sleepdoc's Profile
Has Oleana lost it's luster?
I've only been twice. First was a couple of years back. We walked in to a packed house, ate at the bar and loved the food, wine selection and service.
Since then, we have visited Sofra a couple of times for pastries which have been excellent, as is the coffee. However, we went to Oleana within the last few weeks, with reservations, and had a disappointing experience. We were early, house was empty. We were seated in the section near patio area which lacks decor and features fairly cramped tables. Didn't matter, we came for a great meal. Both ordered the much hyped "vegetarian tasting menu". Very disappointing. It was a smattering of cold and hot appetizers from the menu in smaller portions. Not at all a true tasting menu. Some of the dishes were good, but most seemed like they were probably plated by the server from a vat. No thanks. Wines by the glass selection still seems fairly interesting, but less so than last visit. Service was borderline.
I might try it one more time, and order a la carte, but I was seriously disappointed on my second visit.
Good value tasting menu?
Looking for some good value tasting menus, esp. with wine parings someplace around town. Prefer less fish (rules out O Ya) and someplace not uncomfortably crowded & loud. Was thinking Lumiere in Newton?
Thanks hounds!
(p.s.- I know about Oleana veg mezze option)
Help plan our trip to NYC more inside
Help! Heading to NYC in late December (Fri-Tues), looking for some interesting food experiences. Budget: we are willing to spend a bunch of money for great experiences. Caveats: we don't mind dressing up, but we're suburban young professionals, not hipsters and we don't want to feel out of place in a loud, "sceney" restaurant. Also, sadly, my partner doesn't do seafood.
Thoughts so far, please help with comments or better suggestions:
1. Steak - Peter Luger's Sat night if we can make a reservation, otherwise Keens or Strip House.
2. BBQ - we want to check out some NYC 'que, maybe Daisy Mae's or RUB or Virgil's
3. Korean BBQ - maybe Ma Dang Sui? What's good here? My partner has never had it and we want a good first experience.
4. Peking Duck House - or any better suggestions for this dish?
5. Pizza - Una Pizza Napoletana, Lombardi's or John's; where should we go, don't want to trek to Brooklyn again
6. Other thoughts: Lupa, Babbo, Picholine, Casa Mono/Bar Jamon
Other ideas, especially for unique food experiences? - Thanks!
