Last Wednesday night was one of those memorable New York nights; time spent with friends enjoying good food and wine.
I began my evening at Terralucci e Vino (http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/tarallucci-e-vino/) in union Square for a business meeting. We were seated at a rustic communal table in the back, given full view of the restaurant’s design, which is spare and warm. The tables are a light wood and the lighting is soft, creating a flattering glow amongst the dwellers.
I had a nice red (some sort of Merlot/cab mix)- we paired our wine with delicious cheeses that we had the waitress pick out which was such a treat.
The service was impeccable and the price was right.
“Every time I experience a glass of wine at Taralucci e Vino, I can't imagine how anything could be more delicious. Then I have a second glass from another bottle, and experience an even greater pleasure than before,” said my business partner, Kristin Dolle.
After my meeting, I made my way North a bit over to Tom Colicchio’s Craftbar (http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/craftbar/) to meet a friend for dinner.
We ate tapas styles and sampled the Pecorino Risotto balls, Shaved fennel, Hot Cherry pepper, Pecorino salad, Field Mushroom bruschetta, Fontina Cheese and the Fischer Island oysters.
The risotto balls melted in one’s mouth- delectable flavor and a nice crunch to them. The shaved fennel salad was fresh and topped with Parmesan which gave a nice sharpness to the dish. The Field Mushroom bruschetta with fontina cheese was very rich; one or two bites were plenty but so delicious at the same time.
Eating the oysters brought me back to summer out East; it always amazes me how our taste buds often give way to sensory memories.
I paired my food with wine, while my friend Chris had a Bacardi and diet.
"The food was very well done with great flavors. In addition, the service was smooth and professional,” said Chris.
The decor of this restaurant is also spare w/great lighting; it has dark furniture and a sexy, sleek bar where you’d imagine one possibly meeting a date or new prospect.
I would highly recommend this double feature to any girl in New York looking for a beautiful night out filled with amazing wine and food.
Ciao bella!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Brunch at Resto
http://nymag.com/restaurants/reviews/underground/31506/
This past Saturday my girlfriends Mariana, Evelyn and I tried out Resto for brunch.
Located in Grammercy, this spot is truly one that can't be missed.
We met around one o'clock and easily got a table. After perusing the menu, we placed our orders. While waiting for our meals, Mariana and I enjoyed their very generously pored mimosas and Evelyn settled into a cup of warm Stumptown coffee.
The place has a very rustic charm, with wooden tables and hardwood floors. The servers are very friendly and encourage you to sample their extensive imported beer selection.
We were all very pleased upon arrival of our entrees; Mariana and I ordered the Belgian Hangover pasta; a delicious mix of Vermont ham, Gruyere, sunny egg, and black pepper. True comfort food without being overly heavy with an appropriate portion size.
Evelyn ordered the Burger With Fried Egg Gruyere, red onion, pickle, and mayo with a side of fresh greens.
"Resto was a quaint yet fun dining experience. It is a great place to go and catch up with friends, and if you are hungover, be sure to try the Belgian hangover pasta -- a true cure," said Mariana.
Although we were tempted with dessert we ended up settling the bill. Our stomachs full and hearts warmed by conversation, we went on our way into NY.
This past Saturday my girlfriends Mariana, Evelyn and I tried out Resto for brunch.
Located in Grammercy, this spot is truly one that can't be missed.
We met around one o'clock and easily got a table. After perusing the menu, we placed our orders. While waiting for our meals, Mariana and I enjoyed their very generously pored mimosas and Evelyn settled into a cup of warm Stumptown coffee.
The place has a very rustic charm, with wooden tables and hardwood floors. The servers are very friendly and encourage you to sample their extensive imported beer selection.
We were all very pleased upon arrival of our entrees; Mariana and I ordered the Belgian Hangover pasta; a delicious mix of Vermont ham, Gruyere, sunny egg, and black pepper. True comfort food without being overly heavy with an appropriate portion size.
Evelyn ordered the Burger With Fried Egg Gruyere, red onion, pickle, and mayo with a side of fresh greens.
"Resto was a quaint yet fun dining experience. It is a great place to go and catch up with friends, and if you are hungover, be sure to try the Belgian hangover pasta -- a true cure," said Mariana.
Although we were tempted with dessert we ended up settling the bill. Our stomachs full and hearts warmed by conversation, we went on our way into NY.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Dinner at Arturos
http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/arturos/
Last evening I had dinner at Arturos; a pizza place in Greenwhich village. I must say, I love this place!
My friend and I split a large pizza (we should have done the small; our eyes were bigger then our stomachs) with pepperoni and green peppers. The crust was the perfect combination between thin and normal. The cheese, pepperonis and green peppers were fresh and delicious.
The atmosphere is very relaxed; red walls adorn the space with photos hung in vintage frames. You can tell they haven't done much with the place but that's what gives the restaurant character. The lighting is good and they offer a nice outdoor space should you want to join al fresco (which many patrons were doing thanks to our balmy fall weather here in the city).
I paired my pizza with red wine while my friend had Peronis. It was a nice night of conversation and good food- what more can you one ask for!
After dinner we headed over to Pravda (http://nymag.com/listings/bar/pravda/) where we enjoyed the vodka and the scene. It's a great place to mingle. I really like the vibe in this place and the crowd is usually good.
Now off to Dallas for H. Ween weekend...enjoy and stay safe!
Last evening I had dinner at Arturos; a pizza place in Greenwhich village. I must say, I love this place!
My friend and I split a large pizza (we should have done the small; our eyes were bigger then our stomachs) with pepperoni and green peppers. The crust was the perfect combination between thin and normal. The cheese, pepperonis and green peppers were fresh and delicious.
The atmosphere is very relaxed; red walls adorn the space with photos hung in vintage frames. You can tell they haven't done much with the place but that's what gives the restaurant character. The lighting is good and they offer a nice outdoor space should you want to join al fresco (which many patrons were doing thanks to our balmy fall weather here in the city).
I paired my pizza with red wine while my friend had Peronis. It was a nice night of conversation and good food- what more can you one ask for!
After dinner we headed over to Pravda (http://nymag.com/listings/bar/pravda/) where we enjoyed the vodka and the scene. It's a great place to mingle. I really like the vibe in this place and the crowd is usually good.
Now off to Dallas for H. Ween weekend...enjoy and stay safe!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Appetizers and Wine at Del Friscos
Last evening, my girlfriend Evelyn and I headed over to Del Friscos for a bite to eat after picking up our clothes at Saks (friends and family) where I proceeded to also get a mini make over at Channel:).
Del Frisco's (http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/del-friscos-double-eagle-steak-house/) didn't disappoint. Evelyn and I weren't super hungry so we decided to order sirloin tips with potatoes to have with our pinot noir (for me) and pinor grigio (for Evelyn).
Upon first bite our eyes got wide; the sirloin tips were perfectly cooked with strong flavor. They were mixed in with mashed potatoes- the mashed potatoes had garlic cloves which added a nice robustness.
"It was dinner taste in an appetizer portion; just fabulous," said Evelyn. The cost for the appetizer is $12.95; a steal for two people!
I know for a fact I will be going back again soon.
Del Frisco's (http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/del-friscos-double-eagle-steak-house/) didn't disappoint. Evelyn and I weren't super hungry so we decided to order sirloin tips with potatoes to have with our pinot noir (for me) and pinor grigio (for Evelyn).
Upon first bite our eyes got wide; the sirloin tips were perfectly cooked with strong flavor. They were mixed in with mashed potatoes- the mashed potatoes had garlic cloves which added a nice robustness.
"It was dinner taste in an appetizer portion; just fabulous," said Evelyn. The cost for the appetizer is $12.95; a steal for two people!
I know for a fact I will be going back again soon.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Drinks at Flat Iron Lounge
Last evening I met a friend at Flat Iron Lounge (http://nymag.com/listings/bar/flatiron_lounge/). The place has a great vibe with art deco decor. I liked the ambiance, soft lighting and suburb service.
I had a refreshing vodka cucumber concoction while my friend had the Cherry Smash. The crowd was mostly couples although a few singles mingled at the bar area.
Getting a table was easy; note, when you enter, the place seems desolate. The actual lounge area is through the rounded ceiling.
The menu offers a nice mix of classic and original cocktails. The focus remains entirely on drinks versus fussy appetizer fare. They offer no food options.
I suggest this place as a pre or post drop off before a date or a great place to catch up with a friend. The noise level is medium with 40's music playing in the background.
The Flatiron district is making some waves in the culinary scene right now; next I want to try out the newly opened Eataly (http://ny.eater.com/archives/2010/08/first-look-at-culinary-funhouse-eataly.php). Stay Tuned!
I had a refreshing vodka cucumber concoction while my friend had the Cherry Smash. The crowd was mostly couples although a few singles mingled at the bar area.
Getting a table was easy; note, when you enter, the place seems desolate. The actual lounge area is through the rounded ceiling.
The menu offers a nice mix of classic and original cocktails. The focus remains entirely on drinks versus fussy appetizer fare. They offer no food options.
I suggest this place as a pre or post drop off before a date or a great place to catch up with a friend. The noise level is medium with 40's music playing in the background.
The Flatiron district is making some waves in the culinary scene right now; next I want to try out the newly opened Eataly (http://ny.eater.com/archives/2010/08/first-look-at-culinary-funhouse-eataly.php). Stay Tuned!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Derby Saturday
Yesterday, my girlfriends and I were out in full force celebrating Derby Day.
We started our day at The Union League, which was co-hosting a bash with the NYJL and NYAC club. The fashion's were great (note: Dress code was enforced; one of my male friends was asked to leave as he was not dressed up to par) and I saw some amazing hats. One girl had on these great boots (Tan with white- like a chic cowboy boot) paired with this really cool navy silk dress.
I did run into an Ex so that required me to keep my tactfulness in check- he did text me later to say how "great" I looked. Keep in mind this is the second time I saw him this week (after a brief encounter at Hillstones on Park South). Isn't looking good always the best revenge? He is off to Chile for a week for work. Pretty much run of the mill NY jerk so not looking to go back there.
I truly feel Spring is the time to make fresh starts and traditions. Don't waste the pretty!
After the derby party at the Union league, Evelyn and I went to meet our friend Mariana at this very cool penthouse in Hell's Kitchen.
It was four stories with four guys living there; we got in trouble for opening up a bottle of champagne, requiring me to go and apologize to the host. He was very gracious and the bubbly got our early evening off to a fun start.
The party had a bit of a frat-party like feel to it but the views were spectacular and the music really good. Ev and I did talk to two guys who seemed to be interested but left without getting our contact information- I guess such is life. Or as I like to say, Next.
We winded down our evening at my friend's Kevin's place in Grammercy. A mutual friend was having a party at Porch but I was too tired at that point to carry on. As my friends all know, I am not the late night girl. My rest and sanity trump late nights these days.
That brings me to Sunday- I am looking forward to a great spring day in NY hopefully walking in the park. On a closing throught, spring is in the air and new horizon's are upon us!
E
We started our day at The Union League, which was co-hosting a bash with the NYJL and NYAC club. The fashion's were great (note: Dress code was enforced; one of my male friends was asked to leave as he was not dressed up to par) and I saw some amazing hats. One girl had on these great boots (Tan with white- like a chic cowboy boot) paired with this really cool navy silk dress.
I did run into an Ex so that required me to keep my tactfulness in check- he did text me later to say how "great" I looked. Keep in mind this is the second time I saw him this week (after a brief encounter at Hillstones on Park South). Isn't looking good always the best revenge? He is off to Chile for a week for work. Pretty much run of the mill NY jerk so not looking to go back there.
I truly feel Spring is the time to make fresh starts and traditions. Don't waste the pretty!
After the derby party at the Union league, Evelyn and I went to meet our friend Mariana at this very cool penthouse in Hell's Kitchen.
It was four stories with four guys living there; we got in trouble for opening up a bottle of champagne, requiring me to go and apologize to the host. He was very gracious and the bubbly got our early evening off to a fun start.
The party had a bit of a frat-party like feel to it but the views were spectacular and the music really good. Ev and I did talk to two guys who seemed to be interested but left without getting our contact information- I guess such is life. Or as I like to say, Next.
We winded down our evening at my friend's Kevin's place in Grammercy. A mutual friend was having a party at Porch but I was too tired at that point to carry on. As my friends all know, I am not the late night girl. My rest and sanity trump late nights these days.
That brings me to Sunday- I am looking forward to a great spring day in NY hopefully walking in the park. On a closing throught, spring is in the air and new horizon's are upon us!
E
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Energy Kitchen-Obsessment (aka Steph O)
Energy Kitchen
307 W 17th St, New York 10011
(Btwn 8th & 9th Ave)
http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/energy-kitchen-3/
I tried out Energy Kitchen for the first time the other night before hitting up Equinox (or shall I see Chiquinox). I had heard advertised that everything listed on the menu is under 500 calories, so I figured it would be worth trying out in my attempt to be a "skinny bitch".
I went to the location on 17th between 8th and 9th and ordered the Italian Chicken wrap on a whole wheat wrap with grilled chicken, marinara sauce, and low-fat mozzarella ($7.99). I added some hot sauce which topped off the wrap quite nicely.
The wrap was very fresh, and I particularly liked the portion size; which was perfect. I combined it with a diet sprite from a bodega as I feared they wouldn't have soda (as many of my friends have noted, I have a serious addiction to soda which I can't seem to boot).
They do, thankfully, have soda; albeit all diet. My friend Dan suggested not attempting the Crystal light (a bit aritificial in flavor).
My friend Stephanie is also very into EK and said that "If you want a bang for your buck and no more lumps in your trunk go to energy kitchen - I recommend the Thai chicken wrap ($7.99)
with a side of Tahini sauce... still not convinced that it's under the 500 calorie mark". I have to agree with her about the calorie count; the food tastes so good it's hard to believe it's that healthy.
Dan prefers the the sides saying "the mashed sweet potatoes are my jam."
The atmosphere is very fresh; all white with a diner like feel. I was the only girl which surprised me a bit; I wouldn't necessarily go for the atmosphere but it's certainly a good stop to try if you are wanting healthy food on the run. They also deliver.
Overall Rating:
4/4 Spoons
Healthy food on the run!
307 W 17th St, New York 10011
(Btwn 8th & 9th Ave)
http://www.menupages.com/restaurants/energy-kitchen-3/
I tried out Energy Kitchen for the first time the other night before hitting up Equinox (or shall I see Chiquinox). I had heard advertised that everything listed on the menu is under 500 calories, so I figured it would be worth trying out in my attempt to be a "skinny bitch".
I went to the location on 17th between 8th and 9th and ordered the Italian Chicken wrap on a whole wheat wrap with grilled chicken, marinara sauce, and low-fat mozzarella ($7.99). I added some hot sauce which topped off the wrap quite nicely.
The wrap was very fresh, and I particularly liked the portion size; which was perfect. I combined it with a diet sprite from a bodega as I feared they wouldn't have soda (as many of my friends have noted, I have a serious addiction to soda which I can't seem to boot).
They do, thankfully, have soda; albeit all diet. My friend Dan suggested not attempting the Crystal light (a bit aritificial in flavor).
My friend Stephanie is also very into EK and said that "If you want a bang for your buck and no more lumps in your trunk go to energy kitchen - I recommend the Thai chicken wrap ($7.99)
with a side of Tahini sauce... still not convinced that it's under the 500 calorie mark". I have to agree with her about the calorie count; the food tastes so good it's hard to believe it's that healthy.
Dan prefers the the sides saying "the mashed sweet potatoes are my jam."
The atmosphere is very fresh; all white with a diner like feel. I was the only girl which surprised me a bit; I wouldn't necessarily go for the atmosphere but it's certainly a good stop to try if you are wanting healthy food on the run. They also deliver.
Overall Rating:
4/4 Spoons
Healthy food on the run!
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