Category Archives: New York

NYC – 2/27/16 – Momofuku Nishi

Posted in New York by

While I agree with many points in the recent Nishi reviews, despite the flaws I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner there and will be back as soon as I land another reservation (although in spring having to wait is much more tolerable).  I am still thinking about the Chitarra pasta and that rarely happens to me.  I’m looking forward to seeing how this place grows in the next six months as already off to a very good start.

Alsatian – amer, vermouth, cider
Beef Crudo – watermelon radish, dashi ponzu
Romaine & Walnut Bagna Cauda
 Chitarra – squid, xo, fresh & fermented chili
 pistachio bunt cake

NYC – 2/26/16 – Mission Cantina

Posted in New York by

It has been quite a while since I’ve been to Mission Cantina and I must admit it will probably be a while until I return again. First our server completely disappeared after taking our drink order and was finally replaced by someone else. And then we were basically pushed out the door the second we finished eating. I can’t help but feel that they are trying a bit too hard to fulfill a LES dive aesthetic. I have no issues with the concept of that but at some point certain dishes, such as the guacamole, did not even look appetizing.

I must admit I love the chandelier and the juxtaposition with the neon menu.
 Guacamole
 Special of the day and it was fantastic
 Crab rangoons
Broccoli oyster sauce
 General Tso’s chicken

NYC – 2/23/16 – Brushstroke

Posted in New York by

It doesn’t matter how long I am in NYC, there will always be an endless list of restaurants that I somehow haven’t been to.  I’m not sure how Brushstroke eluded me for so long but glad I finally got here.  Definitely a bit of a hidden gem in Tribeca.

Sakizuke – Pacific oyster and uni, fresh green seaweed Nagoriyuki lemon foam
 Nimonowan – rabbit pate sakura-mochi in rabbit dashi broth, hearts of palm
 ​Today’s sashimi six kinds
 Hashiyasume – hedgehog mushroom chawanmushi, truffle-ankake
 Hassun – Japanese red snapper, sakura sushi, scottish salmon lemon yuan-yaki, Portugal octopus dill mustard vinegar miso
 Shiizakana – Colorado lamb sakura-yaki, satoimo puree, red wine reduction sauce
 Stewed Oregon washu-beef, yuba-ankake

NYC – 2/15/16 – Luskus (w/ Kitchen Table)

Posted in London, New York by

A terrible snowy night to trek to Brooklyn and on the walk from the subway I was wondering what the heck I was thinking.  But I absolutely loved my visit to the Kitchen Table at Bubbledogs last year and was quite excited for this collaboration dinner.  Plus it has been far too long since I have been to Luskus.  I could have eaten a complete meal of the chicken skin and was thrilled to have it again.  It was an utter surprise that my favorite dish of the night was the one I thought I would hate – balsamic, truffle, artichoke.  All individual components that I love, but cold the thought was immediately terrible.  It somehow took me back many many years to when I first had the olive oil gelato at Otto.  I would love to do this entire dinner over again.
 beetroot, salsify, dulse
 razor clam, blood orange, fennel

beef tartare, purple daikon, laver
 chicken skin, rosemary mascarpone, bacon

sea scallop, ginger

Ryan and the Gosling – Evid Twin/Crooked Stave

shrimp, walnut, tarragon
 Sasuga – Oxbow

roasted sunchoke, rye, dulse
 sea bass, onion, nettle
 squab, damson, hay, rye
 lamb breast, salted plum, rutabaga
 balsamic, truffle, artichoke

 carrot, bay leaf, licorice

NYC – 2/10/16 – Mission Chinese Food

Posted in New York by

I had been putting off a visit to the new Mission Chinese probably because its seems such a trek to the outer edge of the LES.  While the design is certainly exceedingly better than version 1.0, it is sad as Rosette, the previous restaurant in this space, was beautiful.  It took me a bit to get past it, but when I finally did I realized how much I missed the food. I order a green papaya salad everywhere that has one and this one of the best.  I have though had enough of the trend of a restaurant bringing out more dishes at once than will fit on the table.  I realize this is easier for the kitchen than having to actually course out and appropriately time the meal and I conceptually don’t mind.  But I don’t want to speed eat so that a plate can be removed to make room for my water glass.  Nor do I appreciate a server looking at me as if I am supposed to somehow magically make the table twice as big and rearrange all of the plates for them.  I don’t know what the solution is but its getting to be intolerable.

Tingling negroni – gin, pinecone liqueur, tingling oil, aperol, cynar
 Green papaya salad – smoked chicken, green tomatoes, pickled tea leaves, peanuts

Green tea noodles – ginger, scallion, hoisin, matcha

Broccoli beef brisket – baby chinese broccoli, house made oyster sauce, seeds
 Hokkaido scallop sashimi – kombu bured, grapefruit, nori

NYC – 2/6/16 – Lucky Bee

Posted in New York by

Lucky Bee has to be one of the most cramped restaurants in NYC and after trying to navigate to the bathroom I gained an entirely new appreciation for the servers.  Another fun option on the LES but after using Reserve to book and making my friends sign up so that we could split the bill through the app, it was disappointing that we couldn’t pay this way.

 Steamed pork and sesame dumplings, chinese black vinegar, black bean, fried garlic
 Tuna tartare, roast chili & shallot, lime, popped wild rice
 Green papaya salad, tamarind & lime, toasted peanuts, snake beans
 Smashed cucumbers, dill pickle, fried peanuts, sweet rice vinegar, coconut milk
 Spiced massaman curry of lamb shoulder, kipfler potato, pineapple vinegar

NYC – 2/2/16 – Oiji

Posted in New York by

This may be the year of beef tartare in NYC.  Oiji’s version definitely gives Wildair’s a run for its money.  Perhaps the most beautiful beef tartare I’ve had and I could have eaten two easily.  But as completely different I will refrain from picking a favorite.  While a heavily instagramed dish this year (and how I don’t know as the it was so dark), the “Chil-jeol-pan” unfortunately seemed a bit flavorless.  Perhaps a victim of the success of the tartare and extremely flavorful kimchi and mackerel.

Mother Flower – Hibiscus Hwayo 41, Cocchi Americano, Genepy, Chartreuse  Kimchi
 Beef Tartare with Ramp Aioli
 “Chil-jeol-pan” Seven Flavors
 Pine Leaves Smoked Mackerel with Citrus Soy

NYC -1/21/16 – Vaucluse

Posted in New York by

If only I did not have to work I could easily slip into a ladies who lunch upper east side lifestyle and Vaucluse is a perfect spot.  The poireaux vinaigrette completely lived up to my very high expectations after reading several rave reviews of this dish.  I’m not sure that I could order anything else from the hors d’oeuvres section of the menu when I return.  The Vaucluse version of the white label burger is actually a perfect French take on the original white label burger.  But I must admit that I love the original white label burger much more so it looks like a lunch visit to Ai Fiori is in the cards very soon.  Apologies but bacon marmalade beats tomato jam every time. 🙂

 Poireaux Vinaigrette – grilled leeks, toasted almonds, mustard seed vinaigrette
 White Label Burger – aged beef blend, fontine cheese, tomato jam, dijonnaise, frites

NYC – 1/13/16 – Momofuku Ko

Posted in New York by

In the past few months Ko has quickly become on of my absolute favorites in NYC.  Often I stop by just for a drink as I feel a bit guilty indulging in tasting menus too often when I’m not traveling.  I love when any restaurant can take a food that I typically am not crazy about and make me love it.  On this menu for instance, I generally dislike razor clams, uni and monkfish.  But these particular preparations are outstanding.  As I’m writing this post 6 weeks later the menu has already undergone several changes which means that its fortunately time for another visit.  #firstworldproblems

potato waffle. pommes soufflees. lobster paloise. millefeuille.

madai – consomme, shiso, fingerlime

scallop – tonburi, citron
 uni – chickpea, hozon
 razor clam – apple, basil
 ​
beef – rutabaga, green peppercorn
 ​
caviar – potato, fermented radish
 monkfish – liver, poblano
 pyramidi – broccoli, aged cheddar

venison – kale, olive berry
 foie gras – lychee, pine nut, riesling jelly
 ​
carrot cardamom – meringue  chocolate – mint, fernet branca
 ​
Macaroon

NYC – 1/9/16 – Babu Ji and Mace

Posted in New York by

Babu Ji
Its rare that I will arrive at a restaurant prior to opening and wait in line to get in. Far too often its not worth it.  Luckily in this case it absolutely was.  We opted for the Chef’s table menu which was a great way to try a multitude of dishes, especially the entrees.  The only problem is that I don’t know what many of these dishes were over a month later.  The only thing I do know is that I may order double of the Butter Chicken on my next visit.







 ​

Mace
I’ve been meaning to get here for a while.  Fantastic cocktails and a lovely atmosphere earlier in the evening.  Looking at my pictures, perhaps it was just by chance, but is everything in a coupe?


NYC – 12/17/15 – Benoit

Posted in New York by

My first trip to Benoit for lunch was a success so I decided to give it a try for dinner as it was in the necessary location for this particular evening.  A lovely pate en croute and I haven’t had escargots since the Next Bistro menu in early 2015.  Its always great to have solid midtown options as I am often too ‘down’ on the neighborhood.

Pate en croute 
Escargots, garlic & parsley butter
 Hanger steak, frites & bordelaise sauce

NYC – 12/12/15 – Push Project – Empellon Cocina & Hoja Santa

Posted in New York by

I absolutely love the Push Project dinners and am lucky enough to have attended almost all of them. I knew this combination of Albert Adria, Paco Mendez and Alex Stupak would be fantastic and it certainly was.  Not to take anything away from the savory courses as it is impossible to even pick a favorite, but the desserts completely blew me away.  This was a fairly long menu but I would have gladly had seconds of each one.  I don’t even like tres leeches, but like so many things you just need to have an outstanding version to change your mind about a dish.  And the frozen corn….outstanding.

As with most Push Projects timing was all over the place with some courses coming out on top of each other and then long pauses.  But it is to be expected with this type of experience.  In a first for NYC dining in small spaces, one member of our group had an entire beer poured down her back but our server couldn’t have been more apologetic and even went out and bought her a rose at the end of our meal.  That is certainly hospitality.  I can’t wait to see what the next Push Project brings as this one will be difficult to top. And thank you for now using Tock for booking. Much appreciated as the system is amazing and past reservation experiences were very unpleasant.

 ALMEJAS DE SANGRE CON SANGRITA HIELO – Wellfleet Blood Clams with Frozen Sangria (HS)

ENCURTIDOS DE VERDURAS – Pickled Vegetables (HS)
 ACEITUNAS DE CANTINA – Cantina Olives (HS)
 JICARA DE ELOTE CON ACEITE DE QUELITES Y CHIPOTLE – Corn Jicara with Pipicha Oil and Chipotle (HS)
 HOJA SANTA CRUJIENTE – Crunchy Hoja Santa (HS)
 GAZPACHO DE AGUACATE – Avocado Gazpacho (HS)
 QUESADILLA DE TRUFA NEGRA – Black Truffle Quesadilla (HS)
 CEMITA DE MILANESA DE ABALONE – Mini Pueblan Style Sandwich with Fried Abalone (E)
 CEVICHE DE RECADO NEGRO – Ceviche Recado Negro Under a Frozen Pond (HS)

 CAMPECHANA – Mixed Seafood Cocktail with Spicy Ketchup (E)
 CEBOLLA X-NI-PEK – Red Onion X-Ni-Pek (HS)
 PIPIAN PAPANTECO CON LANGOSTA DE MAINE – Papantla Style Pipian with Maine Lobster (HS)
 COSTILLA DE CERDO CON ADOBO DE LA ABUELA FLOR – Pork Ribs in Grandma Flor’s Adobo (HS)
 MANCHAMANTELES – Mole with Sweet Potato and Fruit (E)
 TRES LECHES – Milk Soaked Sponge Cake with Kabocha Squash and Pecan Ice (E)
 MAIZ, CHOCOLATE, Y CAJETA – Corn, Chocolate, and Cajeta (HS)
 FLAN DE CHICORIA CON YEMA DE PATO – Chicory Flan with Duck Egg Yolk (E)
 SORBETE DE NARANJA CON SAL DE GUSANOS – Orange sorbet with Sal de Gusanos (E)


 

NYC – 12/11/15 – DBGB & Wildair

Posted in New York by

DBGB
I don’t always post about places where I stop for a pre or post dinner drink.  But DBGB is one of my favorites whenever heading anywhere on the Lower East Side.  While there are always interesting beers on draft we of course had to go for the ode to the boilermaker.

Wheat beer and grand mariner with tequila

Wildair
I have said it before, but I love Wildair.  I only wish that so many others did not as well (ok not really I suppose from a financial point of view).  It is not always possible to get there at opening and unfortunately I just don’t have the patience for the ridiculously long waits later in the evening.  But I will still try my best to get here as frequently as possible.


Bread and olive oil

Sweet potato, ricotta, tahini, herbs

Beef tartare, smoked cheddar, chestnut

Black bass, pineapple, nduja
 Persimmon, butternut, burrata, jalapeño
 Pork milanese, gribiche, mustard greens

NYC – 12/10/15 – Bar Room @ the Modern

Posted in New York by

My first trip to the Modern after the changeover to service included and honestly I did not notice at all.  I sometimes tend to forget to come here but am always pleasantly surprised when I do.  For as much as I diss midtown in general there is no disputing that there are a number of fantastic lunch options.

Marinated Hamachi, pumpkin-yuzu vinaigrette

Seared Scallops, smoked shellfish, fennel and potatoes

NYC – 12/7/15 – Le Bernardin & O Ya

Posted in New York by

Le Bernardin
The City Harvest lunch menu at Le Bernardin is the best kept secret in NYC.  I should probably even stop writing about it!  When I’ve found myself able to have lunch in midtown in the last few months I have tried to check out some other places.  And while I’ve had very good meals elsewhere I will keep returning to Le Bernardin as my absolute favorite.
 

Hamachi – Hamachi Tartare, Cucumber, Lemon-Citrus Emulsion

Skate – Poached Skate, Pickled Shallots, Sea Beans, Cucumber, Verjus Sauce

Pear – Slow-Roasted Pear, “Beurre Noisette” Tuile, Pear William Frozen Parfait

O Ya
I had hesitated in visiting O Ya when it first opened as the price when compared to some other similar options seemed pretty high.  We opted for the shorter 18 course omakase menu which my dining companion had a few times previously and which seemed to go quite quickly for so many bites.  I couldn’t take notes quickly enough as the dishes came out and unfortunately there as no menu at the end.  There were some totally fantastic things and perhaps some I didn’t enjoy as much just due to personal preference and not that they were not well executed.   I probably would have enjoyed this meal a bit more if sitting at the counter instead of a booth (our fault not theirs).  I’m not convinced that O Ya is good enough to warrant the price hike over Shuko but I’d gladly go back (if someone else is paying)!


  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Not pictured, but after all of this fish, I ended the night with a stop at Nomad Bar for a hot dog.

NYC – 12/5/15 – Gramercy Tavern & Porchlight

Posted in New York by

Gramercy Tavern
Gramercy Tavern somehow is always excellent and never disappoints.  An added bonus that December is one of my favorite times to visit as their holiday decorations are absolutely gorgeous.

Arctic Char Tartare, Apple, Peanuts and Crispy Shallots
Ricotta Cavatelli, Braised Lamb, Kabocha Squash and Almonds

Porchlight
I wasn’t planning for this to be a USHG kind of day but there are only so many pre-show options when heading to Sleep No More.  After having my first amaretto sour in 20 years last spring, I’m glad that the resurgence is continuing.  The same could be said of the fantastic tater tots.

Amaretto sour

Boiled Peanut Hummus and Vegetables

Tater Tots

Avocado @ Crab Toast

NYC – 12/4/15 – Contra w/ in de wulf

Posted in New York by

I’m not sure if I will make it to in de wulf before they shutter at the end of the year so what a fantastic opportunity to have Kobe Desramualts’ food at this collaboration dinner with Contra.  Definitely a longer menu than I was expecting and while the pacing wasn’t the best, it was actually better than I expect at any event where there rhythm of the kitchen is vastly disrupted.  It seems so predictable to be my favorite course, but I could have eaten 4 more of the kerremelkstampers.  I hope that Contra keeps doing these!

snails
beetroot, sloeberry yogurt

sea urchin, carrot, husk cherry
 kohlrabi, scallop, green strawberry

mussel broth, charcoal roasted vegetables
 kerremelkstampers, caviar

monkfish, celeriac, liver

red kuri squash, crab, egg yolk

lobster and homemade butter

persimmon, tangerines, bourbon

chocolate, sunchoke, beer

NYC – 11/30/15 – Bouchon Bakery

Posted in New York by

When one isn’t dressed for lunch at the lounge at Per Se, Bouchon Bakery is still a perfectly fine substitute.  This may be one of the best pickle plates that I can remember having and overall a perfect lunch.

pickled vegetables
hearts of romaine, chicken breast, apples, bacon lardons, cider poached raisins, blue cheese, apple cider vinaigrette

NYC – 11/27/15 – Minetta Tavern

Posted in New York by

It may not photograph as well as some others, but the Black Label burger is still my favorite in the city.  And the bone marrow may be one of the best as well.  As I put together this entry I just realized that between the sidecar and the bone marrow my dad would have loved this meal/midnight snack.

sidecar
roasted bone marrow
 black label burger

NYC – 11/14/15 – Bruno

Posted in New York by

I went into Bruno frankly not expecting to like it very much.  I am very particular about pizza crust and from all accounts this wasn’t of the type that I favored.  Perhaps because I had such low expectations I actually did enjoy this pizza.  The toppings were delicious and while not my preference, the crust was a very good version of what it was aiming to be.  But reference to Bruno as a pizzeria is somewhat misleading in that it takes away from the rest of the menu.  And it was the other dishes that I was very impressed by.  On my next visit I will likely skip the pizza altogether as there are just too many other good dishes.  My only criticism is that the very bright lighting may be great for food photography but creates a very harsh ambience. And I must agree with Pete Wells that the seating is beyond uncomfortable.

Celery root – cured salmon, autumn olives, lovage, skyr, rye Duck liver mousse – quinoa, quince, kamut crackers

‘Nduja pizza – spicy pork, cauliflower, Dorset, tomato
 Local squid – hatch chile, charred onion, wild sumac

NYC – 11/12/15 – Momofuku Ko

Posted in New York by

While I probably will not make a list of my favorite dining experiences of 2015, if I were to do so this dinner would easily be in my top 5.  This was my first time sitting at one of the two tables instead of the counter and certainly some of the presentations are just far more impressive for a larger group.  There was not one course which I did not absolutely love which is consistent with previous visits.  Our essentially second course could have been a meal in itself and if it had ended at that point I would have gone home very happy.  If there were not any witnesses I probably would have eaten the guinea hen to the point of making myself sick.  Food aside I just love the entire environment of Ko 2.0.  I am often down on friendliness of service in New York restaurants but Ko embodies the concept of hospitality.  Now that I am somewhat thinking about my favorite experiences of this past year, the stand outs are the ones that not only have amazing food and impeccable service but also have figured out, for lack of a better description, the ‘it’ factor in hospitality.  I am definitely looking forward to many more visits in 2016.

a blank canvas
 vegetable roll.  pommel soufflés.  lobster paloise.  millefeuille.
  black bass, madai, uni, mackerel, chickpea, finger lime, bonji, shiso, sudachi
   razor clam – apple, basil
 siberian sturgeon caviar – radish, potato
 sourdough bread & radish butter
 halibut – cauliflower, hungarian pepper
guinea hen – matsutake, black vinegar
   celery root – white truffle, tandoori
 beef – daikon, scallion
 foie gras – lychee, pine nut, riesling jelly
 carrot cardamom – meringue
 pistachio – apricot
chocolate – fernet branca
  

NYC – 11/11/15 – Gabriel Kreuther

Posted in New York by

I had been meaning to get to Gabriel Kreuther since it opened but too often when I am in midtown and able to dine out for lunch I default to Le Bernardin.  But upon finding myself 2 blocks away with a lunch break it seemed like the perfect opportunity.  The autumn salad was beautiful and I’ve since tried to replicate the aesthetic at home.  As they always are, the tart flambeé was very tasty (although it admittedly did not sit very well in my stomach).  The space is more beautiful in person than it appeared in photos and its great to have another option in an area of the city that I find myself in often.

Autumn salad – sunflower seeds, pomegranate vinaigrette
 Tarte flambee – hen of the woods mushrooms, comte cheese, chive, nutmeg, onion

NYC – 11/9/15 – Gotham Bar and Grill

Posted in New York by

It has been an embarrassingly long time since I have been to Gotham Bar & Grill and I need to make much more of an effort to visit my old favorites and New York classics in 2016.  I went for the burger which was perfect and one of the few where I actually ate the entire bun and didn’t feel like it was too much.  But as good as the burger was, it may have been overshadowed by the seafood salad.  It is not even something I would typically order and I can’t recall why I did this particular day.  The seafood was cooked perfectly and the portion size was substantial.  The refreshing vinaigrette perhaps made it seem to be more of a ceviche than what I traditionally think of when I hear ‘seafood salad’ and was probably why I loved it so much.  Definitely a dish I will be returning for very soon.

Cider tree- mount gay black barrel rum, calvados, apple butter, allspice dram, cinnamon Seafood salad – scallops, squid, spanish octopus, lobster, sweet shrimp, avocado and lemon vinaigrette
 Gotham burger – plymouth tomme cheddar, vermont bacon-onion jam, lemon aioli, kennebec french fries

NYC – 11/6/15 – Lupulo

Posted in New York by

Lupulo has quickly become one of my favorite new places.  Proximity to where I often workout does not hurt as I am typically starving when I walk by.  But everything on the menu is fantastic and the red snapper I could easily eat everyday (and if it were less expensive I would double order).  My only criticism is that I don’t really love anything on the wine’s by the glass list and think the selections could be improved.  Nonetheless Lupulo will remain in heavy rotation!

Red snapper cru – red snapper, coconut milk, kaffir-lime broth, fermented serrano, benne seeds
 Pato coracoes – grilled duck hearts with pickled mango, shishito peppers, pimenton
 Beterrabas com hortela e coco – roasted and smoked beets with mint, coconut

NYC – 11/5/15 – Barbuto

Posted in New York by

What a completely amazing day to be dining outdoors in November in NYC.  Barbuto truly is a classic that never disappoints and still the chicken by which all others are still measured.

gin martini and negroni
 pollo al forno – jw chicken & salsa verde
 pizza stagionale – dates, speck, balsamic, trevisano & point reyes blue
 bucatini alla carbonara – pancetta, farm egg & black pepper
 manhattan

NYC – 11/2/15 – Le Bernardin

Posted in New York by

There is no better way to forget about an unpleasant morning doctor’s appointment than to stop at Le Bernardin for lunch. Consistently impeccable and always my favorite lunch in NYC. As an added bonus I made two new friends sitting at the bar, something that rarely ever happens in a city where everybody tends to keep their heads down.

Aristocrat – Ransom Old Tom Gin, La Quintinye Vermouth Royal, Le Bernardin Grapefruit Cordial, Ginger Basil Reduction   
 Yellowfin Tuna – ultra rare seared tuna, spiced herb salad, citrus-soy-ginger dressing 
 Striped Bass – black striped bass, fennel and leek compote, bouillabaisse broth 
 Sorbets 
 

NYC – 10/24/15 – Felidia

Posted in New York by

A New York classic that I have somehow never visited in all of the years I have lived here.  Sometimes it is necessary to have family visiting to get me to the east side.  I made an excellent choice with the tutto crudo and the photo does not do it justice as it was an extremely beautiful plate.  But my favorite touch of the meal may have been the honeycomb that was brought out with my cheese course.  Entertainment for the adults as well as the kids.


Tutto Crudo – shaved raw tuna, salmon, branzino, vegetables, puffed rice
 Vitello – veal tenderloin, sunchoke, leeks, castelmagno cheese fonduta, hazelnut, white truffles
 Cheese

NYC – 10/17/15 – Sadelle’s, NYCWFF with Virgilio Martinez and Matthew Lightner, and Nomad Bar

Posted in New York by

Sadelle’s
Another visit and I wish that I could say that the service improved but sadly such was not the case.  Although I did have it much better than the people seated on either side of me who were missing dishes and had to ask repeatedly if they were coming or forgotten.  And not much of a spoiler that on my most recent visit this weekend it is still not good.  As I’ve never had any service issues at any of the other Major Food Group spots, it does baffle me a bit what is going on here.  Growing too quickly perhaps?  But nevertheless I will continue to return because I love the food.  The salads are what I want to eat everyday for lunch if I could.

Beverly – turkey, cheddar, beet, bacon, tomato
Pickles


NYCWFF – Virgilio Martinez and Matthew Lightner
Most of me just wants to say that this was a complete sh*t show, the end.  I was really looking forward to this dinner to have Matthew Lightner back in town and to finally have Virgilio Martinez’s food and maybe decide if I would ever make the trek to his restaurant in Peru.  The NYC Wine and Food Festival (NYCWFF) has been in existence long enough that there is really no excuse for such poor organization and service, especially at one of the priciest events of the weekend.  Of the hors d’oeuvres, we somehow only received 2 and after inquiring several times as the dinner proceeded were told that the kitchen had run out.  When the number of guests are known and the room fairly small, I still don’t understand how this was possible especially as these were not passed hors d’oeuvres.  Our table was ignored by the servers and when we questioned this and complained, the response and lack of even an apology from the organizers was disappointing at best. When paying a lot for a dinner, having to do battle to just get the food on the menu is absurd. I’ve had a good run of events at the NYCWFF but I think this is the end of the road for me.

Tart of Sprouted Grain with garden salsa and smoked clams
Rock of the Sea Razor Clams with avocado cream
Pseudocereals with Andean grains and citrus
  

Marine Soil Scallops with aji amarillo tiger’s milk and seaweed

Porridge of Heirloom Rice and Smoked Fish with mushrooms and sourdough
 BBQ Lamb with petals of beets and rose, aromatic red sauce
 Cacao and Chaco Clay, chocolate ganache, chaco clay and dragon fruit

Nomad Bar
And when dinner is underwhelming and you are still hungry where else to end up by Nomad Bar for my favorite cocktail, Satan’s Circus, plus a hot dog.  I’m not sure how I got by before this place was open.


  

NYC – 10/16/15 – Lupulo

Posted in New York by

How fortuitous that I find myself in this neighborhood very often. There may be a few subsequent posts but this is one that will have to drop off of my blog as I like it too much. All of these dishes I could eat everyday and its a challenge to try other things on the menu.

Pate de Carapau – Portuguese mackerel spread, toast

Salada de Tomate e Requeijao – Eckerton Farms tomato salad, fresh cows milk cheese, opal basil and olive oil

Red Snapper Cru – Red snapper served raw, coconut milk, kaffir-lime broth, fermented serrano, benne seeds

NYC – 10/13/15 – Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop and Seamstress

Posted in New York by

Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop
I’ve wanted to try this breakfast ramen since it was added to the menu but getting to the west side in the morning is not the easiest.  If I could start my day in this neighborhood everyday this would become a very bad habit.  Absolutely loved it!  Although clearly it was early as I have no idea why I did not add an egg.

Breakfast all day ramen – dashi-cheddar, taylor ham, scallion omelet, whole wheat noodle

Pork Buns

Seamstress
I’ve been to Seamstress a few times for their fantastic cocktails but this was my first opportunity to have dinner here.  Surprisingly really great food.  Unfortunately its quite dark so the photography is not the best.  But easily one of the best things about the UES.  And really when was the last time you had a baked Alaska??

Market Pickles

Peekytoe crab salad

Smoked & Fried Yardbird

Wild mushrooms

Fried cauliflower

Baked Alaska

NYC – 10/9/15 – Sadelle’s

Posted in New York by

My first attempt to visit Sadelle’s unfortunately was on a Monday and I did not realize that they were closed.  Its probably good that I gave them an additional week to work out some of the kinks.  There are several restaurants where terrible service completely ruined the experience for me and because the food was not exceptional I will never return.  On this visit to Sadelle’s service was honestly a complete disaster.  My table evidently fell through the cracks with no server assigned and I sat for 25 minutes before even being able to catch somebody’s attention.  And it really went downhill from there.  However in spite of this Sadelle’s is one of my favorite new restaurants of the year.  I absolutely loved the waldorf salad including the lemon vinaigrette which tastes exactly like one I used to make.  I wasn’t expecting anything great from the house beets but this may be the best beet salad I’ve ever had.  The fresh herbs and lemon zest made them somewhat addicting.  While I believe that food and service are equal parts of the experience, on rare occasions great food is enough to forgive the other issues.  I took a chocolate babka to-go and may have eaten the whole thing in two days (even though I hate to admit it).

Waldorf salad – chicken, raisin, walnut, celery, apple
 House beets
 Chocolate babka

NYC – 10/6/15 – Contra & Commis

Posted in New York by

For some reason this is the first Contra collaboration dinner that I have managed to attend.  Such a fun evening and I’m glad to have finally experienced some of James Syhabout’s cooking as I have yet to get myself to Commis.   So many fantastic dishes that it is difficult to choose a favorite but I think I would have to go with the trout skin as I could have easily eaten a dozen more.  Looking forward to the next of these collaborations!

trout skin with smoked roe, cultured cream
 bread
 oyster, horseradish & red shiso, dried scallop broth
 cabbage & caramelized sunchoke, dill, anchovy
 hake, warm soup apple, verbena, licorice, caviar
 treviso, carrot, pistachio
 raw beef, kale, sorrel
 squab, ginger & plums, hazelnuts
 grape & oats

NYC – 9/12/15 – Semilla

Posted in New York by

Semilla had been on my to-do list for a while but as several rave reviews rolled in I was afraid that it might be overhyped and so I just kept putting it off.  A month later I am sure this menu is completely outdated but the seasonal tomato dishes were outstanding, especially the perfect tomato tart (they should have sold extras!).  Just like a pan con tomate the comparative simplicity of tomatoes and pastry or bread is one of my favorite things when done well.  I have never had a chawanmushi that I enjoyed prior to this dinner as I suffer from texture issues with certain dishes such as this.  But I am still shocked that I loved this one.   And it was the same story with the roasted eggplant course.  While I don’t have many dislikes, I think its very special for a dinner to be able to completely change my opinion on more than one of them.  I enjoyed this dinner so much that my only complaint is that the experience felt very rushed.  I was at the end of the first seating but as people began to finish and leave I felt a bit like the store was closing and I needed to hurry up and complete my purchase.

Tomato gazpacho with peaches, rat tail radishes & black olives
 Roasted tomato with corn
 Corn chawanmushi with matsutake mushrooms & ham 
Roasted eggplant with pepper leaves & grapes

Tomato salad with cucumbers & scallops

Tomato tart
Chicken of the woods mushrooms with corn & mole
 Peaches, saffron & bitter almond
 Tarragon profiterole with wild blueberry & buttermilk

NYC – 9/10/15 – Wildair

Posted in New York by

I really wasn’t expecting much from Wildair. Sure I have very much enjoyed Jeremiah Stone and Fabian von Hauske’s Contra a few steps away. But at most I was hoping for a solid go-to stop before shows at Rockwood Music Hall. While waiting for my friend to arrive I ordered the cheese selection which was unremarkable and so I continued to think this meal would be just ok. But when the rest of our dishes started arriving I was completely surprised by just how good they were. We loved the spicy tuna so much that we reordered it as dessert and I can count on one hand the number of things I have ever reordered at the same meal. Its so much fun to have no expectations and be completely blown away.

Selection of cheeses

Summer squash, ricotta, purslane

Scallop crudo, kale, cucumber, ruby red
 Beef tartare, smoked cheddar, chestnut
 Georgia white shrimp, celery, cilantro
 Spicy tuna, scallion, tomatoes

NYC – 9/9/15 – Eleven Madison Park

Posted in New York by

For many years EMP was one of my favorite places in New York.  Back when the menu was a la carte I enjoyed many lunches there as it was possible to just pop out of work for a relatively quick meal (and yes using “back when” makes me feel 20 years older than I actually am). I had taken a bit of a break from it recently as it seemed to have become a bit too kitschy.  But as reviews and rankings seemed to only get better I kept wondering if I was missing out. And so I made an impromptu visit to the lounge earlier this summer where unfortunately I had a very disappointing experience, i.e. the sort that would make me completely write off most other places. But in this case it just made me sad as I had so many great memories here.

So I gave it another shot, in the dining room this time, where happily the experience was completely different.  Service was impeccable. Actually improved from previous dinners where I had some nitpicky comments.  The caviar course was a standout for me and I wish I had taken a second photo when I found the egg underneath. Yes an egg makes everything even better in my opinion.  And while the lobster boil could have bordered on gimmicky, I love presentations that show a more formal restaurant isn’t taking itself too seriously.  My other favorite had to be the farmer’s cheese sundae as I loved the concept and its one I have not seen before (plus somehow the older I’ve gotten the more I’d rather have cheese than a traditional dessert). And I hope the tonging tradition makes more of a comeback as this was very cool to finally see in person.

Lately I always seem to be a bit ‘down’ on NYC dining and feel that I have far better experiences when I am traveling, especially in hospitality.  But thank you Will Guidara for exhibiting what hospitality should be at this level.  It is rare that my expectations are exceeded and you certainly did so.

(….and very proud of myself that I got a perfect score on “Name That Milk.”)

Cheddar – Savory Black & White Cookie with Apple

Tuna – Marinated with Cucumber

 Eggplant – Slow-Cooked with Shelling Beans and Mint
 Squid – Poached with Peppers and Artichoke
 Tomato – Salad with Basil and Red Onion
 Caviar  – Benedict with Egg, Corn and Ham
 bread
 Foie Gras – Seared with Plum and Thyme
 Lobster – Boil with Clams, Shrimp and Beans


 Tonging Sunflower – Braised with Green Tomato and Sunflower Sprouts
 Duck – Roasted with Lavender, Honey, Apricots, and Fennel

 Farmer’s Cheese – Sundae with Honey, Grape, Sorrel, and Oats

 Whey – Sorbet with Caramelized Milk and Yogurt

 Berry – Cheesecake with White Currant Sorbet and Raspberry Vinegar
 Chocolate – “Name That Milk”

 Snowcones in the Kitchen

NYC – 8/9/15 – Chef’s Club

Posted in New York by

Very occasionally I am wrong. When Chef’s Club opened I thought the concept was a bit ridiculous. Considering the general dislike that New Yorker’s have for out-of-town absentee chef’s I saw little that made sense about a menu that was a compilation of dishes by 3 such chefs. A permanent pop-up concept like Intro in Chicago is more of what I thought Chef’s Club would be. I have previously dined in the Chef’s Club Studio and the experience was wonderful. But this was my first time in the dining room as well as my only restaurant week meal this year. I may have mentioned it in a prior review, but this dining room is probably one of my favorites in NYC. The layout of the open kitchen allows for a maximum number of guests to have a fantastic view, the bar is absolutely stunning and the Puck building an icon on its own. I can’t even imagine how long just the bar miss en place takes. And while I am always skeptical of restaurant week menus, Chef’s Club used only the regular menu which indicated which dishes could be part of the restaurant week price as well as supplements for all others. I believe we were evenly split on supplements or not and did add a pizza after watching them being made in front of us all evening. An overall lovely experience and it was fantastic to enjoy restaurant week without feeling like you were settling for a menu you didn’t really want.
  Salad of the month – market tomatoes, ricotta, garlic crouton, soppressata, basil, charred tomato vinaigrette  Maine diver scallops – quinoa, meyer lemon, calabrian chili oil  Thai glazed short ribs – barrel aged fish sauce, broccoli, peanuts, mint cilantro  Colorado lamb chops, cotechino, endive, white beans, pear  Diavola pizzetta – salami napolitana, smoked mozzarella, san marzano tomato, chili oil  Dessert of the month – plum upside down cake, lemon sorbet, cream anglaise, plum caramel sauce  Ice cream and sorbet     

NYC – 8/4/15 – La Pecora Bianca

Posted in New York by

I love having another great dining option in a neighborhood that I find myself in most days of the week and often quite hungry following a workout. A very wise friend of mine cautioned me against visiting new restaurants too soon after opening and I probably should have listened. Service was completely confused and at one point I almost left. To be fair this was day 2 so I forgive and shouldn’t even mention the service issues as they are probably ironed out by now. The salads were exactly what I was looking for on a hot evening. And a fantastic idea with the small bites that everybody receives to start. I definitely see many return visits in my future.
 
Formaggi and Salumi Pomodori – Garden peach tomatoes, pickled shallots, basil Verdure Verdi – Sugar snap, snow, and green peas, fava beans, asparagus, pecorino   

NYC – 7/22/15 – Rebelle

Posted in New York by

I finally made it to Rebelle and I think it took me at least 30 minutes to get over the fact that this space used to be R Bar.  Having spent a few interesting evenings there it was just crazy to see it as something so completely different.  

The menu is divided into four sections and you are encouraged to order a dish from each which makes me wonder why this isn’t just a 4 course prix fixe.  That said, the portion sizes are small enough that you can even add a course and not feel overwhelmed (and which we happily did with the foie gras).  I’m now a bit torn as to whether Rebelle or Pearl & Ash will be my future go-to before heading to the Bowery Ballroom!

Foie Gras
Fluke – brown butter, sherry, caper, lemon
 Lamb Tartare – green chickpea, olive, yogurt, espelette
 Scallop – turnip, apple, green juice
 Carrots – chanterelle, blue foot, snap peas, black pepper

Monkfish – shellfish, hen of the wood, sea bean

Peach – poached peach, lavender granite, perilla tapioca

NYC – 6/29/15 – Ai Fiori

Posted in New York by

I oddly find myself writing this in the midst of restaurant week. I know everybody in the industry dislikes it, I no longer care for it myself because I never actually want anything on the restaurant week menu, and I always wonder why anybody participates. But the first time I dined at Ai Fiori was at lunch during restaurant week several years ago. I have come back many times since and have happily followed the white label burger to Costata. So perhaps restaurant week isn’t such a bad idea after all as at least for a minority of diners, a good experience will translate into loyal customers.

I seem to have a rather large weakness for Michael White’s pasta. And while the fusilli will always be my favorite, the various versions of agnolotti at Ai Fiori definitely come in second place.  Its very rare that I even order pasta because why bother if its not this good? Dining at Ai Fiori is always lovely and this was no exception. Pasta aside we loved the very summery cocktails and desserts and while I seem to have been ordering quite a lot of octopus lately, this one definitely ranks near the top of the list. As tends to happen far too often, I was distracted by conversation and didn’t take notes on the dishes so the only descriptions I have are from the ones still on the menu.

I look forward to checking out the newest Altamarea addition soon!


amuse 
octopus
 Crudo di Passera – fluke crudo, American sturgeon caviar, Meyer lemon    Trofie Nero – ligurian crustacean ragu, seppia, scallops, spiced mollica
 Agnolotti – braised veal parcels, roasted eggplant, pine nuts, balsamic sugo 
Astice – butter poached Nova Scotia lobster scallops
 Torta di Olio – mascarpone mousse, Sicilian pistachio, strawberry sorbetto  

NYC – 7/20/15 – Charlie Bird

Posted in New York by

I hope to spend the remainder of the summer revisiting some old favorites that I have neglected for way too long.  There seem to be so few places open between lunch and dinner and while they don’t serve the entire menu, what more is really needed on a brutally hot day than my favorite salad in New York (with an added bonus of my favorite cocktail of all time)?

Last Word

Crudo

Farro Salad 

NYC – 7/17/15 – Huertas

Posted in New York by

I haven’t been to Huertas since the menu format changed and it was nice to be back! So happy to have stumbled upon Chef Miller at City Grit what seems like ages ago.

 Pintxos 
Almejas – clams, fennel, lemon, herbs, bread  Pimientos – shishito, white bean, anchovy
 Pulpo – octopus, potato, pimenton Migas – summer squash, jamon, fried egg, crumbs    Vieira a la Zurrukutuna – scallops, peppers, corn, tomatoes

NYC – 7/13/15 – Gramercy Tavern

Posted in New York by

It has been so long time since I have been to Gramercy Tavern that I am actually embarrassed. I need to keep reminding myself to stop chasing everything new and revisit the classics. Such an absolutely perfect lunch. Its lovely to feel like its a vacation day mid-week!

My favorite wine of summer  
Fluke and Summer Squash Tartare, Cucumber, Cherries and Basil  
Lamb Flatbread, Zucchini, Reading Raclette and Mint  

NYC – 7/5/15 – Marea and Eleven Madison Park

Posted in New York by

Marea
I swore that I would order something other than the fusilli on my next visit but then I just couldn’t make myself. I did try the other pastas ordered at the table and of course they were all fantastic. Someday I swear I will deviate!

Seppia – cuttlefish tagliatelle, soffrito crudo, bottarga di muggine  
Polipo – griddle octopus, smoked potatoes, pickled red onion, radish, chilies, tonnato  
Fusilli – durum wheat pasta, red wine braised octopus, bone marrow  
Tortelli – potato and ramp ravioli, soppressata, peas  
Garganelli – tuna ragu, guanciale, broccoli rabe pesto  
Tagliolini – Manila clams, calamari, white wine, hot chilis   

  

Lounge at EMP
I have been meaning to plan a return visit to EMP for quite some time. But with every new accolade it receives, I seem to become less interested as I don’t think it lives up to the hype. While the voting system of the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants is questionable at best, and I want US restaurants to do well, when EMP ranked at #5 this year it seemed a bit of a joke. So hoping that the experience would make me realize I had it all wrong we decided to stop in the lounge for a light dinner.

There seem to be dozens of servers at EMP and while I don’t know what the actual ratio is to diners, my perception is always at least 2:1. When you scan the dining room (still my favorite in NY) they seemed to be lined up around the perimeter just waiting for something to happen. So it was entirely unexplainable that we sat in the lounge for going on 10 minutes without anybody coming over and thus had no menus. One member of our group ordered a wine by the glass that was entirely too warm, and while she probably should have declined it when she was poured a small taste, shouldn’t a restaurant of this caliber serve wine at the correct temperature? Then several accompaniments arrived with the cheese but none were explained and we were left wondering if they really were meant for the cheese or for the foie. And the foie in no way compared to the one had a day prior at Per Se. Many of these things I would overlook elsewhere but at this level I admittedly nitpick because I have much higher expectations. And while we were in the lounge, I expect the service to be equal to that in the dining room. This is the 5th best restaurant in the world? Definitely not.

 
Marinated Foie Gras with Chamomile, Orange Blossom and White Asparagus  Butter Poached Lobster with Dandelion and Ginger  Selection of Local Cheeses with Rhubarb Jam and Sorrel Relish    

7/4/15 – Per Se, Elephant Bar at the Nomad Hotel, Dead Rabbit, and Batard

Posted in New York by

Per Se

The 4th of July is perhaps my favorite day of the year to be in New York. It is so quiet and basically empty. No battling hordes of people to get anywhere and you can drive through the city with amazing speed. What better place to end up for a maximum feeling of peacefulness but the salon at Per Se for lunch? Even with rain outside this is still one of my favorite views in NY and each time I’m at Per Se I feel like I am somewhere other than NYC. Consistently perfect. Beautiful plates and I still think the best service in the city.  I love the extras in the salon such as the salmon cornets (which will always be one of my absolute favorite bites) and mignardises.



“Terrine” of Hudson Valley Moulard Duck Foie Gras
Squire Hill Farm’s Currants, Market Fennel, Spiced Walnuts and Orange Creme Fraiche
Served with Toasted Brioche

California Candycot Salad
Chanterelle Mushrooms, French Breakfast Radishes, Petite Basil and Riesling Emulsion


Elysian Fields Farm’s “Cote D’Agneau”
Squash “en Persillade,” Jingle Bell Peppers, Garlic “Confit” and REd Wine Vinegar Sauce

Grilled Fillet of Gulf Coast Amberjack
Celery Root “Pastrami,” Poached Bing Cherries, Mustard Cress and Miso-Mustard Butter

Wolfe Ranch Bobwhite Quail Breast
Caramelized Shallots, French Leeks, Flowering Watercress and Stewed Black Mission Figs 
I wish I could remember what this one was!
 Coffee & Donuts
 Mignardises

 Elephant Bar at the Nomad

Unfortunately the Nomad Bar decided to close this year on July 4th which nearly derailed our entire day as we were counting on an afternoon hot dog.  At least the cocktails are the same at the Elephant Bar.

Dead Rabbit

Congrats to the Dead Rabbit on your Tales wins this year!  Always one of my favorite places in NY and if it wasn’t so far out of the way I would be here far too often.  I seem to have missed quite a few drink pictures, or they went down way too quickly.  Cannot wait for Greenriver to open in Chicago!





Batard

I have been meaning to get to Batard since it opened but sometimes it takes out-of-town guests to give you a push.  We arrived early for cocktails after reading about their collection of vintage glasses which were absolutely beautiful.  Such a lovely summer menu and the perfect amount of food.
Hamachi – fennel, passion fruit vinaigrette
English Pea Tortellini – burrata, caraway, pesto
Grilled Swordfish – melon, castelvetrano olives, warm ginger-citrus vinaigrette
Selection of cheeses

NYC – 6/26/15 – Rosie’s

Posted in New York by

This new restaurant from Marc Meyer and Vicki Freeman occupies a fantastic corner and the retractable doors make it perfect for summer dining. While the marinated sea scallops were in desperate need of salt, the house made tortillas were quite good. Definitely a solid choice for this neighborhood.
  Marinated sea scallops, lime, green chile, cucumber  Grilled cactus, little gem lettuce, onions, jalapeño, tomato, queso blanco, lime, olive oil   Pickled vegetables & red jalapeños
Grilled tortilla, green chorizo, avocado leaf black beans, queso oaxaca, charred tomatillo salsa  

NYC – 6/25/15 – Pearl & Ash

Posted in New York by

Consistently my favorite pre-show at Bowery Ballroom dinner stop. While everything was fantastic, the long beans are the dish that I oddly can’t stop thinking about. However one of the more off-putting service experiences I have had in recent memory. Our server tried very hard to push us into ordering a few more plates. I often ask if I have ordered too much or too little when doing shared plates, but this night had not even asked. I would welcome a helpful comment if I had under ordered but when the customer says no the sales pitch needs to stop, which it did not. And ironically after being told we didn’t order enough, we never received one of the dishes we did order!
  heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic scape  hamachi, jicama, ricotta, arugula  
  long beans, kale, peanut, bbq sauce  bavette, cauliflower, fava beans  Blueberry, corn, lemon verbena  Waffle  

NYC – 6/22/15 – Le Bernardin

Posted in New York by

How can you possibly have a bad day when you have lunch at Le Bernardin?  Each time I am able to pop into the bar for lunch, I feel quite fortunate to live here.  If I ever move this will be near the top of the list of things that I will greatly miss.  Always impeccable.

 
Hamachi – hamachi tartare, cucumber, lemon-citrus emulsion
 Salmon – barely cooked organic salmon, pea puree, yuzu butter sauce
 Sorbets

NYC – 6/14/15 – Fuku

Posted in New York by

I seem to suffer the same problem with every restaurant that requires you to physically wait in line. By the time you stand on the sidewalk for what seems like hours, too frequently in blazing heat (because who would do this in summer?), you are hungry, thirsty, inevitably need to use the restroom, and at this point will eat almost anything. It’s adding insult to injury when the restroom is out of order by the time you finally make it inside. The sandwich was certainly enormous with great crunch. But my chicken seemed to be tough and I had a very difficult time taking a bite without pulling the whole sandwich apart (I will note my companions did not have the same problem). As other reviewers have said the fries were abysmal which I just don’t understand. They don’t need to be the best, but there is no excuse for fries this bad. While others have surprisingly loved the salad, all I can say was that it was better than the fries.  I will give it another shot on a weekday when hopefully the line will be shorter.


  

NYC – 6/13/15 – Santina

Posted in New York by

As many reviews have said, Santina is the hit of the summer.  Its definitely my favorite opening this year and I will continue to visit frequently.  Hence this may be the last time I add it to the blog otherwise the entires will become far too numerous.  The food is consistently fantastic but on this visit, despite being one of the first parties in the restaurant at 10:15 am, we were seated at the worst possible table right by the entrance to the kitchen and bathrooms.  Perhaps a minor detail, yet no need for that when the dining room is completely empty.  I somehow didn’t take a photo, but a big thank you to the kitchen for the pannetone french toast.  We didn’t even think to order it but it was some of the best french toast I’ve ever had!


Giardinia Crudité

Salmon Affumicato Cecina

Arugula Fig Salad

Shrimp Zingara with a poached egg

NYC – 6/9/15 – Contra

Posted in New York by

Yet another restaurant that had been on my to-do list for ages but with too much time spent out of town I had never made it here.  But with a set menu, at a very reasonable price point, it seemed like the perfect spot for my birthday dinner. A perfectly sized menu and perfect for the season. I’m sorry it took me so long to get here!



lettuce, tarragon, ramp

snap peas, fresh cheese, herbs

squid, asparagus, walnut
 scallop, sorrel, sea beans
 beef, pistachio, broccoli rabe
 peach, honey, occhipinti olive oil

strawberry and corn

NYC – 6/3/15 – Empellon Cocina

Posted in New York by

Since it opened this has always been one of my go to places on the short list of restaurants that I visit repeatedly. I was very curious to see what the remodel looked like in person. Waiting at the bar for my guest to arrive, it honestly just felt really weird because the old bar was so unique and I felt like I was somewhere else completely. But oddly mid way through dinner all felt right again.  I loved the concept, and taste of the deviled egg filling, but felt a bit like it was odd to just eat on its own because of the texture and resorted to spreading some on the chips that came with the guacamole.  The sliced mango was outstanding as was the ceviche.  The last time I had friend smelt was at Alinea so I had high hopes for these tacos and I could have eaten at least two more.  A definite must order!  Loved both of the desserts but unfortunately didn’t write down the descriptions.  I’m looking forward to returning for the kitchen table and the pan-roasted lobster because when the table beside us got it we immediately regretted not doing so.

Pan-Galactic – Pandan-infused rum, oloroso sherry, lemon juice and egg white

Guacamole with pistachios

Deviled egg filling with trout roe

Sliced mango with perky toe crab, chile powder and lime

Ceviche of the day

Fried Maine smelts with cabbage and jalapeño relish

Shredded chicken with yucatecan pipian and toasted pumpkin seeds


NYC – 6/2/15 – Marea

Posted in New York by

Before switching jobs I was able to get to Marea for lunch much more frequently than I can now. My mind was evidently so focused on the fusilli that I didn’t even take a picture of my first course. And while it was a fantastic crudo, I can’t even recall which one. The fusilli remains probably my absolute favorite dish in NYC. I rarely order pasta when dining out, and certainly never crave it, but this one I do. Constantly. As a challenge to myself I am going to try my best to order something different when I return for brunch this sunday. Something tells me I won’t be successful.

Fusilli – durum wheat pasta, red wine braised octopus, bone marrow

NYC – 5/24/15 – Spyglass Rooftop, Extra Fancy and Maison Premiere

Posted in New York by

Spyglass Rooftop
While the drinks are overpriced, it is hard to beat this view!

Extra Fancy
Frozen G&T. Enough said.

Maison Premiere
This may be the best outdoor dining space in the city. You truly feel like you are somewhere else. Unfortunately as it was so dark my photos are as well and I can barely decipher what we had. But regardless I’m just very proud of myself for ordering oysters a few weeks after a horrific bout of food poisoning. Definitely looking forward to getting back here a few times this summer!

              

NYC – 5/23/15 – Clocktower

Posted in New York by

I’ve been a fan of Jason Atherton’s for quite a while and so was quite excited to try Clocktower soon after it opened.  In general out-of-town chef’s who open restaurants in NYC when not living here just don’t make it and I’m usually not sad to see them go.  But I certainly hope that Clocktower sticks around for a while.  There were some service issues with the timing of courses but as I was there so soon after opening I forgive them!  I’m generally not a fan of cocktails with savory components but these were some of the best that I have had and actually some of the best cocktails overall that I have had in NY in recent memory.  While the starters and salad were great, and the cote de boeuf amazing, its oddly the green bean and foie gras salad that stole the show for me.  A completely standout side dish that should be its own starter!

Los Pollos Hermanos – Del Maguey Vida mescal, Olmeca Altos blanco, herb infused agave, lemon juice, chicken stock, egg white
Give Peas a Chance – Beefeater gin, yellow Chartreuse, salted pea cordial, lemon juice, mint, Butterfly absinthe, egg white, flora

Warm white asparagus, slow-cooked egg, chicken thigh, chicken cornflakes

Roasted sea scallops, ragout of line caught squid, cepe, bacon, celery root puree

English breakfast radishes, salad leaves, cucumbers, feta and pistachio puree

40 day dry aged cote de boeuf 32 oz, green bean and foie gras salad, bone marrow jus, potato gratin

  
Strawberries and cream, vanilla custard, olive oil cake, verjus sorbet

Mignardises

NYC – 5/13/15 – Shuko

Posted in New York by

A multitude of fantastic reviews have already been written about Shuko and as I wholeheartedly agree with all of them I won’t bother repeating what has already been said. As suggested by others we opted for the longer Kaiseki menu for the first visit. I look forward to returning to try the shorter omakase menu. Unfortunately no menu and most of the courses came so quickly that I wouldn’t have been able to keep up even if I was writing them down.

   
                                               

NYC – 4/29/15 – Costata

Posted in New York by

I couldn’t be happier that the White Label burger is finally available outside of Ai Fiori. I have no idea why this burger doesn’t end up on more best of NY burger lists other than maybe too many people haven’t had it. Hands down one of my 3 favorite burgers in NYC. Everything else was wonderful, but I can be honest and say I was just here for the burger.


Carrots Oysters
 Artichokes Alla Giudea

White Label Burger – bacon marmalade, mcclures pickles, American cheese, fries

NYC – 4/20/15 – Cosme

Posted in New York by

I have to admit that I just wasn’t as blown away by Cosme as everybody else in NY and beyond seems to be. Maybe it was just overhyped and my expectations were too high. The space is comfortable and service was quite good. But overall it was just ‘good.’  After ordering one cocktail that was far more ice than cocktail, I switched to wine. The chicharron and hamachi were good, but I’ve had far better versions elsewhere. As someone who favors more savory desserts I did quite like the husk meringue but it certainly wasn’t the prettiest to look at. I went back to re-read the NYT review and do find it interesting that it contained an Estella analogy as its the other NYC restaurant that I think is extremely overhyped and I completely disagree with all of the accolades it has received. But I guess you can’t love everything.

Chicharron, radish, cilantro, avocado, hot sauce

Sliced raw hamachi, fermented serranos, fish sauce, black lime

Smoked raw sepia, salsa mexicana, avocado

Duck carnitas, onions, radishes salsa verde

Husk meringue with corn mousse

NYC – 4/12/15 – King Bee

Posted in New York by

I typically try to avoid the first day of anything to allow a restaurant some time to get the kinks out.  But if I hadn’t known, I wouldn’t have guessed that this was the first brunch service at King Bee.  We weren’t crazy about the pork cracklins I have to admit.  But foie makes everything better!

Pork cracklins, peanut, caramel, malt vinegar powder  
Brûléed bread pudding, foie gras, rhubarb, cheddar, maple syrup

Mushroom buckwheat crepe galette, maitake, trumpet royal, shiitake, rucola, spring onion confit, egg

Farro salad

Louisiana crawfish roll

NYC – 4/4/15 – Cafe Boulud

Posted in New York by

One of my earliest NYC restaurant memories is a trip to Cafe Boulud with my aunt & uncle who were visiting from out of town well over a decade ago.  That of course was the Andrew Carmellini era and while I don’t remember anything that I ate, I must have loved it as I followed Chef Carmellini when he left to open A Voce.  For no reason other the UES seems so far away I hadn’t been back since.  So it was appropriate to finally return with my same relatives so many years later.  Still lovely so many years later.


Tai Snapper Tartare, caraway, paddlefish caviar, watermelon radish, cucumber dill broth

Crescent Farms Pekin Duck, lavender honey, kasha, currants, turnip, arugula, jus de canard

Colorado Lamb Loin, fava bean, panisse, spring garlic, morel mushroom, jus

Crêpe Cake, poached rhubarb, thyme diplomat, ricotta sorbet

Marrakesh Delight

  

NYC – 3/29/15 – Cafe Cluny

Posted in New York by

Its been ages since I’ve been to Cafe Cluny and ended up here for a late brunch purely by accident.  Wherever it was that we wanted to go was in between lunch and dinner service.  Just as I had remembered it, always a solid choice, the salad presentations were lovely and the burger satisfied the craving I had for weeks! 




NYC – 3/16/15 – dell’anima

Posted in New York by

Yet another place that I have not been to in much too long.  Perhaps I have always thought of dell’anima as a date spot in which case I suppose I am not dating enough.  An absolutely lovely meal with a front row seat at the chef’s counter.  And again waiting months to update this blog has come back to bite me as several menu items have changed and thus I have no descriptions.  Oh well….these were all delicious!

Fluke crudo

Arugula – lemon, parmigiano reggiano

 charred octopus –   Rice beans, chorizo, chicories

Bone marrow – testa, charred cippini, pickled red onion

NYC – 3/15/15 – Marta

Posted in New York by

I am very happy that the service at Marta has improved since my first visit shortly after opening.  As I like a thin, crisp crust this is one of my favorites in NYC.  But my previous experience left so much to be desired that I was very hesitant to return.  I still think there is much room for improvement but at least it is headed in the right direction.

Suppli Alla Terrazza – green risotto croquettes, mozzarella, mixed herbs  Seppioline – grilled baby cuttlefish, potato, calabrese chili
Funghi – fontina, hen of the woods, hedgehogs, red onion, thyme
Anatra – duck confit, fennel, golden raisins, fontina

NYC – 3/14/15 – ABC Kitchen, the Nomad Bar, Estela, Ten Bells

Posted in New York by

ABC Kitchen

I must keep reminding myself to get back to some of my old favorites.  This is one of my favorite dining rooms in NYC especially mid day.  The food is always bright and just feels healthy.  Well at least until the carrot cake but it was fantastic.  Shaved raw fluke, crushed olives, dill, lemon and chilies  Mushroom toast, pecorino, lemon and herbs  Cured meats and local cheeses Roast carrot and avocado salad, crunchy seeds, sour cream and citrus Kale salad with lemon, Serrano chilies and mint Brown butter carrot cake with cream cheese frosting  The Nomad Bar

When I recently found myself here twice within 24 hours I started to wonder if I had a bit of a problem.  But at some point you have to play favorites.  On this day it was the perfect stop for pre-theatre drinks and snacks.


Clams baked with bacon, garlic & breadcrumbs


Crudite 

Estela

I finally have to admit that I disagree with just about everybody else and do not understand any of the hype around Estela.  I’ve given it second chances but maybe was less impressed than previous visits.  Maybe I have aged a few decades, but it was so dark that we had to use our iPhones to read the menu.  And while it was maybe cute the first time, I just don’t get why every dish is camouflaged with a layer of something.  When dishes are meant to be shared, the dish has to be almost completely disassembled to determine what is underneath and how to best split it.  And in near darkness this is almost impossible.  And while everything is very good I suppose I just don’t find anything on the menu to be that interesting.  I hate to be in the minority, but I just don’t get it.  Sorry!Mussels escabeche on toastWaldorf salad with yogurt and pistachiosBurrata with salsa verde and charred breadSteak with spicy marmalade, potatoes, and taleggioRicotta dumplings with mushrooms and pecorino sardoTen Bells

We finished the night with new friends, quite a few bottles of amazing wine, and pizza after closing time (which of course always seems like a good idea at 3am!).

NYC – 3/13/15 – Momofuku Ko

Posted in New York by

I will quickly sum this up – I loved my second trip to the new Ko just as much as the first.  I still feel like it’s an entirely different restaurant from the original, at a minimum Ko 2.0, and am still impressed by how much service has improved.  The menu was largely the same as 2 months earlier (which I have posted about previously) so I will spare the descriptions but do have to mention that the epoisses potatoes with the venison were to die for.  If you haven’t been…go!


                                  

NYC – 3/7/15 – Pizza Beach and the Seamstress

Posted in New York by

Pizza Beach

Before having family living (temporarily) on the UES my outings there were few and far between.  Luckily Pizza Beach arrived at the perfect time and in the perfect location.  The servers are extremely patient in the controlled chaos that seems to erupt earlier in the evening when the restaurant is full of children.  And while it is very kid friendly, adults will be quite satisfied with the menu.  I am though very picky about my pizza crust and so my only criticism is that I wish this was crisper.  But all of the toppings were great and we have made a return trip since this date!

Cannelli Bean Hummus – snap pea, radish & fennel crudite 

Meatballs – pomodoro sauce, grana padano

Tuscan Kale Salad

Citrus Salad

Spicy Soppressata Pizza

Speck with Arugula & Fennel Salad Pizza 

Purple Kale & Butternut Squash Pizza 

Lamb Merguez & Oaxaca cheese Pizza 

The Seamstress

Another fantastic addition to the UES and a reason to continue to visit the area after my family eventually leaves.  I’m so glad I found this just barely before all of the media caught on.  Such a great space, fantastic decor and amazing drinks!

  

 

NYC – 3/4/15 – Dirty French

Posted in New York by

It has taken me much too long to get to Dirty French.  In my defense I was traveling most of the first few months it was open.  But I was also afraid that I was going to be underwhelmed and that it was going to be too loud in addition to various other negative comments I had read online.  The fantastic flatbread started dinner on the right note and overall all of the food was excellent.  It was loud yes, but not as bad as I had anticipated.  And service was extremely friendly, although I sat with an empty cocktail glass in front of me for much too long without being asked if I wanted another.  Much like Carbone I can’t help but feeling that it is overpriced and so it won’t be in regular rotation.  But it was perfect for celebrating a friend’s birthday and I do look forward to a return visit.

Flatbread w/ Fromage blanc

Carpaccio – lamb, aubergine, yogurt 

Millefeuille – trumpet royale, green curry 

Meunière – brook trout, sesame, dried apricots 

Duck a l’ Orange – ras el hanout, preserved oranges

Chèvre Salade – kale, sunchokes, sand pear

Pommes Frites

Tatin – pineapple, banana, rum raisin ice cream

NYC – 2/28/15 – Upland

Posted in New York by

Unfortunately there are little things that can immediately turn me off to a restaurant.  I sat at an uncrowded bar early in the evening and after a few minutes one of the bartenders provided me with a drink menu.  Perhaps 10 minutes later an older gentleman sat beside me.  Shortly thereafter the bartender, who had never asked me for my order even though I had now been waiting for quite a while, asked the gentleman what he was having.  At this point the gentleman asked the bartender if he had already taken my order.  While I think this violates some basic rules of hospitality, ladies first is just proper manners and a customer shouldn’t have had to point this out.  This said, my dinner was quite good.  The salad beautiful, the lamb neck perfectly cooked and lightened by the greens on the plate.  While outstanding food can overcome poor service, I’m honesty not sure that I found the rest of the menu tempting enough to return anytime soon.

Five lettuce ‘caesar’ – Bordeaux radish + garlic anchovy vinaigrette

Slow cooked lamb neck – baby carrots, soft herbs + polenta

  

 

NYC – 2/21/15 – Santina

Posted in New York by

My first visit to Santina happened to be during a snow storm and the bright cheery seaside decor was completely transporting.  But at the same time the glass walls offered a beautiful view of the snow falling in the hours before the plows come out and it turns into an ugly mess.  This is probably my favorite restaurant opening in NYC in the last year.  It truly doesn’t often happen that I feel the need to immediately return to a restaurant because I really want to try the majority of the menu.  While I did not try any of the pastas on this visit, everything I did have was very light, especially in comparison to Major Food Group’s other recent openings.

The lamb tartare was elevated with mint and olives and a terrific filling to the cecina, a chickpea pancake served in a cast-iron skillet.  But the stars of this dish were the accompanying salsa verde and tomato soffritto.  Separately both are extremely good, but together they are spectacular.  I wish I could eat the Tricolore splendido salad, topped with tuna carpaccio, everyday for lunch.  And the squash carpaccio is easily one of the best squash dishes I have ever had and so much more than I was expecting when I ordered it.

Fiori – gin, chamomile, Campari 

Lamb tartare cecina 

Tricolore splendido 

Amalfi gold – bourbon, orange, ginger, creme de peche

Squash carpaccio

Lime meringa 

 

NYC – 2/16/15 – Gato

Posted in New York by

Gato has been one of my favorites since it opened as evidenced by previous posts here. I’m always happy though to be able to bring somebody new. As much as I love the menu I am hoping that spring brings a few changes.

DJ DJ – Rittenhouse Rye, St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram, cognac, Kelso nut brown lager

Gato spreads with buckwheat pita –
Greek yogurt/charred green chile pesto
Chickpea, meyer lemon/smoked paprika
Whitebean, feta, garlic/walnut-piquillo relish

White anchovies, pink pepper, mint

Piquillo filled with raw tuna, saffron sauce

Eggplant, manchego, oregano, balsamic

Roasted octopus, tangerine vinaigrette, bacon, oregano

Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, pistachios

Kale and Wild Mushriom Paella – crispy artichokes, egg

Apple Tarte Tatin – salted calvados caramel, vanilla-black pepper gelato

NYC – 2/13/15 – the Nomad Bar

Posted in New York by

This really needs to be my last post about the Nomad Bar or it is going to overtake this blog.  It wasn’t planned for the evening but I had a burger craving all day and after working out found myself only 2 blocks away.  How could I not go??  Its somewhat miserable to battle the weekend crowds but totally worth it as always!

Hair Trigger – venezuelan rum, fernet branca, ginger, lime, cucumber

Brussels sprouts – roasted with smoked lentil & parmesan

Burger – dry aged with cheddar, red onion & pickles

Mott & Mulberry – rye whiskey, luxardo amaro abano, apple cider, lemon

NYC – 1/20/15 – Atera

Posted in New York by

I did perhaps way too much traveling in 2014 and neglected so much of NYC. I’m almost embarrassed to admit how long it has been since my last visit to Atera and I have no excuses as I have nothing but fond memories. Such a fantastic meal start to finish and while its hard to pick favorites, I keep thinking about the smoked mussels with their edible shells and the beet jerky which was a complete revelation. Will Douillet’s presence in just a few months is noticeable and the front of house experience was significantly improved over what I experienced in just a quick trip to the lounge a few months ago. Looking forward to a return visit this spring and taking advantage of what is amazing in NYC.

King crab – satsumaimo, winter cabbage

IMG_0535

IMG_0537
Caviar – tapenade, burnt cream

IMG_0539

IMG_0540
Madai – daikon, mushroom

IMG_0543
Winter salad – yellow vegetables

IMG_0545

IMG_0547
Sea urchin – carrot, lobster

IMG_0548

IMG_0549

IMG_0550
Shabu shabu – abalone, mangalitsa

IMG_0551

IMG_0552
Trout roe – squash, pumpkin seed

IMG_0554

IMG_0556
Smoked trout – brown butter, liver

IMG_0558
Trout liver – apple, brown butter

IMG_0560
Lobster roll – yeast, meringue

IMG_0562
Geoduck – lardo, air baguette

IMG_0565
Pig blood tart – tomato jam, black truffle

IMG_0568
Hushpuppy – smoked yolk, corn

IMG_0570
Beet jerky – crustacean cream

IMG_0571

IMG_0573
Smoked mussels – mussel jus, purple carrot

IMG_0576
Dumpling – chicken, shrimp

IMG_0580

IMG_0581
Turbot – curry oil pil

IMG_0582

IMG_0586
Roasted duck – soured rice, green tea

IMG_0589
Sherbet – cara cara, licorice caramel

IMG_0593

IMG_0594
Milk and crackers – preserved blueberries

IMG_0596

IMG_0601
Papua New Guinea – brioche, vanilla ice cream

IMG_0600

IMG_0604

IMG_0605

IMG_0606

IMG_0607

NYC – 1/15/15 – the Nomad Bar

Posted in New York by

Of course back at the Nomad bar yet agai!. I may be becoming predictable in NYC. Fantastic as always and for once I exhibited some self control and didn’t have the hot dog for dessert.

Evil Twin Nomader Weisse served w/ traditional syrups

IMG_0518
Bay scallops

IMG_0521
Broccoli rabe salad with anchovy & Parmesan

IMG_0524
Squash toast with ricotta, maitake & apple

IMG_0526
Brussels sprouts roasted with smoked lentils & Parmesan

IMG_0528
Burger

IMG_0530

NYC – 1/14/15 – Momofuku Ko

Posted in New York by

It had quite some time, actually way too long, since I visited the old Ko. So the memory may have faded slightly but it still feels like the new Ko is an entirely new restaurant – the more grown up and refined version of the original. The new space is industrial yet quite homey and I can’t wait to visit in summer when I hope the garage doors will be open. Service is much more friendly than I remember and the chefs a bit more chatty. Of course everything that we ate was fantastic and its difficult to pick favorites, but I am a sucker for soft scrambled eggs. Keep an eye on the reservations as we got lucky fairly last minute. And it didn’t photograph well, but I cannot fail to mention the very unique take-home menu presentation.

Aperitif – verjus, cappelletti, soda

IMG_0451
Apple soda

IMG_0446
Lobster paloise. Tartlet

IMG_0447
Vegetable roll

IMG_0453
Millefeuille

IMG_0455
Madal – green chile, shiso, consommé

IMG_0457
Razor clam – pineapple, basil

IMG_0459
Beet – brown butter, anchovy, furikake

IMG_0462
Venison – fermented black bean, Brussels sprouts

IMG_0464
Mackerel sabazushi – ginger, dashi ponzu

IMG_0466
Mushroom – scallop, asian pear

IMG_0469

IMG_0470
Soft scramble – potato, osetra, herbs. Bread and butter

IMG_0472

IMG_0473
Celery root – black truffle, tandoori

IMG_0474
Branzino – artichoke, sumac, yogurt

IMG_0478
Lobster – sweet potato, tonsure, sauce

IMG_0482
Foie gras – lychee, pine nut, riesling jelly

IMG_0486
Duck – lime pickle, watercress

IMG_0487

IMG_0488

IMG_0489
Clementine – campari

IMG_0494
Coconut – banana, rum

IMG_0496
Mignardises

IMG_0502

IMG_0503

IMG_0509-0

NYC – 1/10/14 – Chef’s Club Studio – Erik Anderson

Posted in New York by

I will admit that I don’t really get the concept of the Chef’s Club. When it was first announced I thought it would be more of a rotating pop-up concept. But it is actually a regular restaurant with a menu created by four visiting chefs (selected each year) but helmed by a different executive chef. I’m not sure that I would ever visit just for dinner but I was happy to see that others are supporting it and the dining room was quite full. But there is a separate ‘studio’ space where dinners are hosted when the visiting chefs are in residence and I was lucky enough to reserve a spot for one of Erik Anderson’s dinners. I have regretted not having made it to Catbird Seat while he was there so was thrilled to FINALLY be able to have his food. Expectations certainly exceeded.

The Puck – bourbon, bee pollen, pear, pepper (at the bar pre-dinner)

IMG_0388

IMG_0391

Maine diver scallops – raw & cooked

IMG_0389
Potato – creme fraiche, caviar

IMG_0390
Squab liver Bon-Bon

IMG_0425
White truffle porridge – Danish rye bread, goat butter, hickory nuts, tonka bean

IMG_0396
Tart – potato, black truffle

IMG_0398
Pike – onions, roasted chicken skin bouillon, preserved lemon

IMG_0400
Roasted pigeon – cranberry, juniper, chestnut, turnip, pine

IMG_0402
Hay custard – roasted sweet grass hay, fresh cream, barrel-aged maple syrup

IMG_0408
Burnt sugar and Rosemary pudding – buttermilk, pecan, sable

IMG_0414

IMG_0422

Wine Pairing
Raventos I Blanc ‘de nit’ Rose Cava 2012
Les Granges Paquenesses Cremant Du Jura Brut NV
Lanson ‘Black Label’ Champagne Brut NV
Domaine De La Pinte, ‘La Capitaine’ Arbois 2011
Charles Joguet ‘Cuvee Terroir’ Chinon 2012
Vinhos Barbeitos, Rare Wine Co. ‘Historic Series’ Savannah Verdehlo NV

NYC – 12/21/14 – Daniel

Posted in New York by

My first trip to Daniel since their loss of a star. I tried to find a reason for it compared to my previous visits and couldn’t. But so much is subjective. There was perhaps one dish that I didn’t feel was the most successful. But service was impeccable, perhaps better than ever. Again my downfall seems to be that with certain dining companions I can’t be bothered making notes or writing down dishes. I fear so much being the unsocial and rude diner on her phone the entire meal that I default as far away from this as possible. Someday I hope to find a balance.

2015/01/img_0277.jpg

2015/01/img_0278.jpg

2015/01/img_0279.jpg

2015/01/img_0280.jpg

2015/01/img_0281.jpg

2015/01/img_0282.jpg

2015/01/img_0283.jpg

2015/01/img_0284.jpg

2015/01/img_0285.jpg

2015/01/img_0286.jpg

2015/01/img_0288.jpg

2015/01/img_0289.jpg

2015/01/img_0290.jpg

2015/01/img_0291.jpg

2015/01/img_0292.jpg

NYC – 12/20/14 – Ai Fiori

Posted in New York by

It had been way too long since I visited Ai Fiori and it admittedly fell off of my radar until some friends from out of town recently dined there. A perfect choice for catching up with family who prefer a more formal setting and a dining room where you can actually hold a conversation. While the entire meal was fantastic, perhaps predictably it was the Tartufo Bianco Tagliatelle that was the stand out dish. As I have said before, minimal ingredients executed perfectly often tend to be the most memorable (plus I honestly could eat truffles on almost anything). I did have a lovely cheese plate for dessert but evidently was sidetracked by an extra dessert wine and forgot all about a picture. A big thank you to Colin and Edward for the incredible service!

Blessed Thistle – cardamaro, michter’s rye, lemon, egg white

2015/01/img_0271.jpg
Amuse

2015/01/img_0272.jpg
Crudo di Dentice – red snapper crudo, garlic crema, crispy shallots, trout roe

2015/01/img_0273.jpg
Tartufo Bianco Tagliatelle – pasta ribbons, butter, parmigiano (before and after)

2015/01/img_0274.jpg

2015/01/img_0275.jpg
Vitello – amish veal chop “au four,” new potatoes, prosciutto, sage

2015/01/img_0276.jpg

NYC -12/18/14 – Mu Ramen and the Happiest Hour

Posted in New York by

Mu Ramen
I haven’t put so much effort into a restaurant reservation in ages. 65 calls to get through. And while I don’t want to do it again anytime soon, it was sort of fun in an old school kind of way (and gave my co-workers a bit of entertainment). Notes: Wait until 4pm to call and yes they still take walk-ins.
As for the chicken wings, fried and foie? Yes please! Loved loved both ramens that we tried. Both completely different but equally fantastic. Looking forward to a return trip now that their liquor license has been granted!

2015/01/img_02931.jpg
Tebaski Gyoza – deep fried chicken wings stuffed with foie and brioche

2015/01/img_0266.jpg
Shishito peppers with lemon aioli

2015/01/img_0267.jpg
And the main event

2015/01/img_0268.jpg

2015/01/img_0269.jpg

The Happiest Hour
The happiest hour it was not. Upon entering we were met by a gentleman who demanded to take our coats without so much as a greeting. The space can become extremely crowded even on a weeknight and was so loud that it was difficult to hear my friend who was directly beside me. My cocktail was well made and quite good but after one I couldn’t tolerate the noise any longer. So we proceeded to the door, handed our coat check ticket to the gentleman standing there who disappeared for quite some time and then returned to ask us what our coats looked like. When he still couldn’t find them he started almost yelling at us to tell him what the person looked like who took our coats in the first place. So 15 minutes later, after we went to the coat room in the basement ourselves and still couldn’t find them, absolutely no apologies and we were essentially accused of giving our coats to somebody who didn’t work there. Long story short, it was the same guy who originally took our coats but was trying to cover his ass. Mix ups happen and if there would have been even a simple apology I wouldn’t be writing about this. But the attitude was so completely offensive and inhospitable as if it was somehow our fault that they misplaced our coats that we didn’t even want to check in the first place. If you must visit, wait until summer.
Fall From the Tree – bourbon, apple juice, cinnamon, lemon, aromatic bitters

2015/01/img_0270.jpg

NYC – 11/20/14 – Osteria Morini

Posted in New York by

There is no better way to begin dinner than to be asked if its ok if the chef just cooks for you. And its even better when you are presented with a large menu but are too involved in conversation to even look at it. For this reason I don’t have descriptions of a few dishes as they were off menu. For those I do know, in the spirit of the evening I’m not going to label them either. Sure I could have taken notes when the servers presented dishes, and perhaps that would have been the responsible thing to do in order to keep up with this blog. But for once it was lovely just to enjoy dinner and the company without such distractions.

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0134.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0136.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0137.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0140.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0141.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0142.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0143.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0145.jpg

NYC – 11/19/14 – Tuome

Posted in New York by

Yet another fantastic new addition to the east village. The unfortunate downside is that it is so far east that in the dead of winter it will require an enormous amount of willpower to make the trek. However thoughts of the Pig Out will lure me back. Yes the name may be a bit gimmicky, and I wish there was a portion for 1, but it was certainly delicious and lived up to my high expectations from the early reviews. Tuome somehow feels like a perfect fit for the east village yet too refined and complex for the location at the same time.

Amuse

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0109.jpg
Egg – deviled, crispy, chili

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0113.jpg
Oxtail – spring roll, bone marrow, cumin

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0115.jpg
Octopus – pork xo, brown butter, fingerling potato

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0119.jpg
Pig Out (for two) – Berkshire pork, spicy peanut noodle

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0122.jpg

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0125.jpg
Brussels sprouts – grape, pork xo, raisin

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/7fa/65901614/files/2014/12/img_0128.jpg

NYC – 11/16/14 – Root & Bone

Posted in New York by

I enjoyed Root & Bone so much for dinner that I had to return for brunch when it was finally added. The menu contains quite a few items from the dinner menu but there are some new ones as well. Be prepared for a lengthy wait despite how quickly they turn tables.

Marquee – gin, honeydew, lemon, sparkling wine & absinthe rinse
Applejack smash – applejack, maple syrup, muddled lemon, mint & peychaud’s bitters
IMG_0103.JPG
Drunken deviled eggs

IMG_0102.JPG
Rainbow beets & other roots salad – ricotta creme, citrus, tart apple, watercress & smokey candied pecans

IMG_0104.JPG
Bird – sweet tea brined, lemon dusted, spiked Tabasco honey

IMG_0105.JPG
Braised short rib meatloaf & eggs – parsnip root mash, slow poached eggs, horseradish, tomato ketchup jam

IMG_0106.JPG
Sticky toffee pudding

IMG_0107.JPG

NYC – 11/14/14 – Little Park

Posted in New York by

I try to shy away from visiting restaurants right after opening preferring that they work out the kinks on somebody other than me. And more often than not I’ve been burned when deviating from this rule. However I found myself in the neighborhood of Little Park during its opening week so decided I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. After admittedly being disappointed by Andrew Carmellini’s Lafayette I am happy to say that experience has been wiped from my memory. Everything we tried was delicious and some of the plating, such as the butternut squash, is much more refined than I was expecting. And the fall sundae is even better than it sounds. I will definitely be going back for that before the season is over.

Apple buck – James Oliver rye, Strega, lemon, red jacket orchards Apple cider, dandelion & burdock bitters, fever tree ginger beer

IMG_0060.JPG
Crispy Brussels sprouts – smoked parsnip, apple
IMG_0054.JPG
Endive – pear, walnut, sheep cheese

IMG_0056.JPG
Butternut squash – burrata, nasturtium

IMG_0063.JPG
Roasted sunchokes – hazelnut, black trumpet

IMG_0065.JPG
Whole wheat spaghetti – pork, cabbage

IMG_0068.JPG
Fall sundae of Apple & beer

IMG_0072.JPG

NYC – 11/13/14 – Push Project Part V – The Art of Masa w/ Rick Bayless

Posted in New York by

I have enjoyed every Push Project since Alex Stupak started them at Empellon Cocina. The basic idea is that every few months he will invite a guest chef to collaborate on a dinner that pushes them both outside of their boundaries. Unfortunately it has gotten much more difficult to score a reservation and sadly no preference seems to be given to past attendees. But luckily a friend had more success than I did and we finally made it off of the wait list. Rick Bayless is one my favorites and such an obvious choice for this series that I am surprised it didn’t happen earlier. I was slightly skeptical of a whole menu based on masa but I thoroughly enjoyed this entire dinner, perhaps most surprisingly the desserts. Although my favorite dish of the night might have been a component devoid of masa – the trout rillettes.
Being in November and a Chicago chef collaboration, I started reliving last year’s Thanksgiving Push Project with Chef Achatz. I tried to not make any comparisons as its not fair to compare two totally different experiences. But that was still hands down the best Push Project and now that a year has passed can I PLEASE have the recipe for the Kabocha Cornucopia?? And while I’m making requests how about a Tortas Frontera at EWR terminal C?

Heirloom masa crackers – smoked steelhead trout rillettes, trout roe guacamole
IMG_4306.JPG
Sand and Sea – fluke green ceviche (serrano, three herbs, two citrus), tortilla sand

IMG_4313.JPG
1491

IMG_4294.JPG
Enmoladas – tortillas enrobed in oaxacan green mole, steamed wild striped bass, white ayocote beans, chayote, herbs

IMG_4305.JPG
Mole Negro – roasted Elysian Fields lamb, oaxacan black mole (three chiles plus 28 other ingredients), camote mash, roasted eggplant, masa spaeztle

IMG_0097.JPG
Porridge – leftover tamales simmered in chicken broth, sherry vinaigrette, white truffles

IMG_0098.JPG
Guava Atole – guava-masa pudding cake, mexican guava, guava-atole ice cream, masa tuple

IMG_0099.JPG
Masa Sorbet – piloncillo, lychee crema, coffee

IMG_0101.JPG

NYC – 11/10/14 – Tertulia

Posted in New York by

Revisiting another old favorite that I haven’t been to in far too long. This winter I really need to make more of an effort to forego the new places. I’m happy to say it’s as good as I remember. The dishes missing descriptions were specials and as usual I regret that I didn’t make notes.

IMG_7908.JPG
Ensalada de Otono

IMG_7917.JPG
Huevos Diablo

IMG_4276.JPG
Lamb meatballs, almonds, migas, roasted tomatoes, sheep’s milk cheese

IMG_4280.JPG

IMG_4284.JPG

NYC – 11/9/14 – the Nomad Bar

Posted in New York by

Finally the Nomad Bar has started brunch and somehow I managed to be the first in the door for the inaugural Sunday. Of course starting Nomad cocktails at noon may not be the best idea, but we loved the menu additions and those we sampled were all fantastic. My only continuing complaint is that nothing on the dessert menu sounds better than having the hot dog as dessert.

Espresso martini – bitter chocolate infused cognac, cold brew coffee, creme de cacao, Kahlua
Bitches Brew – rye, cold brew coffee, zwack, mole bitters
IMG_7884.JPG
Bay Scallops – marinated with yuzu & pistachio (could eat these all day)

IMG_7885.JPG
Brussel sprouts – roasted with smoked lentils & Parmesan

IMG_7889.JPG
Baked eggs – chèvre & fall squash

IMG_7896.JPG
Short rib – hash, potatoes & duck egg

IMG_7892.JPG
Hot Toddy – scotch, Benedictine, peychauds bitters, spices

IMG_7894.JPG
Hot Buttered Rum – Venezuelan rum, compound butter, fall spices

IMG_7899.JPG
And for dessert because why not?
Hot dog – bacon wrapped with black truffle & celery

IMG_7898.JPG

NYC – 10/25/14 – Marta

Posted in New York by

I’m always excited to check out a new Danny Meyer place although in this case I was a bit skeptical as I am of all new pizza places. The food was all great, especially the pizza (and I dislike far more than I like). Unfortunately the service was dreadful. My pizza cooled while I waited 20+ minutes for my water glass to be refilled, and when I finally was able to get my servers attention to ask it took another 5 min for her to reappear. And of course I was never asked if I wanted another cocktail. I hope these were just opening kinks that will be quickly worked out.

La Certosa – green & yellow chartreuse, AMA Bionda Ale & lemon
IMG_7548.JPG
Polo – charred octopus, sun chokes, oranges, castelfranco

IMG_7550.JPG
Patate Alla Carbonara – potatoes, guanciale, black pepper, pecorino, egg

IMG_7555.JPG

NYC – 10/24/14 – Le Bernardin

Posted in New York by

How absolutely lovely to find myself just a few blocks from Le Bernardin with an hour lunch break. The prix fixe City Harvest lunch may be the best $45 you can spend in NYC. I am always surprised by how generous the portions are as they could easily get away with serving half of what they actually do. Unfortunately my lack of timely updates to this blog has finally caught up to me as I didn’t write down the dishes and the online version is long outdated. Regardless everything was as perfect as you always expect from Le Bernardin.
IMG_7531.JPG

IMG_7535.JPG

IMG_7540.JPG

NYC – 10/8/14 – Corkbuzz Chelsea Market

Posted in New York by

In many life matters I tell myself to have low expectations so that I won’t be disappointed. And sometimes when you have absolutely no expectations you are surprised and impressed the most. It has been far too long since I have been to the original Corkbuzz, where I know I have eaten, but somehow have no recollection of anything I’ve had. So when I finally got to the new location for a glass of wine and a snack before a show at the Highline Ballroom I made a few random menu selections thinking nothing of it. But such incredibly delicious plates I was so pleasantly surprised! Looking forward to many return trips.

Brussels sprouts
IMG_0014.jpg
Shaved vegetable salad (for the life of me I cannot remember everything that was in this)

IMG_0015.jpg
Delicata squash

IMG_0005.JPG
Cheese!

IMG_0007.JPG
Potato chips

IMG_0008.JPG
Whipped egg toast w/ bottarga

IMG_0011.JPG

NYC – 11/9/14 – Claudette

Posted in New York by

It is always nice to be very pleasantly surprised by a meal. I went into Claudette expecting only a very cute space, which it certainly delivers on, and a solid menu. It absolutely exceeded expectations and my only disappointment was that I had to skip dessert in order to get to a show on time. I’m looking forward to a return brunch visit as it is rare that I see a NYC brunch menu that interests me. Lastly, I LOVE the large doors that open to the sidewalk. This was one of my favorite things about Locanda Verde years ago and then several trips in a row in lovely weather the doors were closed and so I stopped going back.

Brigitte – chartreuse, noilly prat vermouth, cucumber
IMG_6473.JPG

Spring peas & radish – ras el hanout vinaigrette

IMG_6474.JPG

Fennel salad – almond, dried apricot, tarragon

IMG_6476.JPG

Cockles – cuttlefish, couscous, cauliflower, red jalapeño

IMG_6479.JPG

Corsican mint salad – arugula, hearts of palm, green beans, quinoa

IMG_6481.JPG

Chicken tagine – Swiss chard, bulgar, almond, orange, Harissa

IMG_6485.JPG

NYC – 8/23/14 – Champagne Charlie’s, Lobby Bar @ Ludlow Hotel

Posted in New York by

Champagne Charlie’s
Summer is nearly over and I still have a long list of patios and roofdecks to visit. Unfortunately this wasn’t such a great choice to make it to the top of my to-do list. I really hate to be so negative but I can’t remember the last time that I wanted to get up and leave anywhere before ordering. In the 10+ minutes that it took our server to appear I became overwhelmingly annoyed with the drink menu. I don’t even blink at paying quite a lot for drinks but when anything is just outrageously marked-up I am left feeling like I am being taken advantage of. Added to this were the grating voices of the large group beside us who seemed thrilled with the many bottles of overpriced sparkling wine that they were consuming. At least the space was adorable and the food decent (well aside from the absurdly tiny portions of crostini).

Duck rillette
IMG_6346.JPG

Burrata, cherry tomatoes, micro basil
IMG_6344.JPG

Baby beet salad, horseradish, creme fraiche, pumpkin seeds, arugula

IMG_6343.JPG

Lobby Bar @ Ludlow Hotel
At least for the next few days until the Torrisi boys’ Dirty French opens, this is a hidden gem. For most of the evening we were the only people in the courtyard. There is indeed a first time for everything (and probably a last as well).

IMG_6342.JPG

IMG_6357.JPG

IMG_6352.JPG

Lilikoi – cognac and Jamaican rum, passion fruit, house falernum, lime, bitters
Chai matsuda – chai-bourbon, americano, cardamom, orange bitters
Ludlow gimlet – Plymouth and navy strength gins, cinnamon, creme de abricot, fresh lime

IMG_6360.JPG

Pigalle – bourbon, ancho chile, bitter apertif, fresh orange and lemon juices
Belmondo – blanco tequila, pear eau de vie, ginger, gentian, fresh lemon

IMG_6362.JPG

NYC – 8/17/14 – Ivan Ramen

Posted in New York by

I almost forget to do this update from last week but luckily a co-worker mentioned ramen today and a lightbulb went off. I’ve been looking forward to Ivan Ramen opening since Ivan’s dinner during the NYC Food & Wine festival last year. At least the Slurp Shop in Gotham West was there to tide me over for a few months, but it’s great to now have the full menu. Get there before summer is over for the cute back patio!

Chinese broccoli & garlic – sweet soy pickled garlic love sauce
IMG_5586.JPG

Pickled daikon XO – shaved daikon, dried shrimp & scallop chili oil

IMG_5591.JPG

Roast pork Musubi – salted plum wasabi, roast tomato, toasted nori

IMG_5592.JPG

Triple pork triple garlic mazemen

IMG_5596.JPG

Spicy red chili ramen

IMG_5597.JPG

NYC – 8/22/14 – Betony

Posted in New York by

Betony has been on my to-do list since it opened and I have stopped for drinks and appetizers but not a proper dinner. Sometimes you just need a push from friends from out-of-town.

IMG_6291.JPG

IMG_6297.JPG

Fried pickles, wax beans, gribiche

IMG_6298.JPG

Foie gras bonbons, cashew, black pepper

IMG_6302.JPG

Zucchini, gruyere, mint

IMG_6303.JPG

Pig’s head terrine, mustard, salsa verde

IMG_6311.JPG</

Sweet corn agnolotti, summer truffle, cotija cheese

IMG_6313.JPG

Grain salad, labne, sprouts

IMG_6314.JPG

Grilled short rib, frisée, lovage

IMG_6316.JPG

Seared halibut, golden beets, currants

IMG_6317.JPG

Roasted chicken, chanterelles, peaches

IMG_6321.JPG

Roasted lamb, eggplant, black vinegar

IMG_6324.JPG

Italian hot chocolate

IMG_6328.JPG

Peach, lavender, oats

IMG_6330-0.JPG

Sweet corn, blueberry, basil

IMG_6332.JPG

NYC – 8/11/14 – Root & Bone and Morgenstern’s Ice Cream

Posted in New York by

Root & Bone

The first time I tried to visit Root & Bone unfortunately the basement was flooding. But Chef Janine Booth was so sweet that I couldn’t hold it against them. The space is certainly tiny and in winter, without the windows open, it may feel even more so. But the decor is adorable. On the tables is mismatched china and at the seat next to me a pattern I recognized from many holiday dinners. The food was all delicious and there were enough other things on the menu that I wanted to try that a repeat visit is necessary. Unfortunately the food came out much too quickly. If you aren’t even going to attempt to course out my dinner and space it appropriately, then you should have tables large enough to accommodate everything I’ve ordered. There is nothing worse than feeling rushed to finish a dish otherwise you will be holding on your lap the next thing they bring out.

IMG_6194.JPG

The twisted mustache – Russels 6yr bourbon, Swedish putsch, citrus, ginger

IMG_6192.JPG

Drunken deviled eggs

IMG_6196.JPG

Southern peach caprese – fried pimento cheese, grilled peaches, pickled green tomato, heirloom tomatoes, sticky molasses vinegar, basil

IMG_6198.JPG

Half bird – sweet tea brined, pickled lemon dusted, spiked tabasco honey

IMG_5525.JPG

Braised short rib meatloaf – parsnip root mash, tomato ketchup jam, charred spring onions

IMG_5529.JPG

Succotash

IMG_5528.JPG

And a great idea for a bill presentation that I haven’t seen before.

IMG_5530.JPG

Morgenstern’s

Fernet and ice cream. Is there really anything else that needs to be said?

IMG_5533.JPG

NYC – 8/3/14 – Mission Chinese Pop-up @ Mile End Deli

Posted in New York by

So happy to be reunited with Mission Chinese. Yes I could have had it weeks ago at the Brooklyn pop-up. But I will be honest, it takes a lot to get me to Brooklyn. And at $40 this meal was a complete steal by NY standards.
20140803-221539-80139518.jpg

20140803-221630-80190702.jpg

20140803-221746-80266189.jpg

20140803-221745-80265456.jpg

20140803-221812-80292927.jpg

Chong Qing chicken wings

20140803-221911-80351834.jpg

Market tomatoes, fennel, black vinegar, lentils

20140803-222028-80428344.jpg

Koji fermented cucumbers

20140803-222101-80461540.jpg

Red cabbage salad, sesame anchovy dressing, puffed buckwheat

20140803-222157-80517457.jpg

No idea what these noodles were called. #notonmenu

20140803-222333-80613950.jpg

Mapo tofu, braised pork jowl, Sichuan pepper

20140803-222456-80696112.jpg

Hainanese sausage rice, ginger scallion, peanuts, lettuce, pork fat vinaigrette

20140803-222614-80774656.jpg

Bacon and rice cakes

20140803-222726-80846032.jpg

Beef brisket & Chinese broccoli

20140803-222810-80890820.jpg

NYC – 8/2/14 – La Birreria

Posted in New York by

While NY certainly has a great number of roof decks, this remains one of my favorites. Fantastic views of the Flatiron and Woolworth Buildings, consistent food, no bottle service, no models, great beers, and is not overpriced!

Panzanella
20140803-214846-78526030.jpg

Formaggi
20140803-214923-78563455.jpg

Cotechino

20140803-215029-78629314.jpg

Romano bean salad

20140803-215106-78666492.jpg

Portobello alla grigila with whipped goat cheese, beets & Saba

20140803-215225-78745653.jpg

Tiramisu

20140803-215248-78768955.jpg

NYC – 7/29/14 – the Nomad Bar

Posted in New York by

I know I can’t keep writing about the same places but this has quickly turned into one of my favorite spots. Perhaps because of the convenient location, perhaps because it’s hard to find this quality of food, drinks and service in one location in NYC. Or maybe it’s because I could eat the hot dog everyday (even though I have never had any previous interest in hot dogs).

I admit I do not get the fuss over the Canlis salad (on the menu for 2 weeks originating from Canlis in Seattle). It was tasty and perfectly executed and I can appreciate the nostalgia of a classic, but still……

Jungle Bird (not the reserve one!) and Forbidden Dance
20140729-225742-82662928.jpg

Scotch olives – lamb sausage & sheep’s milk cheese

20140729-225950-82790031.jpg

Tuna tartare – pine nuts, apple & mint

20140729-230124-82884715.jpg

Hair Trigger – Venezuelan rum, fernet, ginger, lime, cucumber

20140729-230515-83115747.jpg

The Shaman – pisco acholado, salers, pineapple, lemon, cinnamon, angostura

20140729-230630-83190779.jpg

Canlis Salad – romaine, bacon, mint, oregano & Romano cheese, dressed with lemon, olive oil & coddled egg

20140729-230756-83276508.jpg

Bay scallops – marinated with yuzu & pistachio

20140729-230900-83340744.jpg

Burger – dry aged with cheddar, red onion & pickles

20140729-231024-83424405.jpg

Charlie Watts – aged rhum agricole, Guyanese rum, Batavia arrack, black pepper, apricot, lemon, pineapple

20140729-231211-83531357.jpg

NYC – 7/21/14 – Empellon Taqueria

Posted in New York by

When I’m traveling I seem to get asked a lot what my favorite New York restaurants are. Inevitably I struggle to answer because with an endless stream of new places opening there is often never time to re-visit those that I really like. But I really do have favorites and this is certainly one. I’ve been a huge fan of Empellon Taqueria since it opened and everything Alex Stupak has done since. I had been wanting to get to the monthly taco tastings for a while but it just never worked out. So glad I finally did. Loved them all but the crushed fava bean was definitely my favorite! The lighting is not photo friendly though.

Guacamole (2nd in NYC only to that at Empellon Cocina)
20140727-220750-79670158.jpg

Crushed fava beans, charred pole bean

20140727-220925-79765833.jpg

Smoked salmon, cucumber, toasted almond, purslane, mezcal

20140727-221135-79895551.jpg

Eggplant, sun gold and gooseberry salsa, papalo, chipotle mayo

20140727-221343-80023442.jpg

Lamb’s quarters, rabbit, avocado green goddess dressing

20140727-221521-80121982.jpg

Broccoli and huanzontles, pimento cheese, chicken chicharrones

20140727-221705-80225295.jpg

Duck ‘Moo Shu’, sour plum salsa, celtuce

20140727-223124-81084970.jpg

NYC – 7/13/14 – Cherche Midi

Posted in New York by

Today’s lesson – always have a back-up plan. We intended to have dinner at Root & Bone but when I arrived a few minutes before opening they were in the midst of a basement plumbing crisis and dumping buckets and buckets of water into the street. Consequently no walk-ins. Janine Booth couldn’t have been more lovely and I will try again soon. On to Cerche Midi. It was a more appropriate pre-Bastille Day spot anyway! Overall solid, not earth shattering, but what I expect from Keith McNally.

Julia’s Blush – Campari, Citadelle gin, lemon juice, agave
20140713-225852-82732908.jpg

Octopus terrine

20140713-225945-82785481.jpg

Hamachi crudo w/ Yusuf, radish and shiso

20140713-230118-82878191.jpg

Steak frites w/ Maître D’ butter

20140713-230210-82930858.jpg

Pan Seared Salmon w/ lentils, cumin scented yogurt and greens

20140713-230256-82976800.jpg

Roasted cauliflower w/ sauce gribiche

20140713-230342-83022364.jpg

Lemon Tart and sherbet

20140713-230537-83137246.jpg

Walnut cake w/ yogurt ice cream

20140713-230621-83181230.jpg