I haven’t been writing as much about food these past few weeks, possibly due to my tight fitting pants.
But after a recent lunch with two friends who freely admitted to carrying some extra baggage on their waistlines (and no holding back on dessert), I thought “I need to get back in the game”.
One of these friends lives halfway around the world, in a bone dry climate, and when he visits New York there is always a pilgrimage to Tarallucci E Vino, on 18th Street, between 5th Avenue and Broadway. Whether stopping in for a meal, coffee, or an aperitivo here’s why this restaurant is a perennial favorite.
Whether breakfast, lunch, dinner, or an espresso at the bar there are always Italians in this place. A clear sign of quality, not to mention good looking men.
The menu changes seasonally and all baked goods are homemade on premise for quality and taste. I could easily start with dessert, a perfect Tiramisu, a selection of homemade gelato or Nutella on Sweet Brioche. But entrees as the Tagliatelle with Fresh Salmon, Zucchini and Bottarga and the Gnocchi in Duck Sauce make dessert worth waiting for.
Lunch includes a large selection of classic paninis, fresh salads (try the Baked Mackerel with Grilled Artichokes and Orange Zest) and pasta dishes. While the dinner menu offers a wider selection of appetizers, main entrees, and assorted cheese and cured meat plates. Don’t miss the Eggplant, Tomato, and Stracciatella di Mozzarella Bruschetta, the House Smoked Pork Check Tortelli with Braised Rabbit and Shavings of Grana Padano cheese, or the Rack of Lamb with Fava Beans, Roasted Vine Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Oregano.
And from Nero D’Avola to Montepulciano, the large selection of domestic and international wines will satisfy the most demanding enthusiast.
The open dining space has a relaxed atmosphere. Two long wood communal tables balance the surrounding black banquettes that are lined with intimate cafe tables. The dining space is flexible throughout the day, accommodating clients who are dining and those who are passing through for a coffee or an aperitivo, a rarity in New York restaurants.
When full, especially at night, the dining room can get noisy. But in warm weather the small terrace is a pleasure, except when the fire trucks across the street are called for an emergency.
Prices are reasonable for New York but dinner can easily reach $70 a person with an appetizer, main course, dessert and wine.
Let me know what you think.
Enjoy!
Leslie
Tarallucci E Vino – 15 E 18th Street, Tel (212) 228-5400
TAGS: Eating & Drinking, New York
