I Just Want To Eat! 8/31/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/31/15

Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark: the world number one restaurant?

I have been looking forward for our lunch at Noma for a while and was really excited to go to what has been considered the best restaurant in the world in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014 and ranking third best in 2015. I was first surprised by the location of the restaurant that I imagined outside the city, next to a forest where the Chef and his crew would get some of the unusual ingredients they use in their menu on a daily basis. I was wrong: it is located in an old warehouse on the waterfront in the Christianshavn neighborhood, in the center of the city. I loved the atmosphere there that was very relaxed and you could sense the excitement of the diners (I was not the only one to take photos). When we arrived, we were greeted by quite few people and were stunned by the number of staff. We learnt later that they have roughly a ratio of one to one between dinner and staff, staff that is composed of twenty different nationalities. So don't be surprised if somebody from your country is serving you as they try to pair diners with staff by nationality to make them feel home, whenever possible.
Noma was for sure a unique experience: fantastic service and incredible food that I cannot really compare or want to compare with anything I ever tried before. But, to appreciate it, you need to be open minded: you will eat flowers and maybe insects. Of course, they use common ingredients and we got for instance bone marrow and lobster (not at the same time).

Before I talk about the food, let's talk about the space: I would call it modern rustic and it might be the theme of the restaurant, taking what nature offers and serving it with a modern twist.

Dining table at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Dining room at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

The dining room is overlooked by the kitchen, if not the contrary, and we got the chance, like others, to not only visit the kitchen, but also the hidden part of what looks like a laboratory, including the space where they taste dishes people imagine and decide either to dice them, improve them or serve them. There was in fact a session at the time we were there.

Dish tasting at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

The same large room is used for study, relaxing, and growing herbs that will be used in the kitchen. I should also mention the containers that are the fermentation lab outside: they ferment all sorts of things there and a quick passage into one of the rooms is sufficient to fill your nose with this particular smell...

Growing herbs at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Prep room at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Fermentation lab at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

There is also the kitchen, magical place where the fantastic food we tried was assembled. Remember, we visited it after we finished eating and most of the lunch service was completed.

So, back to the food; they serve a unique menu and understand this word in both ways: unique because there is only one (if you are vegetarian, they will accommodate), but also because there is no other place like this. To go with the meal, they interestingly, offer a fresh juice pairing (Danes apparently love fresh juices) as well offer a wine pairing (nice amount per serving, with wines from all over the world). We went for the later.

Champagne at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Glass of Champagne at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

After a glass of Champagne to celebrate our wedding anniversary, we got the following dishes:

Turnip and unripe strawberry marinated in aquavit:

Turnip marinated in aquavit at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Unripe strawberry marinated in aquavit at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Whole wheat bread and virgin butter:

Whole wheat bread at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Virgin butter at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Cabbage leaf and white currant:

The First shoots of the Season with scallop marinade (Jodi got the same, but the scallop marinade was replace by an all vegetarian option):

First shoots of the season Cabbage leaf and white currant at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Sweet peas, milk curd and sliced kelp:

Sweet peas and milk curd at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Our first pairing was turnip and green strawberries juice and flower tart:

Turnip and green strawberries juice at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Flower tart at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

The next pairing was an apple and pine juice (my favorite) with New Danish potatoes and lavage:

New Danish potatoes at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Creme fraiche at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Apple and pine juice at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

This was a take on a traditional Danish dish, with the most surprising part being our fork that was not edible:

Natural fork at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Next pairing was sweet shrimp wrapped in ramson leaves and carrots and gooseberries juice:

Sweet shrimp wrapped in ramson leaves at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Carrots and gooseberries juice at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Cabbage and roses:

Mahogany clam and grains (a 100 year old clam!):

Mahogany clam at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Monkfish liver (my least favorite):

Monkfish liver at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

White asparagus, goosefoot and barley:

Lobster and Nasturtium (the lobster was so beautifully cooked):

Lobster and Nasturtium at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

If I remember, it was paired with rose tea that was also a good palate cleanser:

Vegetable flower:

Roasted bone marrow (my favorite):

Roasted bone marrow at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

The bone marrow was paired with a cabbage juice.

Cabbage juice at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Berries and greens soaked in vinegar for one year:

Berries and greens at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Rhubarb and sheep milk yogurt:

This was paired with a sorel juice:

Sorel juice at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

Then came one of the most surprising ingredient to try: moss. The dish was forrest flavors, chocolate and egg liquor (eggnog):

Forrest flavors at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

I did not really liked the chocolates, but the fried moss was delicious: crispy with a taste I cannot describe. They were in fact cleaning it in one of their rooms upstairs and we got a glimpse at it.

Once we finished our meal, we went to the lounge to get some coffee and tea.

Double espresso at Noma in Copenhagen, Denmark

This was a memorable meal and I am sure you are wondering if I think Noma is the best restaurant in the world. Service wise, it is one of the best services I ever had; food wise, I guess that if you rate based on uniqueness of the menu, it probably is. Otherwise, there are plenty of restaurants out there that are as good, if not better. But, if you are in Copenhagen and can afford to go there, it is certainly not a place to miss.

Enjoy (I did)!

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I Just Want To Eat! 8/28/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/28/15

Brunch at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

I like bar food and enjoy a brunch in a bar. But what I do not like is the noise level that can be pretty high, especially when there is a game on TV. That explains probably why it took me so long before going to 1Republik in Hoboken. But we made it, on a Sunday, showing up at 11:30am. I admit that it was not our first choice, but I am glad we did as the food was fairly good. Time wise, it was perfect as the noise level increased as the time passed, to a point when I was glad to leave...

Dining room at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

It is a big place, with a large menu that can satisfy a wide range of customers. And guess what: for brunch, you can get a $2 mimosa!

Mimosa at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

For appetizer, they have the great idea to propose a sampler that can definitely be shared by more than two persons.

Sampler at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

The sampler contains buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks, fried calamari and truffled tater tots.

Chicken wings at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

Fried calamari at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

Mozzarella sticks at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

Truffle tater tots at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

When they brought the platter, we could smell the truffle (probably oil). All of the items were delicious, my favorite being the wings (slightly spicy), the fried calamari (well cooked and not rubbery), the tater tots and the gouey sticks. None of the fried items were greasy, but it was definitely not a dish I would have ordered if I was on some sort of diet!

For the entrée, Jodi picked the strawberry and goat cheese salad, without onions and walnut.

Strawberry and goat cheese salad at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

On my side, I went for the crab cakes appetizer, rightfully anticipating when ordering that the sampler would be big.

Crab cakes at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

Crab cake at 1Republik in Hoboken, New Jersey

The salad was good, the strawberries and goat cheese pairing well together. The crab cakes were ok, having inside some pepper, red onions and celery that kind of overpowered a bit the crab.

It was overall a good brunch and I would probably go back to 1Republik. Maybe for burger as they have an interesting selection on their menu...

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share or post a comment. Merci

I Just Want To Eat! 8/25/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/25/15

The Harold in NYC, New York

Located in the heart of Herald Square and at the tip of K-Town, The Harold is a bistro I did not expect to find there: good food and nice service, the menu offers a good variety of dishes that can satisfy a wide range of customers. I admit that I went there to try their lobster roll, but, unfortunately, they served it only for lunch.

Bread basket at The Harold in NYC, New York

Grilled bread at The Harold in NYC, New York

After eating some grilled bread that they brought to the table, our appetizer, the flight of dips, came.

Flight of dips at The Harold in NYC, New York

Smoked eggplant at The Harold in NYC, New York

White beans at The Harold in NYC, New York

Grilled pita at The Harold in NYC, New York

Spicy feta at The Harold in NYC, New York

Served with grilled pita, it was composed of grilled eggplant, spicy feta, white beans and tzatziki. This was delicious, the spicy feta being was of my favorites. But, I wish there was a bit more of everything. This is a perfect appetizer to share and to open your appetite.

Then came the fish tacos.

Fish tacos at The Harold in NYC, New York

The presentation was beautiful, being colorful. These were decent fish tacos, made with some heavenly crispy cod, a citrus salsa and an ancho chili creme fraiche.

Last was Fish and Chips.

Fish and chips at The Harold in NYC, New York

Mushy peas at The Harold in NYC, New York

French fries at The Harold in NYC, New York

Crispy fish at The Harold in NYC, New York

The fish, that might have been cod, was dipped in a tempura batter that was deliciously crispy; it was perfectly cooked, moist and flakey. It was served with mushy peas that I did not really care about, and French fries that were decent.

This was overall a good meal and I surely did not expect it. Would I go back? Definitely. I would probably try their brunch, where they have few eggs Benedict options, as well as the lobster roll I really wanted to try...

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share or post a comment. Merci!

I Just Want To Eat! 8/22/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/22/15

It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ - Closed

We went to It's Greek To Me many years ago, and I recall that we left a bit disappointed about our experience, the food being salty and not that great. So, we decided to give it another try and ended up there first for lunch, and then for dinner, our first meal being fairly good.

Located on Washington street, the decor of the place is supposed to represent Greece, like being transported there as soon as you enter there.

Dining room at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Dining room at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Ceiling at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Ceiling at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

When we went for lunch, we tried the following dishes:

Saganaki or kefalograviera cheese (fried and not flambé):

Saganaki at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Saganaki at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Melitzanosalata or eggplant salad with pita:

Melitzanosalata or eggplant salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Melitzanosalata or eggplant salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Pita at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Pita at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Grilled octopus:

Small Greek salad (not enough feta):

Greek salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Greek salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Homemade baklava:

Baklava at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Baklava at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

These dishes were overall good, my favorite being the saganaki that was deliciously chewy. However, I was a bit disappointed by the octopus that, not only was small, but was not as good as other places I went to such as Telly's Taverna in Astoria or Uncle Nick's in New York. I should mention that their baklava was very good, with lots of honey and nuts in it (I hate when a baklava is dry).

For dinner, we got:

Melitzana or fried eggplant with tzatziki (I wish there was more tzatziki):

Melitzana or fried eggplant with tzatziki at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Melitzana or fried eggplant with tzatziki at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

The horiatiki pizza (Greek pizza!), made with fresh tomatoes, feta and Greek olives:

Horiatiki or Greek salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Horiatiki or Greek salad at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

Shrimp Mykonos, served with fresh tomatoes and feta over orzo:

Shrimp Mykonos at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Shrimp Mykonos at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

For dessert, we went for the ravani, a sweet semolina cake soaked in a light syrup: it was delicious!

Ravani cake at at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ — Ravani cake at at It's Greek To Me in Hoboken, NJ

The dinner was even better, with the Greek pizza being very good and kind of surprising, although it is said that pizza was invented by the Greek community in Sicily, from pita thrown into the brick ovens, to clean them. The shrimp Mykonos was good, but missing a bit of sauce and cheese.

We had decent meals at It's Greek To Me: it is not the best Greek restaurant I have tried, but it can satisfy this type of craving. I definitely prefer Telly's Taverna in Astoria or Uncle Nick's in New York for this range of prices. For a more elegant setting, Molyvos or Thalassa are even better!

Enjoy (I did)!

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I Just Want To Eat! 8/19/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/19/15

Fantastic burger at The Brindle Room in NYC, New York

Bon sang! I probably just found one of the best burgers in town! Well, I would not specifically say that I found it: we saw it on the 5 Best Restaurants, a TV show on the food network that will make you salivate. They cover any kind of food: burgers, pizza, ice cream...The first episode we saw was on burgers and ranking number 2 was Sebastian's Steakhouse burger.

Bon sang! I probably just found one of the best burgers in town! Well, I would not specifically say that I found it: we saw it on the 5 Best Restaurants, a TV show on the food network that will make you salivate. They cover any kind of food: burgers, pizza, ice cream...The first episode we saw was on burgers and, ranking number 2, was Sebastian's Steakhouse burger.

Sebastian's Steakhouse Burger at The Brindle Room in NYC, New York — Sebastian's Steakhouse Burger at The Brindle Room in NYC, New York

This burger is an all beef 6oz patty made with quality meat coming from the New Jersey steakhouse, Sebastian's, of one of the owners, Dean Piccolo (beef neck dry-aged for 30 days, 65% top grade beef and 10% fat that is around the kidneys). It is cooked in a cast iron pan so the fat would not drip out and would remain there for the pleasure of the diners. The patty sits on a white bun and is topped with American cheese and caramelized onions. Temperature wise, they recommend it medium and will not even ask you if it is fine for you (I guess you can tell them if you want a different temperature as they clearly mention it on the menu.

The burger is served with fries and a pickle. Looking at the burger, you may not think it looks exceptional, but the first bite will make you think you are in heaven: you definitely taste the meat that is juicy and has a nice char that gives a little crunchiness to the the burger. The only regret I had was that I did not get more as I could have eaten a second one, transported by the excitement to eat such a flavorful burger.

Dining room at The Brindle Room in NYC, New York — Dining room at The Brindle Room in NYC, New York

I should mention that it is a small place, so reservation might be necessary...The Brindle Room has for sure one of the best burgers in town. They propose only one burger on their menu and I can tell you that it is worth paying $15. Would I go back? Hell yeah!

Enjoy (I sure did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

I Just Want To Eat! 8/16/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/16/15

La Masseria, Italian restaurant in NYC, New York

La Masseria is with Toni Di Napoli, my favorite Italian restaurant in the Times Square area. Although a bit pricey, it's menu offers some classic Italian dishes in a decor that would make you forget you are in the heart of the city. In a farm, La Masseria is the building where tools to live animals are housed, representing the freshness of ingredients and authenticity of the cuisine. This explains the decor, especially the farm tools hanging on the walls.

Dining room at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Dining room at La Masseria in NYC, New York

La Masseria is with Toni Di Napoli, my favorite Italian restaurant in the Times Square area. Although a bit pricey, it's menu offers some classic Italian dishes in a decor that would make you forget you are in the heart of the city. In a farm, La Masseria in Italian is the building where tools to live animals are housed, representing the freshness of ingredients and authenticity of the cuisine. This explains the decor, especially the farm tools hanging on the walls.

It is a fairly big place and we were seated in the back of the dining room, upstairs, on a corner overlooking the restaurant, but a bit difficult for the staff to reach.

Bread basket at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Bread basket at La Masseria in NYC, New York

We started our dinner by sharing the meatballs: polpette di manzo della Masseria.

Polpette di manzo della Masseria at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Polpette di manzo della Masseria at La Masseria in NYC, New York

I appreciated the fact that, knowing we were sharing, they split the dish. The meatballs were of a good size, tasty and moist, bathed in a thick tomato sauce that had a bold flavor. This is a classic that is always a crowd pleaser and if an Italian restaurant does not know how to make meatballs, it says a lot abut the rest of the food.

For the entrée, I went for the calf liver or fegato di vitello spadellato all'aceto di mirtilli:

Calf liver at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Calf liver at La Masseria in NYC, New York

The liver was served with onions and blueberry vinegar. It was a very good dish, the liver being perfectly cooked. I admit that I love the combination of onion and vinegar that give sweetness and acidity to the dish.

Jodi got the Scialiatelli quattro passi, that are home made short cut thick fettuccini with eggplant and smoked mozzarella.

Scialiatelli quattro passi at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Scialiatelli quattro passi at La Masseria in NYC, New York

This was a good dish, earthy and very comforting. Definitely worth trying.

For dessert, we could not leave without trying the tiramisu.

Tiramisu at La Masseria in NYC, New York — Tiramisu at La Masseria in NYC, New York

It was a good tiramisu, not the best and as creamy as I like it, but good.

Dinner was good: delicious food and excellent service. La Masseria is definitely my go to place for Italian in that area.

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

I Just Want To Eat! 8/13/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/13/15

Fish and Chips at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York

No need to cross the ocean to get some good fish and chips: A Salt and Battery (a play on assault and battery) is probably your spot if you are craving this so British specialty..or if you are curious about trying some fried candy bars (I guess anything can be fried).

This is a very small joint with very few seats.

This is a very small joint with very few seats.

Menu wise, they offer different kinds of fish: cod and haddock that are the most common and that we tried, as well as sole. Unusual was to see scallops.

Less than ten minutes after we ordered at the counter, our order of cod, haddock and fries (the chips, sold separately) was ready. We decided to go with the regular size that was enough for us, but know that if you have a big appetite, they offer a large portion.

Fried cod at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York — Fried cod at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York

Fried haddock at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York — Fried haddock at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York

Do not expect them to serve the fish on newspaper there, health regulation probably prevents them from doing it (I do not need ink on my fish anyway). Both dishes came piping hot and I thought the regular portion was a good size. The batter was slightly greasy, but not soggy and was nicely golden. The fish was perfectly cooked and flakey. The ensemble was very good and well seasoned.

French fries at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York — French fries at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York

As far as the fries were concerned, they were good, but I prefer mine thinner and crispier. But don't get me wrong: I still enjoyed it.

But, what I was most curious to try was the deep fried lion bar. You my not know what a Lion bar is as I rarely see it in the U.S. Composed of filled wafer, caramel (32%), crisp cereal (26%) and Peanut Butter (14%) covered in milk chocolate (42%), it is fairly common in Europe where you can find different variety as well as cereals.

Fried Lion bar at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York — Fried Lion bar at A Salt And Battery in NYC, New York

I waited until I finished my fish to ask them to make it, following their advice, as you want to eat it hot. When it came, it did not particularly look good, but I can tell you that the first bite was divine, as were the subsequent ones. Everything besides the wafer and cereal is melted and goes so well with the batter. This is definitely a must have.

I wanted to go to A Salt and Battery for a while now to try their fish and chips and was not disappointed. Would I go back? Definitely, not only for the fish and chips, but also to indulge with some other deep fried candy bars!

Enjoy (I surely did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci

I Just Want To Eat! 8/10/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/10/15

Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Getting a reservation for a Friday night was not difficult and they confirmed twice with us that we were coming for dinner, reminding me each time that jacket is required. Located on Duane street, very close to Khe-Yo, this is a stunning place: big, with an elegant setting , you cannot miss the entrance with its wall of apples, the lounge area with its purple color and flowers, the vaulted ceilings brushed with gold leaves, the heavy wooden doors and the thick carpet that contribute to the general atmosphere of the restaurant. It is fancy, pricey, but comfortable, with a good service, as expected in such place.

For our wedding anniversary, we decided to go to Bouley, the eponymous contemporary French restaurant of famous chef Daniel Bouley, located in TriBeCa.

Entrance at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Entrance at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Lounge at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Lounge at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Menu wise, it is contemporary French and you do not find classics that Chef Bouley probably mastered when working for Chef Paul Bocuse in France at some point of his career. For dinner, they propose a six course tasting menu or a three course tasting; we went for the later. After ordering our appetizer, entree and dessert all at once, they brought us some semolina bread, as well as an apple and raisin bread.

Bread at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Bread at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Bread cart at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Bread cart at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

But then, before our entree came, we heard a squeaky sound: it was a bread cart similar to a cheese or dessert cart, featuring different kinds of breads.

To start, they brought us a chilled tomato coulis made with a cucumber gelée.

Chilled tomato coulis at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Chilled tomato coulis at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

It was very refreshing, a play on gazpacho that was perfect to open our appetite and cool us down. With it came toast that had a truffle purée on top that I inhaled...

For appetizer, Jodi ordered the Forager's treasure of wild mushrooms, a dish composed of mushrooms, sweet garlic and grilled tuna (toro):

Forager's treasure of wild mushrooms at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Forager's treasure of wild mushrooms at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Good dish, although the tuna had a bit of a fishy taste, far from the succulent taste of seared tuna we had in other restaurants.

On my side, I was close to order the foie gras, but decided to go for the Pacific oyster that was roasted and served with chanterelle mushrooms.

Pacific oyster at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Pacific oyster at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

I first tried pacific oysters at ..., and really wanted to have these large oysters again. I was not disappointed: not only was the oyster fantastic and deliciously fresh, but the sauce and mushrooms were incredible. I could have licked the plate, but it would not have been appropriate...

For her entrée, Jodi picked the Chatham Day Boat cod fish, served with mushrooms (again?), artichoke and romanesco that is an edible flower from the same family as broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Chatham Day Boat cod fish at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Chatham Day Boat cod fish at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

On my side, I went for the Maine lobster.

Maine lobster at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Maine lobster at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

The fish was composed of fava beans, white asparagus and a pomegranate sauce (weird: the menu said black truffle blood orange dressing, but I did not taste or smell truffle and they said pomegranate when they presented the dish). It was succulent: the lobster being the star of the dish, perfectly cooked. I definitely recommend it.

Both dishes came with a fingerling potato purée that was delicious (I wish there was more).

Fingerling potato purée at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Fingerling potato purée at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Before dessert came, they served us a coconut soup with amaretto ice cream and pineapple granité.

Coconut soup with amaretto ice cream at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Coconut soup with amaretto ice cream at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

I liked it and it was a good palate cleanser in a way. Then, they brought us some chocolates and cookies, and I admit that we could not resist, although we were full.

Chocolates and cookies at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Chocolates and cookies at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Dessert was a bit disappointing. We tried the hot Valrhona chocolate soufflé with white coffee cloud, coffee ice cream and a chocolate mousse.

Valrhona chocolate soufflé at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Valrhona chocolate soufflé at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

As well as the hot caramelized Anjou pear tart that came with crème fraiche and huckleberry:

Caramelized Anjou pear tart at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Caramelized Anjou pear tart at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Creme fraiche and huckleberry at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Creme fraiche and huckleberry at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

The soufflé was slightly overcooked, but I liked the Anjou pear tart, the crust being a buttery biscuit Breton.

I should mention that I drank a glass of Vouvray sec, Philippe Foreau 1999, from Loire, France.

Vouvray sec at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Vouvray sec at Bouley in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Our dinner at Bouley was good, but I admit that I was not wowed as I expected. Would I go back? Maybe, but if I had to pick a restaurant in TriBeCa, it would be Little Park first. And for contemporary French, I would rather go to Daniel...

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

I Just Want To Eat! 8/7/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/7/15

Il Tinello: Italian restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, NYC, New York

If you are looking for an old school Italian restaurant that serves traditional dishes from northern Italy, Il Tinello Ristorante might be the place for you. Opening about 30 years ago, it is an elegant and pricey restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. I admit that I do not remember that much the decor, the lights being very dimmed, making me worry about the photos I would take during the meal.

If you are looking for an old school Italian restaurant that serves traditional dishes from northern Italy, Il Tinello Ristorante might be the place for you. Opening about 30 years ago, it is an elegant and pricey restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. I admit that I do not remember that much aboutnthe decor, the lights being very dimmed, making me worry about the photos I would take during the meal.

Dining room at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Dining room at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

There, you will find classic dishes and it seems the Chef has no intention to add his own twist. But, hey, Classic Italian is fantastic, so why change it! Menu wise, Italian food lovers will be pleased: there is homemade pasta, seafood or meat, with plenty of vegetarian dishes. There, you will also notice the cart of antipasti, as well as the cart of dessert, that the waiters in white jackets tried to push in the tight space between tables.

Cart of antipasti at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Cart of antipasti at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

I was there with a friend and we shared couple of dishes that the staff nicely split in separate plates. To start, they brought a bruschetta, as well as some bread.

Bread basket at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Bread basket at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

Bruschetta at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Bruschetta at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

The first appetizer that came was the tuna tartare. Right away, as they knew we would share dishes, they split them evenly; I thought it was a nice gesture.

Tuna tartare at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Tuna tartare at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

The tartare was ok, missing a bit of acidity. Then was the linguine all'amatriciana, a thick sauce made with tomato, pancetta and onions. This is definitely a delicious comforting dish, but I wish there was more sauce in it.

Linguine all'amatriciana at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Linguine all'amatriciana at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

Then, I tried the scampi il tinello, or shrimp in a white wine sauce and a touch of pesto. Quite good, the shrimp were of a nice size.

Scampi il tinello at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Scampi il tinello at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

But my favorite was the veal Milanese, a breaded veal chop nicely pounded, served with arugula. Perfect dish that had a slight crispness from the delightful breading. I definitely recommend it.

Veal Milanese at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Veal Milanese at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

Last was a decent homemade tiramisu.

Tiramisu at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Tiramisu at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

They also brought some Italian cookies with our coffee.

Italian cookies at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Italian cookies at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

Espresso at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Espresso at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

I should add that I had wine, but I do not recall the name of it and did not have a photo of the bottle (I took it by the glass)...

Wine at Il Tinello in NYC, New York — Wine at Il Tinello in NYC, New York

It was a good meal, but I admit that I found much better Italian options in the area, such as Osteria Del Circo, Remi or Il Corso. Would I go back? Maybe...

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I Just Want To Eat! 8/4/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/4/15

Restaurant Week: Benoit in NYC, New York

If there is a place that does not disappoint for Restaurant Week, it is Benoit, the French bistro owned by Chef Alain Ducasse. This is the perfect occasion to try this place that I visited before (check my review of Benoit here).

I love the feel of that place that makes you travel miles away, in an elegant French bistro in Paris.

I love the feel of that place that makes you travel miles away, in an elegant French bistro in Paris.

Tap room at Benoit in NYC, New York — Tap room at Benoit in NYC, New York

Dining room at Benoit in NYC, New York — Dining room at Benoit in NYC, New York

For restaurant week Summer 2015, they offer the traditional appetizer, entrée and dessert for $25 (lunch): a good deal for this place. I went with one of my friends on a Friday. I was surprised that the place was not packed. It might have been because people preferred a place with a terrace, the weather being quite nice outside.

Bread and butter at Benoit in NYC, New York — Bread and butter at Benoit in NYC, New York

Bread at Benoit in NYC, New York — Bread at Benoit in NYC, New York

They started off by bringing some cheese puffs or goujeres that were fantastic (not enough I would say) and some bread and butter.

Gougères or cheese puffs at Benoit in NYC, New York — Gougères or cheese puffs at Benoit in NYC, New York

Then, they proposed a gazpacho as the soup of the day. Not really a French specialty, but perfect for the summer.

Gazpacho at Benoit in NYC, New York — Gazpacho at Benoit in NYC, New York

It was served in the same pot as a French onion soup would be served in, adding a bit of charm. It was good and refreshing, although I like mine less chunky.

For the entrée, there was a Massachusetts hake

Hake at Benoit in NYC, New York — Hake at Benoit in NYC, New York

But I preferred the poulet a la Basquaise (Basque chicken), a South Western specialty from France. It is a braised chicken cooked in a sauce made with tomatoes, peppers, shallots... and served with rice.

Poulet a la Basquaise at Benoit in NYC, New York — Poulet a la Basquaise at Benoit in NYC, New York

Riz pilaf at Benoit in NYC, New York — Riz pilaf at Benoit in NYC, New York

I loved the presentation that was very rustic. Taste wise, it was delicious: the chicken was perfectly cooked and moist and I could have eaten the sauce with a spoon. It was a very comforting dish.

For dessert, they had the classic creme brûlée,

Creme brûlée at Benoit in NYC, New York — Creme brûlée at Benoit in NYC, New York

As well as some homemade tarts. I decided to go for the strawberry and pistachio tart that was superb, especially the crust that was buttery.

Strawberry and pistachio tart at Benoit in NYC, New York — Strawberry and pistachio tart at Benoit in NYC, New York

This was a great deal and I really recommend Benoit for Restaurant Week or just for a regular meal there. This is for me a good choice if you are looking for a French restaurant. And if you go, try their cassoulet: it is divine!

Enjoy (I did)!

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I Just Want To Eat! 8/1/15 I Just Want To Eat! 8/1/15

Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa

Tiny's and The Bar Upstairs is a popular place located in TriBeCa and housed in a three story building that dates from 1810. There, siblings Ana, Jack and Matt Abramcyk paired with Chef Paul Warthen to serve to an hungry crowd some American dishes with southern and French influences.

Menu at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Menu at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

We went there for brunch and decided to eat outside, in the tiny terrace, enjoying a nice brise. I started off with a refreshing fresh squeezed orange juice (yes, the table was slightly tilted...).

Orange juice at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Orange juice at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

Then, couple of minutes, our entrées came. Jodi ordered the gruyere omelette.

Gruyere omelette at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Gruyere omelette at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

When the omelette came, I immediately noticed the perfect yellow color, that definitely shows some technic. It was a very good omelette: fluffy and not dry at all, with lots of cheese.

Tater tots at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Tater tots at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

It came with arugula, but most noticeably, some cheddar and chives tater tots, homemade. These were fantastic, with a slight delightful greasiness and crispness that made me regret there were not more on Jodi's plate.

On my side, I went for the oven baked French toast. It was served with spiced pecan, crème anglaise and apple butter.

Oven baked French toast at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York — Oven baked French toast at Tiny's And The Bar Upstairs in TriBeCa, NYC, New York

I admit that, when it came to the table, I was surprised by the portion that was fairly small for a $14 dish and was glad I could eat half of Jodi's omelette. They could have easily cut a larger slice of bread and there was no need to add any crème anglaise or apple butter to it as it was literally bathing the bread. And let me tell you: this was delicious! I would have had a spoon or forgotten my bonnes manières, I would have licked the plate!

The brunch at Tiny's and The Bar Upstairs was really good and I would definitely love me to go for dinner one night, hoping that the noise level will be acceptable.

Enjoy (I did)!

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