What The Pump does is what there should be more of in New York City. They take good food and keeps it healthy so you don't have to do all the work. I eat breakfast at home, but if I didn't, I'd come here. Egg whites are par for the course and the seasonal muffins they have keep me going all morning (for those mornings when I'm too lazy to cook for myself). Lunch is my favorite. The concept is, you pick a protein (spicy bison meatballs, oven roasted turkey, chicken breast, beef or tofu) served in a plate with rice (or a veg), in a low-carb wrap, or as a salad, and add on your veggies (seasonal veggies + tons of others), add some healthy fats, squirt on a little sauce and there you have it. All the veggies have fantastic flavors as they are either grilled, roasted, or mixed with fresh herbs, and the sauces steer far away from the fat/calorie contents you find in a lot of dishes.
WHAT TO BITE? Get a bison plate over brown rice (or herbed spaghetti squash if in season), tomatoes with basil, caramelized peppers and onions topped with grass-fed cheddar cheese, some sweet red hot sauce, $11.25 and devoured in under 2 minutes.
What The Pump does is what there should be more of in New York City. They take good food and keeps it healthy so you don't have to do all the work. I eat breakfast at home, but if I didn't, I'd come here. Egg whites are par for the course and the seasonal muffins they have keep me going all morning (for those mornings when I'm too lazy to cook for myself). Lunch is my favorite. The concept is, you pick a protein (spicy bison meatballs, oven roasted turkey, chicken breast, beef or tofu) served in a plate with rice (or a veg), in a low-carb wrap, or as a salad, and add on your veggies (seasonal veggies + tons of others), add some healthy fats, squirt on a little sauce and there you have it. All the veggies have fantastic flavors as they are either grilled, roasted, or mixed with fresh herbs, and the sauces steer far away from the fat/calorie contents you find in a lot of dishes.
WHAT TO BITE? Get a bison plate over brown rice (or herbed spaghetti squash if in season), tomatoes with basil, caramelized peppers and onions topped with grass-fed cheddar cheese, some sweet red hot sauce, $11.25 and devoured in under 2 minutes.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Spice, 1411 2nd Ave. (btwn 73 & 74)
I love spicy food. It might not love me back, but I enjoy eating spicy food all year round. One of my standard dinner spots is Spice. They are located in just about every neighborhood in the city and provide an affordable meal in a slightly-trendy setting. While all of the locations varry in size and location, the one I frequented the most was while was living on the upper east side. Definitely able to seat a large group of people but also small enough to remain intimate. Their biggest location in just south of Union Square on 13th Street, but be forwarned there is likely going to be a wait thanks to all those NYU kids.
Spice also has some fantastic drinks. A lychee martini is around $5 and worth every penny, unless of course you don't like lychee. Spice is also good for a group where one person might not like thai but is willing to try it, as the menu is pretty expansive.
WHAT TO BITE? Crispy Calamari Salad, $6 and Drunk Man Noodle, $11
Spice also has some fantastic drinks. A lychee martini is around $5 and worth every penny, unless of course you don't like lychee. Spice is also good for a group where one person might not like thai but is willing to try it, as the menu is pretty expansive.
WHAT TO BITE? Crispy Calamari Salad, $6 and Drunk Man Noodle, $11
Vnyl, 102 8th Ave (@ 15th street)
Sometimes for dinner you feel like eating out without having to fuss with a restaurant. You want a home cooked feeling meal without just sitting at the counter eating a bowl of mac n' cheese at Smac. That's when I go to Vynl in Chelsea (also with a location in Hells Kitchen that is just as welcoming). They have an expansive menu ranging from Asian to traditional American, so whatever you're craving, they are likely to have it, or at least a version of it you've never thought of trying before.
I find I come here more with people who are watching their weight because it's easy to find something "light" without just eating a salad, and without compromising other diner's meals. They also always have a seasonal drink special at happy hour which can't be passed up. The ambiance is based on, you guessed it, vinyl records, and each bathroom has a theme based on a musician (the Cher bathroom on the UES location - now closed - was actually my favorite!) The Chelsea location had Glee viewing parties this year, and always has a concert playing on the wall next to the bar.
WHAT TO BITE? BBQ Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich, $15
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
The Garage, 99 7th Ave. (btwn W. 4th & Bleecker)
For my mom's birthday one year, the family all headed down to the West Village for jazz brunch at The Garage. There are a lot of places in New York where you can have brunch, and there are a lot of places where you can listen to jazz. . . and there are a lot of places where you can partake at both at the same time. But nothing says summer in the city than sitting outside, with the widows open, listening to jazz and having a constant flow of alcohol to your table.
I've been back to The Garage numerous times with friends. It's delicious food, they take reservations, and it's an affordable boozy brunch. Whether I've sat at the bar, at a table inside, or out on the sidewalk, it has been a truly wonderful experience. It's also a great place to take out of town guests because you can walk off your breakfast in just about any direction, especially now that the West Side greenway is open!
I've been back to The Garage numerous times with friends. It's delicious food, they take reservations, and it's an affordable boozy brunch. Whether I've sat at the bar, at a table inside, or out on the sidewalk, it has been a truly wonderful experience. It's also a great place to take out of town guests because you can walk off your breakfast in just about any direction, especially now that the West Side greenway is open!
WHAT TO BITE? The French Vanilla Bean Soaked French Toast, $15.95 (+$6 for unlimited mimosas, screwdrivers or bloody marys)
Golden Unicorn, 18 E. Broadway (@ Catherine Street)
I was first introduced to Dim Sum after my last final of law school, and since then, I was hooked. While there are numerous places to go in Chinatown, and all probably of similar caliber, when you know which lady pushes the good cart of dumplings, you just go with what you know. The Golden Unicorn became that place for me.
They don't take reservations, so on the weekend a large party can have a wait of about 20 minutes, but trust me, it's worth it. The more people that go, the more dishes they cart out of the kitchen. While the three floor restaurant is open until 11pm, dim sum only goes until 3pm on the weekdays, 4pm on the weekends. The earlier the better though because, unless you have a hankering for chicken feet, the dishes fly off the cart quicker than they can stamp your card. Also, you don't want to take a picky eater here, as the women pushing the carts generally cannot give you a description of what the food is. You just eat it, and 99% of the time, it's delicious.
I would recommend going here with a larger group of people so as to try more dishes, but mazel to the couple who goes alone on a Sunday morning (and yes, that has been me). They have everything from pan fried dumplings, to steamed dumplings, to steamed or baked buns, to taro cakes and spring rolls. You can even get some steamed vegetables, a duck pancake made tableside or fried rice. Golden Unicorn also has a fantastic traditional Chinese menu, which you can order from if you don't stuff yourself with dim sum first (but, you will).
WHAT TO BITE? Try the shrimp and spinach dumpling, 3 for $3.25 or the baked pork bun, 3 for $2.95.
They don't take reservations, so on the weekend a large party can have a wait of about 20 minutes, but trust me, it's worth it. The more people that go, the more dishes they cart out of the kitchen. While the three floor restaurant is open until 11pm, dim sum only goes until 3pm on the weekdays, 4pm on the weekends. The earlier the better though because, unless you have a hankering for chicken feet, the dishes fly off the cart quicker than they can stamp your card. Also, you don't want to take a picky eater here, as the women pushing the carts generally cannot give you a description of what the food is. You just eat it, and 99% of the time, it's delicious.
I would recommend going here with a larger group of people so as to try more dishes, but mazel to the couple who goes alone on a Sunday morning (and yes, that has been me). They have everything from pan fried dumplings, to steamed dumplings, to steamed or baked buns, to taro cakes and spring rolls. You can even get some steamed vegetables, a duck pancake made tableside or fried rice. Golden Unicorn also has a fantastic traditional Chinese menu, which you can order from if you don't stuff yourself with dim sum first (but, you will).
WHAT TO BITE? Try the shrimp and spinach dumpling, 3 for $3.25 or the baked pork bun, 3 for $2.95.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Pete's Tavern, 129 E. 18th St. (@ Irving Pl.)
I've been coming to Pete's Tavern since I can remember. My Aunt lives across the street so, when we were kids, our dining options were limited to the area near her apartment, or the area near FAO Schwartz. Pete's is where you go for a no-fuss meal, be it a pot of mussels, a burger, or my personal favorite, brunch.
I know there are a few (crazy) people out there that have a huge disdain for brunch. I am not one of them. Growing up, and still to this day, Christmas is centered around brunch. You got to have the sugary cereal, cinnamon buns and my favorite, bacon. I'm an eggs kind of girl, so a cobb salad marries those breakfast flavors and beefs it up a little bit. There is the bacon, egg and cheese, all on my plate, in a slightly different medium, but delicious all the same.
I was challenged once that Pete's Tavern didn't have a Cobb Salad. I was told I was crazy, that I was mixing up my restaurant and dismissed as not being a reliable source for food information. Well, as you can imagine, that got my goat. I immediately pulled up menupages on my iPhone and showed in big bold letters under the Brunch Menu "Pete's Cobb Salad". Pete's is unassuming. They serve consistent good food made by methods I can only imagine have been used since the place opened in 1864.
WHAT TO BITE? Pete's Cobb Salad (brunch only!), $7.95 or a charcoal grilled burger, $9.95.
I know there are a few (crazy) people out there that have a huge disdain for brunch. I am not one of them. Growing up, and still to this day, Christmas is centered around brunch. You got to have the sugary cereal, cinnamon buns and my favorite, bacon. I'm an eggs kind of girl, so a cobb salad marries those breakfast flavors and beefs it up a little bit. There is the bacon, egg and cheese, all on my plate, in a slightly different medium, but delicious all the same.
I was challenged once that Pete's Tavern didn't have a Cobb Salad. I was told I was crazy, that I was mixing up my restaurant and dismissed as not being a reliable source for food information. Well, as you can imagine, that got my goat. I immediately pulled up menupages on my iPhone and showed in big bold letters under the Brunch Menu "Pete's Cobb Salad". Pete's is unassuming. They serve consistent good food made by methods I can only imagine have been used since the place opened in 1864.
WHAT TO BITE? Pete's Cobb Salad (brunch only!), $7.95 or a charcoal grilled burger, $9.95.
Paprika, 110 St. Marks Place (btwn 1st and A)
Gnocchi might be one of my favorite dishes in the world, but hardly one of my favorites in this country. So often they are too dense, too starchy or flavorless. Paprika surprised me. A Northern-Italian inspired menu that brought simple mountain food to the East Village. Typically I eat Southern-Italian food because those flavors are more recognizable and thus more prevalent in American cooking, but up North, they know what they are doing. Especially when it comes to the gnocchi.
Paprika is a small restaurant, so I wouldn't bring the whole office here, but it is on a quiet tree lined street away from the annoying NYU kids getting piercings in god knows what places. The restaurant has an Italian charm to it, like you just came in from hiking in cinque terre and you're starving for dinner. What Paprika serves you is a dish that has layer upon layer of flavor. It's simplistic and complex at the same time, comforting and inviting. If a bowl of pasta could wrap itself around you instead of vice versa, this is the place I'd come.
WHAT TO BITE? Homemade Gnocchi with Prosciutto, Sage and Tomato Sauce, $12.50.
Paprika is a small restaurant, so I wouldn't bring the whole office here, but it is on a quiet tree lined street away from the annoying NYU kids getting piercings in god knows what places. The restaurant has an Italian charm to it, like you just came in from hiking in cinque terre and you're starving for dinner. What Paprika serves you is a dish that has layer upon layer of flavor. It's simplistic and complex at the same time, comforting and inviting. If a bowl of pasta could wrap itself around you instead of vice versa, this is the place I'd come.
WHAT TO BITE? Homemade Gnocchi with Prosciutto, Sage and Tomato Sauce, $12.50.
Convivio, 45 Tudor City Place
I can't even imagine eating an eleven course tasting menu. How do diners not run out of room at Eleven Madison? After trying Convivio's four-course prex fixe, I was definitely down for the count. Roll me home (fortunately you can because Tudor City is on a hill!)
When you first walk into Convivio, the bar and lounge area is replete with deep colors and draped in velvet. You expect Dracula himself to be dining there. But then you turn right to the hostess stand into a bright room, crisp linens, silver chargers and bucket seats. The waitstaff is dressed in white and accented with orange cuff links and ties. Why do I recall what my waiter was wearing? Because he was the most intriguing waiter I've ever had. He was knowledgeable (not annoying), attentive (but not hovering) and most of all he was patient with our questions.
I'd recommend what to eat at Convivio, but when I went to do just that for my parents, I realized the items on the menu were seasonal, and had already shifted to the next palate. Everything was well prepared, perfect portions and delightfully seasoned.
WHAT TO BITE? The prex fixe, $62. Be adventurous.
When you first walk into Convivio, the bar and lounge area is replete with deep colors and draped in velvet. You expect Dracula himself to be dining there. But then you turn right to the hostess stand into a bright room, crisp linens, silver chargers and bucket seats. The waitstaff is dressed in white and accented with orange cuff links and ties. Why do I recall what my waiter was wearing? Because he was the most intriguing waiter I've ever had. He was knowledgeable (not annoying), attentive (but not hovering) and most of all he was patient with our questions.
I'd recommend what to eat at Convivio, but when I went to do just that for my parents, I realized the items on the menu were seasonal, and had already shifted to the next palate. Everything was well prepared, perfect portions and delightfully seasoned.
WHAT TO BITE? The prex fixe, $62. Be adventurous.
Jane, 100 W. Houston St. (btwn Thompson & La Guardia Pl.)
How could I have any trepidation about visiting the Smith's sister restaurant, Jane? I didn't, and I was well rewarded with a delicious meal. My dad has called me on more than one occasion to meet him at Arturo's next door for pizza, but this chilly fall evening, I was all about Jane.
Slightly smaller than it's East Village twin, the Smith has a warm and inviting atmosphere with small tables that allow for privacy and quiet conversation. Whoever does the lighting at these two restaurants is a genius, because everyone looks wonderful. The bar/waiting area is on the smaller side, but unlike some restaurants, who will for now remain nameless, there is somewhere to sit or stand while waiting for the remainder of your dinner party.
The stairs leading to the bathroom slightly terrify me. Maybe it was because of the 4" heels and lack of a banister, but I managed to get up and down without wiping out. The service was fantastic and when the check came there wasn't a single gasp in awe of the bottom line.
I would recommend Jane for a date or dinner with friends, especially those picky eaters who don't want their food covered with sauces made of words they cannot pronounce. I wouldn't necessarily come here with a large group though, while the high ceilings give the allure of more room, it is designed more for intimate dining.
WHAT TO BITE? Grilled pork chop, with mac n' cheese, $20.
Slightly smaller than it's East Village twin, the Smith has a warm and inviting atmosphere with small tables that allow for privacy and quiet conversation. Whoever does the lighting at these two restaurants is a genius, because everyone looks wonderful. The bar/waiting area is on the smaller side, but unlike some restaurants, who will for now remain nameless, there is somewhere to sit or stand while waiting for the remainder of your dinner party.
The stairs leading to the bathroom slightly terrify me. Maybe it was because of the 4" heels and lack of a banister, but I managed to get up and down without wiping out. The service was fantastic and when the check came there wasn't a single gasp in awe of the bottom line.
I would recommend Jane for a date or dinner with friends, especially those picky eaters who don't want their food covered with sauces made of words they cannot pronounce. I wouldn't necessarily come here with a large group though, while the high ceilings give the allure of more room, it is designed more for intimate dining.
WHAT TO BITE? Grilled pork chop, with mac n' cheese, $20.
Cafetasia, 85 Avenue A (btwn 6th & 7th)
After checking out the Hester Street Fair one Sunday afternoon, a friend and I were walking back to my apartment when it looked like the skies were about to open Noah's Ark style. We ducked into a cute looking Asian restaurant with some of the lowest prices I've seen outside of Chinatown and decided to have lunch. As the rain beat down for the next hour, we dined on a delicious meal of flavorful meats and noodles, and have both been back numerous times since.
Cafetasia has two locations in Manhattan. I've been to both (the other near Washington Square Park) but this review is going to be for a birthday dinner I had at the East Village location recently.
I hate birthday dinners for to most part because there are too many people (and often time too many 'new' friends) to object to splitting the bill evenly. It's not that I'm a cheap person when it comes to my food. I think I've made it abundantly clear that I like going out to dinner, but I don't think it's appropriate for the person who ordered the dancing shrimp appetizer, the prime rib and downed an entire bottle of wine to pay the same as me with my mesclun salad with toasted walnuts and goat cheese. I didn't order the salad because I'm senor cheapo, I wasn't terribly hungry. I didn't refrain from drinking because I'm a penny pincher, I just need to go home and function after this dinner. And then comes paying for the birthday girl. This isn't Applebees and we're not in high school anymore. Though I understand it's easier to divide by 15, it's just as easy to pass the check around, split the alcohol bill by the number of people who actually drank and divide tax and tip evenly. We're adults. Math isn't that hard.
Moving on to Cafetasia. As usual, some members of the group arrived upwards of 45 minutes late, but they were very accommodating and let us sit at the table, filling our water glasses and waiting patiently until the banquet sized table was ready to order. For the most part, they did a great job with getting out this massive order (one appetizer was served late with the rest of our meal) and the prex fixe $13 dinner included: soup, salad, two fried spring rolls, three dumplings and dipping sauces, an entree, and a dessert. I also brought cupcakes, which they were nice enough to keep in the fridge and serve at the end of the meal, complete with dimmed lights, a candle, and accompanied by a disco/techno blend of "Happy Birthday". No, we did not have a private room for this, but I'm pretty sure the rest of the diners enjoyed the show.
The restaurant itself is in an industrial space with mirrors on one side, and a large metal bar on the other and the tables can be pushed together to fit anywhere from 2-50 people. All in all, it's a great place to have a birthday dinner where your diners won't walk away $90 poorer and resenting the day your mother brought you to this earth.
WHAT TO BITE? Chicken Basil Udon, $9.
SIDENOTE: The other Cafetasia is on 8th Street (btwn University Pl. and Greene St.) and has a different vibe (and a shorter happy hour). The tables are more communal, a little difficult to get into if you're wearing a dress, and there are gothic candelabras around the room. It's darker, more romantic and less industrial (although the bathrooms are unisex and strange) but still has the same great value and attentive service.
Cafetasia has two locations in Manhattan. I've been to both (the other near Washington Square Park) but this review is going to be for a birthday dinner I had at the East Village location recently.
I hate birthday dinners for to most part because there are too many people (and often time too many 'new' friends) to object to splitting the bill evenly. It's not that I'm a cheap person when it comes to my food. I think I've made it abundantly clear that I like going out to dinner, but I don't think it's appropriate for the person who ordered the dancing shrimp appetizer, the prime rib and downed an entire bottle of wine to pay the same as me with my mesclun salad with toasted walnuts and goat cheese. I didn't order the salad because I'm senor cheapo, I wasn't terribly hungry. I didn't refrain from drinking because I'm a penny pincher, I just need to go home and function after this dinner. And then comes paying for the birthday girl. This isn't Applebees and we're not in high school anymore. Though I understand it's easier to divide by 15, it's just as easy to pass the check around, split the alcohol bill by the number of people who actually drank and divide tax and tip evenly. We're adults. Math isn't that hard.
Moving on to Cafetasia. As usual, some members of the group arrived upwards of 45 minutes late, but they were very accommodating and let us sit at the table, filling our water glasses and waiting patiently until the banquet sized table was ready to order. For the most part, they did a great job with getting out this massive order (one appetizer was served late with the rest of our meal) and the prex fixe $13 dinner included: soup, salad, two fried spring rolls, three dumplings and dipping sauces, an entree, and a dessert. I also brought cupcakes, which they were nice enough to keep in the fridge and serve at the end of the meal, complete with dimmed lights, a candle, and accompanied by a disco/techno blend of "Happy Birthday". No, we did not have a private room for this, but I'm pretty sure the rest of the diners enjoyed the show.
The restaurant itself is in an industrial space with mirrors on one side, and a large metal bar on the other and the tables can be pushed together to fit anywhere from 2-50 people. All in all, it's a great place to have a birthday dinner where your diners won't walk away $90 poorer and resenting the day your mother brought you to this earth.
WHAT TO BITE? Chicken Basil Udon, $9.
SIDENOTE: The other Cafetasia is on 8th Street (btwn University Pl. and Greene St.) and has a different vibe (and a shorter happy hour). The tables are more communal, a little difficult to get into if you're wearing a dress, and there are gothic candelabras around the room. It's darker, more romantic and less industrial (although the bathrooms are unisex and strange) but still has the same great value and attentive service.
Peasant, 194 Elizabeth Street (btwn Prince St. & Spring St.)
I went to Peasant Friday night for dinner, a nice little Italian place down the block from Public in Nolita. It's Christmas, and as soon as you walked in, the place reminded you of the holidays. They have two large brick ovens in the back, open kitchen, and a tasteful Christmas tree in the corner.
Reviewed as having bad service, I want to amend that by saying the service isn't bad, but the front of the house was. While I understand a reservation doesn't guarantee you that you will be seated immediately, it does give way to a little common courtesy when the diners have been waiting for 20 minutes. The front of the house didn't acknowledge us standing near the bar, nor did they come over to say "oh I'm terribly sorry, you're table will be ready in a just a few minutes". This left a bad taste in my mouth, because as most of my friends know, I don't like waiting. I can't get terribly mad at the restaurant, in part it is not their fault. I unfortunately have many friends who are consistently late to dinner, causing our reservation to have upwards of 30 minutes added to the table's allotted time, resulting in the next seating being late. So I understand, but that doesn't absolve you from some pleasantries in the meantime. As for the actual dining service, it was impeccable. Our food came out quickly, our waiter and busboy was attentive in filling our glasses with water and keeping our table neat.
Now onto the food. I have to say the aroma of freshly cooked bread and slight smokiness of the restaurant made me salivate as soon as the bread and fresh ricotta cheese was placed in front of me. Not to dive on one's food but, that's pretty much what we did. The rest of the meal with a nice mix of Northern Italian classics done simply, and the fire hearth certainly added a flavor to the food you can't get with a gas range. I was thrilled to see a white pizza (it bothers me that they call it Pizza Bianca, because that's just bread with olive oil and seasoning on it, despite the literal translation in English) with mortadella on it. Who doesn't love a fatty piece of meal with pine nuts? I was so stuffed with bread and cheese and crackling pig skin that we didn't even try dessert, but I did see more bread puddings shot out of the kitchen than appetizers so, they must be doing something right.
The restaurant itself is dimly lit and the space is rather large so it's nice for a date because you can actually hear the person across from the table. Also, I must say, that the size of the table itself was fantastic. So many times I find myself crammed onto a tiny table that barely fits a dinner plate and a water glass. When I first sat down I though "wow, I'm really far away from my dining companion" but, shortly thereafter I realized how fantastic it would be to have a bread plate, water glass and my entree on the table at the same time. Kudos to you, Peasant.
WHAT TO BITE? Cotechino (fresh pork sausage and warm lentils), $16
Reviewed as having bad service, I want to amend that by saying the service isn't bad, but the front of the house was. While I understand a reservation doesn't guarantee you that you will be seated immediately, it does give way to a little common courtesy when the diners have been waiting for 20 minutes. The front of the house didn't acknowledge us standing near the bar, nor did they come over to say "oh I'm terribly sorry, you're table will be ready in a just a few minutes". This left a bad taste in my mouth, because as most of my friends know, I don't like waiting. I can't get terribly mad at the restaurant, in part it is not their fault. I unfortunately have many friends who are consistently late to dinner, causing our reservation to have upwards of 30 minutes added to the table's allotted time, resulting in the next seating being late. So I understand, but that doesn't absolve you from some pleasantries in the meantime. As for the actual dining service, it was impeccable. Our food came out quickly, our waiter and busboy was attentive in filling our glasses with water and keeping our table neat.
Now onto the food. I have to say the aroma of freshly cooked bread and slight smokiness of the restaurant made me salivate as soon as the bread and fresh ricotta cheese was placed in front of me. Not to dive on one's food but, that's pretty much what we did. The rest of the meal with a nice mix of Northern Italian classics done simply, and the fire hearth certainly added a flavor to the food you can't get with a gas range. I was thrilled to see a white pizza (it bothers me that they call it Pizza Bianca, because that's just bread with olive oil and seasoning on it, despite the literal translation in English) with mortadella on it. Who doesn't love a fatty piece of meal with pine nuts? I was so stuffed with bread and cheese and crackling pig skin that we didn't even try dessert, but I did see more bread puddings shot out of the kitchen than appetizers so, they must be doing something right.
The restaurant itself is dimly lit and the space is rather large so it's nice for a date because you can actually hear the person across from the table. Also, I must say, that the size of the table itself was fantastic. So many times I find myself crammed onto a tiny table that barely fits a dinner plate and a water glass. When I first sat down I though "wow, I'm really far away from my dining companion" but, shortly thereafter I realized how fantastic it would be to have a bread plate, water glass and my entree on the table at the same time. Kudos to you, Peasant.
WHAT TO BITE? Cotechino (fresh pork sausage and warm lentils), $16
Friday, December 17, 2010
The Smith, 53 3rd Ave (btwn 10th & 11th)
Some friends of mine celebrated NYE here last year, and since their meal I had been wanting to try it. Numerous times I walked bye, the table wait pouring out into the street. What was so great about this place? And where were they proposing to fit all these people? Once I had my first meal here, I finally could answer those perplexing questions. Not only is the bar menu fantastic in complementing their food, but you have a generous portion for the right price. And there are two floors.
To me, The Smith is comfort food. I went here the night after I passed the New York bar exam for a burger and fries (and a few too many passion fruit mojitos). I've dined here with a large group of friends and devoured the skate and a side of brussel sprouts. I've even sat at the bar with a friend and indulged in mac and cheese a few too many times.
I would recommend this place for anything from a large group (who wants to fork over $90 on a birthday dinner?) to a date, to a picky eater, to a food snob. There is likely something on the menu to fit any appetite... or budget.
WHAT TO BITE? Skate a la plancha, $21 with a side of brussels sprouts, $5.
To me, The Smith is comfort food. I went here the night after I passed the New York bar exam for a burger and fries (and a few too many passion fruit mojitos). I've dined here with a large group of friends and devoured the skate and a side of brussel sprouts. I've even sat at the bar with a friend and indulged in mac and cheese a few too many times.
I would recommend this place for anything from a large group (who wants to fork over $90 on a birthday dinner?) to a date, to a picky eater, to a food snob. There is likely something on the menu to fit any appetite... or budget.
WHAT TO BITE? Skate a la plancha, $21 with a side of brussels sprouts, $5.
Introduction
E-mail from Dad, 10:57 p.m.: What was name of restaurant we went to with Aunt Susan for Brunch in SOHO. Turkish? Just south of Spring?
E-mail from Me, 10:58 p.m.: Antique Garage
E-mail from Dad, 11:05 p.m.: You never cease to amaze me
That brunch Dad was referring to was over 5 years ago, and I can still recite to you every one's order. Not because it was a special meal (great food, wonderful jazz), but because it's what I do. There are few things I compulsively spend money on. I don't wear designer jeans and my iTunes account hasn't been used since I bought my first laptop. But there is one thing I will gladly fork over my entire piggy bank for, and that's a great bite of food.
As New York City inhabitants, we certainly dine out much more than the rest of the population. Maybe it's because our grocery stores are scant larger than an East Village loft, or the Fresh Direct delivery window is 50-times longer than that of the local Chinese take-out. I love to cook, don't get me wrong, but my kitchen is small, and when you get home from the gym at 9 p.m., the last thing you want to do is wait for you hot plate (a.k.a. stove), to try and boil water. Instead, we make like "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," and phone a friend for dinner, and if it's a weeknight, we suggest a place on our subway line.
Which is where this blog comes in. I keep a draft in my e-mail of restaurants I want to try (thank you Grubstreet, NY Mag, NY Times and Time Out New York), and slowly but surely, make through the list. At this point I would also like to thank all of my wonderful friends, and for the more pricey places, my parents, for indulging in my culinary obsession. I'm constantly asked what my favorite Italian restaurant is, or where a good date spot is in midtown, or if there are any non-asian BYOB places in NYC (there are!), and I'm starting to draw blanks. Not because I don't have an answer, but my mental rolodex of restaurants is starting to get the best of me.
So, my Mom said I should start a blog, in hopes it would one day spiral into a movie headlining Stanley Tucci (jk), where I could share my thoughts with more than my friends and family. Since you should always listen to your mother, here it is. It is my hope to forever keep a digital record of these wonderful meals, share some experiences, and hopefully through the help of readers out there, find new ways to satiate my appetite.
E-mail from Me, 10:58 p.m.: Antique Garage
E-mail from Dad, 11:05 p.m.: You never cease to amaze me
That brunch Dad was referring to was over 5 years ago, and I can still recite to you every one's order. Not because it was a special meal (great food, wonderful jazz), but because it's what I do. There are few things I compulsively spend money on. I don't wear designer jeans and my iTunes account hasn't been used since I bought my first laptop. But there is one thing I will gladly fork over my entire piggy bank for, and that's a great bite of food.
As New York City inhabitants, we certainly dine out much more than the rest of the population. Maybe it's because our grocery stores are scant larger than an East Village loft, or the Fresh Direct delivery window is 50-times longer than that of the local Chinese take-out. I love to cook, don't get me wrong, but my kitchen is small, and when you get home from the gym at 9 p.m., the last thing you want to do is wait for you hot plate (a.k.a. stove), to try and boil water. Instead, we make like "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," and phone a friend for dinner, and if it's a weeknight, we suggest a place on our subway line.
Which is where this blog comes in. I keep a draft in my e-mail of restaurants I want to try (thank you Grubstreet, NY Mag, NY Times and Time Out New York), and slowly but surely, make through the list. At this point I would also like to thank all of my wonderful friends, and for the more pricey places, my parents, for indulging in my culinary obsession. I'm constantly asked what my favorite Italian restaurant is, or where a good date spot is in midtown, or if there are any non-asian BYOB places in NYC (there are!), and I'm starting to draw blanks. Not because I don't have an answer, but my mental rolodex of restaurants is starting to get the best of me.
So, my Mom said I should start a blog, in hopes it would one day spiral into a movie headlining Stanley Tucci (jk), where I could share my thoughts with more than my friends and family. Since you should always listen to your mother, here it is. It is my hope to forever keep a digital record of these wonderful meals, share some experiences, and hopefully through the help of readers out there, find new ways to satiate my appetite.
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