Bianca

REVIEW

July 8, 2009


CUISINE: Italian
NEIGHBORHOOD: East Village, Noho, Nolita

 

5 Bleeker Street at Bowery

(p) 212-260-4666

 

Considering the high-quality of the food combined with the charming atmosphere, the prices at Bianca are shockingly low. Pastas are all under $12 and there isn't a protein dish that exceeds $15. The tiny space is country-chic with homey porcelain plates displayed on wooden shelves. Low-lighting, along with wooden floors and brick walls keeps the vibe cool and fresh.  As for the food, the menu hits many favorites, including a savory tagliatelle alla bolegnese, traditional Roman meat lasagna, and a simple spaghettini with tomato and basil.  The gramigna pasta with crumbled sausage and red bell pepper is one of our favorites, packed with a little heat, but mild enough to lure anyone with a salty appetite. The only downside to this cozy spot is the no-reservation and no-credit card policy. But there is a solution! While waiting for a table, we recommend uncorking a bottle of wine at the bar next door. The drinks (and tab) can be transferred to Bianca once you score a seat.

 


Posted in FOOD on July 8, 2009 2:19pm by Jena Steinbach | 0 comments





MERCAT

REVIEW

March 3, 2009


CUISINE: Spanish, Tapas, Wine Bar
NEIGHBORHOOD: East Village, Greenwich Village, Noho

45 Bond St between Lafayette and Bowery

(p) 212-529-8600

 

(Patates Braves)

 

Monday morning I awoke, like the rest of Manhattan, to find a blizzard outside my window. The wind was howling, snow was accumulating, and the temperature was 16 degrees but felt like 2. At dinner time, the streets of NYC were empty, and so was Mercat. Upon entering I felt an immediate warmth, despite the high ceilings and almost overwhelming size of the space. The decor is sleek and clean, yet still homey thanks to exposed brick walls, low lighting, and dark wooden tables. While waiting for my friend, I ordered a glass of red wine, which was generous in both size and price ($13)...  

 


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Posted in FOOD on March 3, 2009 4:32pm by Jena Steinbach | 2 comments



JANE

REVIEW

February 15, 2009


CUISINE: American (New), Brunch, Burgers
NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenwich Village, Noho

100 W Houston St, New York 10012

(Btwn Thompson St & LaGuardia Place)
(p)212-254-7000
The creme brulee French toast is the best in the city, but Jane is also the only place we have ever encountered eggshells in an omelet.  You now know what to order. 

 


Posted in FOOD on February 15, 2009 8:59pm by Jena Steinbach | 0 comments