The Gotham Palate — Carolyn Onofrey

Galli brings new meaning to brunch

April 29, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

Galli
45 Mercer Street
SoHo
212.966.9288/gallirestaurant.com

Grapefruit @ Galli

If you close your eyes you can almost imagine yourself in the swank SoHo apartment you don’t have – a wide open space with 20 foot floor to ceiling windows, bathed in the morning sun as you sit at your breakfast table leisurely sipping a cappuccino and enjoying a croissant… At least that’s what I envisioned when I was delivered my cappuccino and croissant at Galli – a restaurant who prides itself on a neighborhood atmosphere serving Italian comfort food.

Galli launched its Buon Giorno menu this year, just in time for the first glimpse of Spring. A light cafe style menu comprised mostly of fruit, yogurt, and pastries. As I sat enjoying the simplicity of my half grapefruit sprinkled with raw sugar, I looked around the dining room to see only a few tables occupied – those who did have people at them were couples with young babies. Although I had admittedly never put much thought into where a young couple with a new baby went if they wanted to treat themselves to brunch, I was happy to see that it was at Galli. A type of safe haven – a family place accented by photographs from the owners’, Steve Gallo (Brio Downtown) and Michael Forrest, own family albums.

House-made granola with Greek yogurt and berries @ Galli

Breakfast continued with fresh berries, Greek yogurt, and granola – a light and healthy way to start the day. Bistro tables at the front of the restaurant near the bar are the perfect place to enjoy the homemade granola and the people watching of Mercer Street – the back dining room; the perfect place to hide out and soak up the sun streaming in from the skylights.
I often seek out neighborhood type places where I can enjoy breakfast without being rushed and leave not feeling like I just consumed my body weight in bacon and eggs or indulged in the all-you-can-drink brunch, which seems to run so rampant these days, leaving nothing of my Sunday but a sleepy lump on the couch. After Galli, I am ready to take on the city – run those errands I have been meaning to run for the past three weeks or take a long walk to enjoy the beauty of the city at the first signs of spring.

Filed Under: Brunch, Featured, Italian, Reviews, Soho Tagged With: Brunch in NYC, Brunch in Soho, Carolyn Onofrey, Galli, NYC, Where to brunch in Soho

What’s On… Clinton Street? (Between Stanton and Rivington)

April 19, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

What’s On… Clinton Street? (Between Stanton and Rivington)

Lower East Side

Clinton Street’s way east address is deterrent for some, making the gentrification factor slightly less than other parts of the LES, but those who do venture to Clinton Street are pleasantly surprised to find a long a varied strip of food and nightlife destinations. However, it wasn’t long ago that the Lower East Side’s underbelly called Clinton home. It wasn’t until 1999 when Wylie Dufresne helped to put 71 Clinton on the map that things started to turn around. Clinton Street’s not so recent past also warrants a tour. It was on Clinton Street that Fredericka “Marm” Mandelbaum’s original storefront stood. From here, Mandelbaum saw millions of dollars worth of stolen goods pass through in the mid 19th century. She also ran a school for aspiring pickpockets and robbers which is said to have been right next door to a police precinct.

35 Clinton Street – Donnybrook

This Irish pub seated at the corner of Clinton and Stanton can usually be caught under maximum capacity (which is more to say than for most bars in the LES) bringing those who like a casual drink with good friends back time and time again. A 12 – 15 dollar brunch special serves its purpose in a ‘hair of the dog’ sort of way.

37 Clinton Street – Atlas Cafe

The H & H bagels served at Atlas Cafe make it a worthwhile stop if you’re in the area around breakfast time. Other menu offerings include quiches and paninis with a variety of vegetarian offerings. Coffee suffices and free WiFi is another selling point for most.

58 Clinton Street – Temple of Ankh

Most agree that Temple of Ankh is nothing to get excited about – but really, what hookah bar lives up to the hype anyway? Food, service, and decor-wise it’s pretty much unanimous that this place lives up to the standard of other so-so hookah places although the milk and Sprite hookah varieties do add some unconventional fun to the mix.

50 Clinton Street – wd~50

Wylie Dufresne’s acclaimed restaurant wd~50 celebrates 10 years this year. In case you haven’t heard – WD~50’s Wylie Dufresne is somewhat of a mad scientist when it comes to your dinner plate. Molecular gastronomy paired with precision and attention to detail make for a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. To celebrate WD~50’s 10th anniversary, try a tasting menu from some of the past 10 years’ best dishes!

63 Clinton Street – Fatta Cuckoo

The seasonal menu at Fatta Cuckoo is all about coming together to have a good time over good food. Comfort food focused items like fried chicken or their signature key lime pie comprise the menu and an enticing cocktail selection rounds out the scene. The “drunch” brunch special is what keeps most people coming back – at $25 for 3 quality cocktails and an entree, who can complain? – Even when you’re sitting on top of your next door neighbor.

63 Clinton Street – Cube Sushi

The BYO status of Cube 63 has regulars coming back for a boozy good time before a night on the town, but can’t seem to keep new clientele looking for satisfying sushi due to its lack of fresh ingredients. Try to stay away if you’re not looking to lose your lunch.

67 Clinton Street – Barramundi

The always crowded, kitschy bar who once called Ludlow home is now tucked away on Clinton waiting to be rediscovered. You’ll want to try their sangria and stay for their house infused vodkas. A 2 for 1 happy hour every night until 8 sweetens the deal. Through a door in the back lies a secret upstairs for a more refined crowd than downstairs…

67 Clinton Street (Upstairs) – 2nd Floor on Clinton

A quiet library setting for no more than groups for 4 awaits up the stairs from energetic Barramundi. Sip artfully crafted cocktails and enjoy artisan chocolate truffles by Roni – Sue. Ring the bell next to the door marked ‘private’ to be escorted upstairs to this haven of sorts nestled deep in the Lower East Side.

*2nd Floor on Clinton is only open Wednesday – Saturday.

68 Clinton Street – Pig and Khao

Leah Cohen of Top Chef fame and the Fatty crew have teamed up to create Pig and Khao – a modern take on Southeast Asian cooking. Stop by for classic Filipino favorites like sizzling sisig (pig head) or a tasty Thai red curry. This gem isn’t quite on the radar yet, so stop by while the waits are short!

*The $1 beer happy hour is one of the best deals in the city.

69 Clinton Street – Prosperity Dumpling

Another one of the best deals in the city – Prosperity’s pork and chive dumplings come 4 for $1 at this LES location (5/$1 at their Eldridge St. locale). What this place lacks in decor and service, the dumplings more than make up for in value and flavor. Stop out of your way for these things, you’ll be glad you did.

71 Clinton Street – Izakaya DoDomPa

This Japanese pub is exactly what the doctor ordered in this part of town. Quality izakaya at fair prices make DoDomPa a great stop if you’re looking to fill your belly and have a few drinks with friends before a night on the town. Their Nagoya chicken wings are stand out and fans say they are just happy they can travel somewhere other than St. Marks to enjoy the food and atmosphere of quality Izakaya.

71 Clinton Street – San Marzano

The $40 all you can eat and drink special is what has rowdy groups coming back for time and time again, but it’s the pizza with namesake San Marzano tomatoes that keeps us coming back.

Go at an off time and enjoy the regular menu with regular people (read: not drunk and angry) or stop by on the weekend until 2am for an always satisfying slice.

72 Clinton Street – Cibao

You won’t stop by Cibao for its decor or service, but instead to sit down to a good, hearty meal rounded out with rice, beans, and tostones. It’s a Dominican diner, unglorified and unapologetic and doing its thing for decades. If tripe is your thing – don’t miss out on their Mondongo.

*Planning a party? Cibao also caters.

Filed Under: Featured, Food Trends, Informational, lower east side, Lower-East side, Neighborhood News, Reviews, Round-up Reviews Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, NYC, NYC Food and Neighborhoods, NYC streets and their eateries, The Gotham Palate, What's On Clinton St, What's On Column

A Catfish Grows in Brooklyn – Review of Catfish

March 18, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

Inside Catfish – Photo courtesy of Catfish.

Catfish
1433 Bedford Ave
Crown Heights, Brooklyn
347-305-3233 /catfishnyc.com/

On an underdeveloped stretch of Bedford Ave. in Crown Heights, one that I’m sure won’t stay that way for long due to the rapidly evolving Brooklyn landscape, Catfish opens its doors daily for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner of the New Orleans persuasion. Fair prices ensure a neighborhood vibe drawing neighborhood people. Catfish is a place to linger at the bar on a lazy Sunday or a place for brunch with a friend; a place where it’s easy to become a “regular”. In the summer, a breezy front entrance and a comfortable garden out back will be the perfect places to soak up the sun, enjoy a beer, and nosh on some oysters or clams on the half shell.

Owners, Maxx Colson, Aaron Giroux, and Luke Wheeler could very well be mistaken for members of your local rock band – the kind that girls swoon over- but instead met while working at a DUMBO gastropub together. They’re young, hungry, and ready to do whatever it takes to make Catfish all that it can be.

While working a limited menu for the first few months, Catfish now offers a full menu with all your bayou favorites. Po’ boys, Jambalaya, and gumbo stand front and center with a New Orleans style cornbread (served with cinnamon butter) that can’t be missed. A conservatively priced whiskey and scotch list as well as a thoughtful draft and bottled beer selection round out the menu and ensure that you’ll stick around for more than one drink.

I hope Catfish will appeal to both the new residents of Crown Heights as well as the old. A place where differences will melt away with shots of rye whiskey in the name of a good ‘ole fashion, good time.

Filed Under: Brooklyn, Crown Heights, Cuisines, Featured, Reviews Tagged With: Aaron Giroux, Brooklyn, Cajun Food, Cajun Food in Brooklyn, Cajun Food in NYC, Carolyn Onofrey, Catfish, Catfish Restaurant in Brooklyn, Luke Wheeler, Maxx Colson, NY, NYC, Where to eat in Crown Heights

Tennessee Whiskey for Lovers – Raising the Bar

March 6, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

So George Dickel is trying to break into the New York market? I think it’s about time another Tennessee whiskey rode into town.

Literally “Raising” the bar @ Dickel’s SoHo Party

George Dickel Tennessee Whiskey hosted a party last week in SoHo for the top mixologists in town touting their new offerings as well as showing off their tried and true recipes. Their new campaign ‘Raising the Bar’, does just that. It raises the bar, not necessarily on Tennessee whiskey itself, but on what most people know Tennessee whiskey to be; an already syrupy liquor best served mixed with cola. Dickel’s repertoire of four varieties provides a crisp, small batch take on Tennessee whiskey it’s George Dickel Rye, the newest member of the family.

The whiskey was surprisingly versatile with featured cocktails from some of NYC’s best ranging from a mojito-like ‘shake’ by Giuseppe Gonzales (Golden Cadillac) to a vibrant punch from Julie Reiner of Clover Club and even a twist on the Sherry Twist no. 2 from TJ Lynch (Mother’s Ruin). While each was decidedly inspired by the subject matter, Dickel’s products run the gamut from smooth and aged to earthy and spicy – all while remaining true to strict Tennessee Whiskey guidelines.

What sets Dickel apart?

Each batch of Dickel whiskey is chilled to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, double distilled, and filtered through a charcoal mellowing process before aging making each batch of Dickel the same as the last. With only a handful of people working at the facility, Dickel prides itself on being a small batch, hand-crafted distillery producing only a tenth of its capacity last year. John Lunn, master distiller for Dickel is only the 3 third set of hands Dickel has run through since its rebirth in 1958 ensuring that Dickel stays true to its roots.

Frozen Mint “Shake” – Photo courtesy of George Dickel Whiskey

Frozen Mint “Shake” – Giuseppe Gonzales

• 1.3 oz. Dickel 12

• .75 oz. Lime

• 1 oz. simple

• Mint leaves.

• 1 Dash of angostura bitters

Blend until texture is thick. Pour into baby coupes. Garnish with mint sprigs. Serve with Long straw.

Glass: Coupe

Garnish: Mint sprigs

Tennessee Rose Punch – Julie Reiner

• 18 oz. lemon juice

• 6 oz. ginger syrup

• 12 ounces raspberry syrup

• 1 – 750ml bottle Dickel Rye

• 6 oz. Amaro Nonino

• 24 oz. Ruby Slipper tea (Serendipitea makes this)

• 18 oz club soda

Large block of ice

Tennessee Rose Punch – Photo courtesy George Dickel Whiskey

The Classy Mother – TJ Lynch

• 1.25 oz. Dickel Rye

• .50 oz. Gutierrez Colosia Oloroso Dry Sherry

• .25 oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao

• 2 dashes Regans orange bitters

• 2 dashes chocolate bitters

Stirred and served up

Flamed orange peel and Luxardo cherry garnish

Filed Under: American, Cocktails, Featured, Food Events, Informational, Recipe, Soho Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, Frozen Mint Shake Recipe, George Dickel Tennessee Whiskey, Giuseppe Gonzales, Julie Reiner, Tennessee Rose Punch

A chef in your kitchen: Review of Chefday

February 15, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

Claiming you “can’t” cook is no longer an excuse with Chefday – The new meal in a bag that makes it easy (and fun!) for any novice turn out gourmet meals.
Chefday delivers fresh, quality ingredients, pre measured in sustainable packaging right to your doorstep, anywhere in New York City. Choose from a variety of meals, such as Scallop Risotto or Parmesan Veal Milanese, all curated by top chefs and accompanied with a how to video, the chef holding your hand each step of the way!

My particular Chefday experience was a great one. As I rushed to open the enticing brown paper bag, I found a welcome note complete with my name printed on it and a thorough instruction list. Each ingredient – right down to the salt, pepper, and olive oil was pre-measured and labeled, ready for me to conquer. As I followed each step, simply uncapping each ingredient and giving a quick swoop of the knife here and there I couldn’t help but feel like I was on my very own cooking show – a fantasy once played out in my mother’s kitchen, dirtying every ramekin in the house with “pre-measured” ingredients while making some sort of “chocolate loaf” (lots of cocoa powder, flour, and water), ending in a toaster-oven baked goo that my mother has yet to let me live down. Thankfully, my scallop risotto turned out better than my chocolate loaf.

What made the Chefday experience so special to me was not so much the finished product (although it was quite delicious), but the thoughtfulness that went into each piece of the package. From the personal delivery, to the personalized note, to each labeled ingredient and even the pretty commentator who eased the instructional video along in what could have otherwise been a painful display because as we know – some chefs can be men and women of very few words.

Founders Julien Nakache, Laurent Moisi, and Vincent Marger are committed to providing a quality product with a conscience. From the ingredients and the environmentally friendly packaging to the one for one donation to the New York City Food Bank, this is a product you can feel good about using while treating yourself at the same time.

Whether you are a closet wannabe cooking show host (like me) or simply want to impress your date or friends with a nice meal, at about $35 per two person serving there is no reason not to indulge in this great new product.

Filed Under: Featured, Informational, Products, Worthy Causes Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, Chefday, Great gift ideas for foodies, Julien Nakache, Laurent Moisi, Review of Chefday, Vincent Marger

What’s On… 44th Street? (Between 8th and 9th Avenue)

January 25, 2013 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

What’s On… 44th Street? (Between 8th and 9th Avenue)Try to ignore the proximity to the Theater District, Times Square, and Guy’s American Kitchen and Bar.

44th Street between 8th and 9th is just off the beaten path enough to have some good dining and drink options along with a rich history in the film and recording industry. This block was once home to offices of 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, and Record Plant – the recording studio that revolutionized the recording industry, where Jimi Hendrix recorded Electric Ladyland and where John Lennon recorded “Walking On Thin Ice” the day he was shot and killed.

701 8th Avenue (@ 44th Street) – Smith’s Bar

Open from 7 am to 4 am every day (why even close?), Smith’s Bar is a staple in on the 8th Avenue landscape and we hope it will remain that way. Locals and theater-goers alike frequent Smith’s for a good time, every time. Live music Wednesday through Saturday adds to the appeal, but a word to the wise: stick to the booze here.

310 W 44th Street – Ça Va
Todd English serves the Theater District well at Ça Va, a French brasserie serving as the restaurant for the InterContinental Hotel, meaning so-so hotel decor and 3 meals a day.The dinner pre fixe is your best bet and a great way to try out some of the more interesting menu options for the more adventurous diner. Don’t expect accommodating service – it seems the staff is happier daydreaming about that standing ovation they’re hoping for after their next stint on Broadway.

315 W 44th Street – Birdland.

Although not the original location, Birdland on 44th Street still gets it right after 63 years proving that it doesn’t matter what street the doors open onto, Birdland will always be the premier spot for all things jazz. There’s not a bad seat in the house, so grab a seat and enjoy the southern inspired menu while listening to some cool jazz.

W 44th Street – Gyu-Kaku
This Japanese BBQ Chain gets two thumbs up for reasonable pricing and a run place to take the kids. A menu geared toward the American taste bud
is what has made this place such a success around the country (know your audience, right?) along with the experience of grilling your own food right at the table. It’s not authentic, but who cares? You’ll have a great time with nearly anyone you bring of any age (except maybe the food snob in your life).

321 W 44th Street – New York Beer Company
This pretty massive bar near Times Square features fluctuating beer prices featured on a ticker board. Prices go up with popularity,
but it seems like even the least popular selections are selling for more than we’d like to pay for. Most try to ignore the gimmicky theme and agree that this is actually a decent neighborhood hangout, if Times Square is your ‘hood. *Come early and snag the table with its own tap.

339 W 44th Street – Smokey Burger
This recently opened burger shop sports organic burgers piled high with organic toppings. Options range from beef to ostrich and lamb, but with average prices hitting the $17 mark before even a side of fries some are looking around at the fast casual setting waiting for even the tiniest slice of truffle or hint of foie gras to justify the prices.

339 W 44th Street – One Thai Chef
It would seem that the above restaurant and One Thai Chef share more than an address – what does the same owner mean for these two new restaurants? Only time will tell; but my advice is that they both lower their prices – stat.

352 W 44th Street – Etcetera Etcetera
Etcetera Etcetera stands a bit apart from the other mundane pre-theater options in the area with a neighborhood feel despite its proximity to Broadway and the Theater District.
The menu reads to please – something for every taste with standard Italian favorites at reasonable prices. The pasta will satisfy every time, but most locals suggest leaving this place to the out of town crowd.

Harley’s

356 W 44th Street – Harley’s (f.k.a. The Irish Rouge)
The second of two locations for Harley’s (the original located in East Harlem), this newly opened BBQ haunt features a surprisingly large menu of cheap-o BBQ. A $14 dollar brunch special including two drinks might just be the best deal on the block!

357 W 44th Street – Reunion Surf Bar
Don’t miss the understated entrance of Reunion Surf bar on 44th St. This bar, named after a tiny volcanic island off the coast of Africa which happens
to be a prime locale for catching serious waves, serves surf inspired cuisine (think Hawaiian surf shack) that would satisfy any hungry dude or dudette. Some complain that this place isn’t what it used to be, now that the shubees have taken over.

358 W 44th Street – Don Giovanni
Ok, so it’s not the best you’ve ever had but you’ll find something for everyone at this red sauce Italian serving all the basics including pizzas and heroes.
Geared toward the out of town crowd due to its proximity to Times Square, it might just work if you don’t know what you’re missing elsewhere.

358 W 44th Street (Upstairs) – The Producers Club
This storefront rental space for off-Broadway productions features 5 theaters and a downstairs bar/lounge area. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of shows from Shakespeare to comedy to the Avant Garde. The digs could use some updating, but most agree it just adds to the charm.

630 9th Avenue (@ 44th Street) – Marseille
Around since 2001 Marseille has been supplying Hells Kitchen with dependable French fare with an emphasis on the cuisine of its namesake port city.
Brunch is the standout, especially during the summer to take advantage of the prime 9th avenue people watching. Executive chef and partner Andy D’Amico
seems to have taken over the block (of 9th Avenue) with restaurant openings at every store front. (See: Nizza and Five Napkin Burger).

Filed Under: Featured, Neighborhood News, Restaurant News, Round-up Reviews, Theater District, Uncategorized Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, Food and Neighborhoods, Midtown Restaurants, Neighborhood and Food Columns, Neighborhoods and Restaurants, NYC, What's On W. 44th St. NYC, What's On...44St. Manhattan

What’s On… 2nd Avenue? (between 77th and 78th Street)

November 30, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

What’s On… 2nd Avenue? (between 77th and 78th Street)
Yorkville, Upper East Side

2nd Avenue gets a bad rap these days, with construction of the 2nd Ave subway underway those who don’t live up in Yorkville would rather stay away. Keep the small businesses alive in their time of need and make the trek, there are still some great food finds to be visited. While you’re in Yorkville, stay a while – visit the beautiful Gracie Mansion for a tour or relax in Carl Schurz Park, overlooking the Hell Gate section of the East River.

1481 2nd Avenue – Lenny’s
This NYC lunch chain serves a wide variety of sandwiches for any taste, making Lenny’s a solid choice for a workweek lunch. Be prepared for a wait during busy lunch hours, and keep an eye on whomever’s making your sandwich – with so many options they’re bound to make a mistake on yours.

1483 2nd Avenue – Vero
This wine and Panini bar is best known around the neighborhood for their Monday special featuring a free Panini with purchase of a drink, but the other menu selections are solid choices for any other day of the week. Be sure to try a glass of one of their specialty sangrias – they’re not only delicious, but may help you stomach the vivacious (read: loud) atmosphere inside the tiny space.
*If you like this uptown location but the trek is a bit much – try their Midtown location at 2nd Ave and 53rd Street

1484 2nd Avenue – Al Forno Pizzeria
Pizza is the way to go at this family friendly Italian. Although gourmet pies aren’t what they’re after, Al Forno serves a solid pie cooked in the brick oven on premise. The friendly, neighborhood atmosphere paired with reliable pizza is what gives this place 2 thumbs up with the locals – and that’s all that really matters for business!

1485 2nd Avenue - Brother Jimmy’s
It’s “Bro J’s”, fondly to the regulars who pack the place most nights, but don’t expect much class at this UES location of NYC BBQ chain Brother Jimmy’s where the liquor runs freely until you get kicked out cause you’re causing a scene. The food will do in a pinch, but it’s not the food that brings most back for a rowdy good time.

1486 2nd Avenue – Uva
Uva is the perfect first date spot if you’re looking to romance your date over fine Italian wine and food. Most menu items pay homage to the motherland (Italy, of course), using either homemade or imported direct from the source ingredients. The bruschetta is a can’t miss, just don’t get caught sharing a plate with someone other than the date you took to Uva last week!

Pastrami on Rye at Sable’s

1489 2nd Avenue – Sable’s
It’s all about the smoked fish at Sable’s. You can’t go wrong with the smoked salmon, or the lobster salad, a sweeter version than found on your classic lobster roll. Pricing beats the competition from the Upper West Side or the Lower East Side, so most find the trek up to Sable’s worth every stop on the 6 train.

1490 2nd Avenue – Doc Watson’s
Head to Doc Watson’s for brunch or to catch a weekend afternoon game. Burgers or eggs benedict are always a safe bet here; otherwise it’s just standard pub fare. The evening crowd can get a little fratty, so unless you want to get up close and personal with the polo team stick to the day shift!

1491 2nd Avenue – MXCO
When you’re in the neighborhood and craving Mexican, MXco is a solid choice, every time. Service that makes you feel like you’re at you’re abuela’s and margaritas that will knock you flat keep the neighbors coming back but most agree that portion sizes aren’t in line with pricing.
*Try the braised short rib taco!

1492 2nd Avenue – Vermicelli
Vermicelli is a favorite with the locals, for comforting Vietnamese dishes at comfortable prices. Try the chicken with ginger and scallions in honey sauce (Ga Xao Gung), a favorite at Vermicelli or the grilled pork chop (Suon Nuong), a house specialty in many restaurants featuring Saigon food.

1494 2nd Avenue – Lusardi’s
Lusardi’s has been a neighborhood staple since it first opened in 1982 and regulars have been visiting ever since. Worthy of a special occasion, Lusardi’s service is top notch with prices to match. While the menu options aren’t there to wow you, Owners Luigi and Mauro Lusardi have been at it for 30 years and they stick to what they know works. An extensive Italian wine list rounds out the meal, but not before setting you back a few $$.

1496 2nd Avenue – Bocca East
With a slightly more updated menu than Lusardi’s next door, Bocca East appeals to the younger set of UES patrons with a clean, wine cellar esque design sense and even a late night menu. Best for some wine tasting from their considerable list paired with a few select antipasti, Bocca East will impress almost any date.

Filed Under: Featured, Food and Travel, Food Trends, Informational, Neighborhood News, Reflections and Rants, Restaurant News, Round-up Reviews, Upper East Side Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, Manhattan, NYC, NYC Neighborhoods and Restaurants, Review of NYC Neighborhoods and their Restaurants, Review of NYC Streets and their Eateries, What's On, What's on 77th and 2nd. St. Yorkville, Where to Eat in the East 70s, Where to eat in Yorkville, Where To Eat On The Upper-East Side

What’s On… MacDougal? (btwn Prince and W Houston)

September 2, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

What’s On… MacDougal? (btwn Prince and W Houston)
Soho

Think of MacDougal Street and think of the heart of the Village. That is, until you step south of Houston Street where MacDougal becomes a sleepy, more refined version of itself. Named for Senator and the first president of the Bank of New York, Alexander MacDougall, MacDougal Street has been a fixture in the fame and overall boheme essence of Greenwich Village. The 1950s brought with it, such literary greats as E.E. Cummings, William S. Burroughs, and Dylan Thomas who used Greenwich Village as their muse; and the 1960s saw Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix strum some of their first public chords on this street, leading the way for a whole new take on rock music.

Fried chicken at Hundred Acres

38 MacDougal Street – Hundred Acres
You’ll feel like you’re at home (if your home looked like a French Country style restaurant) at Hundred Acres, whose menu sports the farm to table mantra dishing out comfort food done right. The neighborhood feel and solid menu (with something for everyone) keeps the regulars coming back for more. *Try the pork chop or fried chicken for dinner.

Exterior @ Rouge et Blanc

48 MacDougal Street – Rouge et Blanc

While the sleek wood exterior may deter some, a few steps inside Rouge et Blanc and you’ll feel completely different. The French-Vietnamese food, and atmosphere are both welcoming and serene. The tapas style menu can add up (as they always seem to) – try the fried brussel sprouts or the grilled quail and don’t miss out on the Gateau au Chocolat for dessert!

51 MacDougal Street – Something Special

Grab a cup of coffee while you’re waiting for your ‘something special’ to be notarized. This Village notary has bee a fixture here, for as long as anyone can remember. There are mailboxes for rent, convenient, if you’re trying to live under the radar like Something Special’s celebrity clientele.

56 MacDougal Street – 12 Chairs
The Israeli-Russian menu inspired menu at 12 Chairs is best suited for a lunch date with large salads and plenty of hummus to go around. During the nice weather, this place always has a crowd due to the front doors they open creating a breezy hangout with nice street view. It’s easy to linger with a cup of nana tea and some good company.

58 MacDougal Street – Comodo

At the (very) recently opened Comodo, it’s all about family – and they’ll make you feel like you’re part of theirs. The family run restaurant serves inspired Latin cuisine in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Stop by to check out this new spot for yourself, just don’t forget to try to lamb sliders while you’re there!

Filed Under: Featured, Food and Travel, Informational, Neighborhood News, Reviews, Round-up Reviews, Soho Tagged With: Carolyn Onofrey, Eating in NYC Neighborhoods, Food and Neighborhoods, NYC, NYC Neighborhoods and Their Restaurants, Rouge et Blanc, Round Up of NYC Neighborhoods and their Restaurants, Soho NYC, What's On Column, Where to eat in Soho

What’s On… Lafayette Street (btwn Spring and Kenmare)

July 18, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

What’s On… Lafayette Street (btwn Spring and Kenmare)
Soho

In uber trendy Soho, there are plenty of places that are all trend and no substance. Fortunately for us, Lafayette Streethas some can’t miss food finds – a welcome break to the plethora of shopping in the area. Stop by the Cleveland Place park for a second (that’s all it’ll take to check out this small piece of green), named for President Grover Cleveland who was also at one time the governor of New York City. Other noteworthy, if not morbid, places of interest on the block include former bar, The Falls, where graduate student Imette St. Guillen was last seen leaving with the bouncer who later raped and murdered her and the home of famed NYC DJ, DJ AM who was found dead in his apartment at 210 Lafayette.

Linguine with Clams at Café Select

212 Lafayette Street – Cafe Select
This European style bistro attracts the European style hipster set. The pleasant atmosphere complements the solid menu and carefully selected wine list, making Cafe Select a hot spot no matter what the time of day. Stop by for brunch and try the Croque Monsieur, but don’t forget your reservation or you might be in for a long wait!

218 Lafayette Street – Osteria Morini

This upscale Italian is the brainchild of talented chef Michael White . The rustic Northern Italian fare pays homage to Chef White’s time spent under his mentor, Gianluigi Morini in the Emilia-Romagna region ofItaly. Don’t leave without trying the pasta (any dish is worth your time), or any one of the antipasti and leave full – very full.

222 Lafayette Street- Subway
This sandwich chain is slowly taking over the city. Where there was once a Starbucks on every corner, there is now a Subway on every block!

222 Lafayette Street – Ed’s Lobster Bar
The lobster roll at Ed’s Lobster Bar rivals most that can be found on the New England coastline. It’s a bold statement, but when you take the first bite you’ll surely understand. Chef/owner Ed McFarland creates other New England Summertime favorites such as clam chowder and whole bellied fried clams at this flagship location as well as two other smaller outposts (Battery Park City and Lower East Side).

224 Lafayette Street – Jack’s Wife Freda
Jack’s Wife Freda’s cuisine can only be understood by looking at where husband and wife team, Dean and Maya Jankelowitz have come from. The menu blends Israeli and South African food in a way that only your grandmother could. The understated, simple (yet not cold) decor lends itself to the young and beautiful who romp Soho, but should be enjoyed by all. Great for brunch (try the Shakshuka), but go for dinner if you want to avoid most of the crowd.

62 Spring Street – Spring Street Natural
While this sprawling restaurant calls Spring Street home, its windows and outdoor seating take a good chunk of real estate fromLafayette. Established in 1973, Spring Street Natural has been a fixture in the diets of Soho residents for longer than most can say – which is a good thing; Spring Street Natural focuses on minimally processed, organic whole foods (a step ahead of its time, I’d say) with reasonable prices to boot. No wonder why this place is always crowded.

Filed Under: Cuisines, Featured, Food and Travel, Food Trends, Informational, Reviews, Round-up Reviews, Soho Tagged With: Cafe Select, Carolyn Onofrey, Ed McFarland, Ed's Lobster Bar, Food and Neighborhoods in NYC, Food and NYC Neighborhoods, Gianluigi Morini, Jack's Wife Freda, Kenmare St., Lafayette St., Michael White, NYC, NYC streets and their eateries, Osteria Morini, Soho Eateries, Soho Food, Spring St. Natural, Streets and Eateries of NYC, What's On Column

What’s On… Tenth Avenue? (between 24th and 25th Streets)

June 19, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

What’s On… 10th Avenue? (between 24th and 25th Streets)
Chelsea

BY CAROLYN ONOFREY

With such a close proximity to the London Terrace apartments – a full block of almost 1,000 apartments opened in 1930 featuring a private 1 acre garden and an indoor pool- 10th Avenue between 24th and 25th Streets has long been a bustling neighborhood of its own. The Chelsea gallery scene as well as the opening of the Highline in 2009, has begun to transform this neighborhood even further from a once, mostly industrial area to a warm, thriving community. Restaurant stops, especially on this block have a pleasant familiar feel due to the high sense of pride residents exude in their neighborhood, making everyone feel welcome.

242 10th Avenue – Trestle on Tenth
Stop by Trestle on Tenth for a relaxing brunch before hitting the highline or visiting the many art galleries in the area. Chef Ralf Kuettel imparts his personality into the menu, offering a refreshing alternative to the standard eggs Benedict brunch. Get a seat in the charming back garden – just don’t make Trestle on Tenth your choice if you’re in a hurry as service tends to lean toward the relaxed European side of the menu!

246 10th Avenue – Bottino Takeout
A takeout annex of our next stop on 10th Avenue, Bottino. It’s a staple for those who work in the galleries for a lunchtime salad or sandwich. Grab one of their freshly made sandwiches if you’re in the area and head for the Highline to dine in style!

248 10th Avenue – Bottino
The airy Bottino dining room is the perfect post-gallery hopping spot to enjoy classic Italian fare. Although basic, the menu sports something for everyone and most agree Bottino is a solid find where art galleries reign supreme.

250 10th Avenue - Subway
If you’re not in the mood for a fresh sandwich from Bottino, or just short on cash, stop by this Subway locale for the sandwich that made Jared famous!

252 10th Avenue – Smoke Shop
Not much more than your average bodega, Smoke Shop offers all the necessities plus a nice selection of magazines!

Fusilli @ Pepe Giallo

253 10th Avenue – Pepe Giallo
Families with young children feel comfortable at this neighborhood spot that’s always crowded due to its reasonable pricing and something-for-everyone menu. The portions are large and the outdoor garden can’t be missed, but if it’s being waited on you want – try your luck elsewhere.

254 10th Avenue – Chop-Shop
This brand new Chop-Shop (so new it’s barely on the map!) features gourmet Thai fare. While a liquor license is still currently in the works, the minimalist atmosphere is certainly a pleasant place for an under-the-radar type of date – just make sure you head there before everyone else finds out about it!

Chop-Shop

256 10th Avenue – 10th Avenue Pizza
A neighborhood standby, 10th Avenue Pizza has been delivering hot slices (gyros, sandwiches, and breakfast) for as long as most anyone in the neighborhood can remember. Regulars tout the service is great and the prices superb, however food can be hit or miss.