nativeNYer's Profile
Is there ANY decent pizza on the UWS?!
I agree on Sal and Carmine and City Pie as the best we have for regular, grab a slice pizza on the UWS.
Here's my two cents on Fratelli la Bufala:
As a resident, I had been looking forward to their opening. I am hoping they read their reviews because I'd like to see them improve.
After we were given a 20 minute wait estimate around 8pm on their 2nd night in business, we waited outside near the door. We were told by others waiting that there was a plate of samples on the counter inside . My friend and I walked in to snag a bite. When my friend very sweetly asked the heavy-set man behind the counter, who was kneading the dough, if these were samples, he glared at us in a way that was scarier than the zombies we saw in the film A Cabin in the Woods later that night. He was downright cold, bitter and nasty. It was so blatantly inappropriate that it was shocking. When my friend politely repeated and pointed at the plate, he glared again and then finally brought himself to say (very nastily), "No English". Okay, now. A welcoming gesture and nod, with arm stretched to motion, "Please help yourself" would have been nice.
So we went back outside (yes, to wait) thinking we can't give up on the place based on one nasty person but someone should have really sent him home because he clearly did not belong there in the window as the first person customers see when they pass by and/or walk in. Maybe just having a bad day.
After waiting well over 30 minutes, we asked for the status of our wait and were told they had already called us?!!?! That could not have been possible b/c we were all standing outside, near the door with the other customers and there weren't that many waiting. Mistakes happen. Not a problem.
We were seated (very tight spot as all tables are placed very close to each other), and were promptly given menus and water. We sat for quite a bit of time until a nice gentleman next to us heard us review our menu selections. "They are only serving pizza and salad," he said. "Yup, they didn't tell us either."
I eat out a lot and I've been to many new restaurants. Perfectly fine if they are not yet ready to offer the entire menu but a sign is typically posted on the restaurant's window and/or the entire menu may not be provided (unless unavailable items are marked off) to guests. At the very least, customers are typically told when reserving a table or when they are seated.
So we walked out b/c my friend was craving pasta. I will give them another chance but I really hope their service greatly improves. Based on what others are saying on other websites, it's a genuine problem and, from what I'm hearing and have experienced myself , it is actually far worse than the experiences I've had in other new places. I agree it has potential (based on the menu and food quality) but if the service does not improve, they will never gain a loyal customer base which will likely result in a decline in food quality b/c they will need to cut costs.
What are some good restaurants for solo diners?
I definitely agree with both replies. You can pretty much go anywhere without feeling awkward or forced to sit at the bar/near the kitchen.
Joanne Trattoria (W 68th & Columbus)
I wonder if the Sun-Wed staff is different from the Thurs.-Sat. staff. I guess it would explain the vastly different reviews I've been reading.
Joanne Trattoria (W 68th & Columbus)
Went to Joanne Trattoria on W68th and Columbus last Thursday evening.
menu is here:
http://www.joannenyc.com/1673.html
We walked in at 6pm and, although we did not have a reservation and it was very crowded, they graciously seated us against the high tables along the kitchen counter. Well, we soon learned it was the best seat in the house, although the back room is extremely cozy and I loved the prospect of sitting in their outdoor area when it is warmer.
I immediately felt at home for many reasons (a rarity for me but the aesthetics were just perfect as was the overall vibe) and every staff member was a delight - totally professional and genuinely friendly. We chatted with the very friendly and entertaining kitchen staff as we watched them prepare the meals. They had such a great sense of humor even though they were standing in front of an oven that was set at 598 degrees F. They filled us in about the new, upcoming desserts, tiramisu included.
Art Smith chatted with us several times, and graciously served us our dessert . He was a big presence in the restaurant - chatting with customers and pitching in on the floor.
I can't even think of one negative to say about the service. Water glasses were refilled regularly (with ICE - big plus for me) . They allowed us to linger without any signs of resentment despite the crowds and, when I asked if I could just order a side dish instead of an entree, I was told, without hesitation, that we would never be forced to place a minimum order. It was all perfect, and this was well before the Germonattas walked in and sat at the next table.
Now for the food . The antipasti salad was fabulous - countless little treasures chopped up together onto one plate - veggies, meat and cheese. I never had a salad like this with so much variety. Although we did not order the salumi and cheese board, many people did and it looked amazing and large! The $8 side dish of mac and cheese was probably the best mac and cheese I've had in a very long time, if not ever. They completely agreed with my request to make it crispy and out came a piping hot, white casserole dish of mac and cheese - crispy yet creamy with the perfect balance of flavor, and
a variety of cheese types and cream. It was a large order for a side dish. OH YUM!! I will be back for that, and Iater realized the Germanottas ordered it as well.
My friend ordered the spaghetti and meatballs which was served in a deep, white bowl with a big meatball on top. It was not soaked in sauce. She loved it. Yup, $23 is pricey. I cannot argue that but one could save $7 by ordering the $8 penne pasta side dish and the $8 meatball side dish , served on an adorable cast iron skillet . Few restaurants would offer this less expensive option so another big thumbs up in that respect and, remember, there is no minimum. I was not crazy for the taste of the sauce (although my friend really liked it), more likely because it was different than the sauce prepared in my own Italian household growing up. This doesn't mean it was bad. It's just a personal taste thing with me as I am very finicky about sauce. The meatball was too soft but it was huge and really good otherwise. Bread pudding with bourbon sauce (also ordered by the Germanottas) was beyond amazing and I normally do not eat bread pudding. Oh, and the wood oven-baked focaccia served hot with crispy grated cheese and fresh onions was amazing, and they were very generous with refills. Here's a photo: http://www.foodspotting.com/places/343645-joanne-trattoria-new-york-city/items/519351-chef-art-s-wood-oven-baked-focaccia
It was also nice to chat with Mrs. Germanotta (and offer her an array of well-deserved compliments) who made her rounds and stopped by our table before departing. She also graciously chatted with customers (of all ages) who couldn't resist stopping by their table as they dined.
Quality Italian food is almost non-existent . I am so glad this place opened in my neighborhood. I wish them well and hope their quality, enthusiasm and talents do not decline over time.
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Joanne
70 W 68th St, New York, NY 10023
Excellent new Burger
I need to thank you as well, howdini. Haven't heard of Korzo before reading your post. i've looked at the online pics of the burgers and the fried halusky. Whoaaaa! Will try ASAP, and then I will do a long run the day afterward if I haven't stroked out. :) Thanks!!
Cotillion of Jericho
Ahhh.. so you are, indeed, a regular, mcf! Thanks so much for listing your favorites. Looking foward to stopping by this week.
Cotillion of Jericho
Awesome. These are many of my favorites. Thanks again. I'll report back whenever I go.
Cotillion of Jericho
Thanks, mcf and Scott_R. I am salivating and glad to hear about the heat. How is it on weeknights? I'll give it a try this week, probably closer to the end of the evening. What are your favorite apps and entrees? How's the garlic naan? It was amazing at Cotillion. Thanks again.
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
Heehee. I think several CHers have mentioned the possibility of developing a secret phrase to mumble in a restaurant. Upon hearing the phrase, all CHers will identify themselves. Ya never know when one of us will be lingering in any given restaurant.
I stubbornly kept ordering the chicken as well until I just couldn't any longer. Did you have an opportunity to mention anything to them? The manager on board (he's typically behind the bar) is very nice and eager to please. The place held such promise. I miss the mirch 65 tremendously. You may have been happier with the lamb. It was good but not mind-blowing. I've been using the vinegar to enhance the flavors.
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
We were there last night as well, Deb Van D. Did they tell you they ran out of crispy lamb? We had it. It was good but not outstanding. We are still unable to bring ourselves to eat the chicken for reasons I had described in a previous post. I share your disappointment.
Cotillion of Jericho
Have not yet tried New Chili and Curry but it is on my list. I'll report back when I do. Have you tried it? What do you think?
Cotillion of Jericho
Cotillion has been the first quality restaurant I've encountered with the Chinese/Thai/Indian title.
I've found, just from my experience alone, that those places who do not limit their focus, at least in Manhattan (e.g. Indian/Chinese or Chinese/Thai) have been far less fantastic. Definitely not the case here so, perhaps, I've been too quick to judge.
Cotillion of Jericho
Ahhh... external validation! Phew! This is exactly what we were hoping to hear. The flavors were so sophisticated. Countless thanks for posting these reviews, EZ Pass!
Cotillion of Jericho
I'm a huge fan of Indian Chinese food and, although there is a limited number of restaurants serving this cuisine in the area, one never knows where the craving will be met.
We found Cotillion of Jericho purely by searching online b/c we had a huge craving while on Jericho Turnpike but it was too late to head to our usual places (or even to Hicksville) before closing . So, we decided to take a risk.
When we walked in, there was a huge banquet in the back (it was a Saturday evening) but they have a small, separate room to the left. We nearly walked out, simply b/c of the atypical setting and it's never a good sign if ya see "chinese/thai/indian", but everyone was so nice and the food was amazingly flavorful and authentic. Several families walked in after us to dine and they all seemed like regulars. We've only been there once but are looking forward to returning and also to hearing everyone's feedback if you decide to venture out.
Cotillion of Jericho
440 Jericho Turnpike Jericho NY 11753
info@cotillionofjericho.com
Phone: 516.938.3300 ,516.933.4487
http://cotillionofjericho.com/manu_lo...
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
Here it is but brace yourself for this one. Looking forward to hearing your feedback if you decide to venture out:
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/826983
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
I've seen these Hicksville places listed but have not yet made an effort to try them. But, did stumble across one on Jericho Turnpike (I think) just a couple of months ago. After a quick search, I'm unable to find the name but the food was phenomenal. It is part of a big banquet hall (with a couple of tables to the left after entering an ornate hallway. The restaurant stands alone and there is a big parking lot to the side of the place. This place may have been closer to Syosset and it was near an exit to either the LIE or GCP, I believe. Will post the name on the outer borough board once I locate it as well as any other feedback re these Hicksville restaurants.
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
Looking forward to hearing what you think after trying both. At Tangra, try the chili chicken dry and the Manchurian noodles. Folks like the lollypop chcken, the curry rolls and the fish fingers. I also love the momos here. They are just about the best dumplings I've tasted even after doing two Chinatown dumpling tours.
Chinese Mirch --how hot IS it?
Hi Jim,
I'm still addicted to the flavors here but the food has definitely not been the same for at least a year or two. It seems they have gone through several chefs over the past several years as things have been very inconsistent and rarely as great as it had been years ago. I agree with tex.s.toast's feedback on the noodles. They've never been good. Since 2008, the folks in the NYC location know me as a regular and I try to provide as much feedback as possible.
Something as simple as the momos have completely changed at least three times, but they have since improved. When questioned, they mentioned "using a different supplier" but they expressed an appreciation for the feedback.
The mirch 65 was always my favorite dish but the spices and the quality of the chicken (I almost gag when I think about it) have changed so dramatically that I've stopped ordering this dish. Totally agree with RawTunaFan's take on the chicken. Ugh. I also miss the hot chili oil they've always served. Whenever I've asked for it again, they politely attempt to recreate it but the oil is just not the same in appearance. spice level nor taste.
In mid-September, the crispy szechaun lamb had changed as well - far less flavor but ridiculously spicy (keep in mind I LOVE spicy food), and they also began serving the dish with gravy that did not at all complement the dish, I immediately wrote to one of the owners via facebook after the dish had been served this way for several weeks (needed my addiction) at their NYC location as well as at their Stamford location (which I've only visited once). She immediately replied that she was surprised to hear this b/c "none of the recipes had changed" but she promised to look into it. Two weeks later, when I had returned to their NYC location, the problems with the dish had been completely resolved. But, still, not as good as it had been back in 2008. Luckily, the dish has subsequently remained unchanged since Sept.
But here's some good news. Shortly before the holiday, I stopped in for my usual fix on a Friday evening. The food was so incredibly good (momos and crispy lamb) that I had to mention it to one of the managers. My dinner that evening definitely "excited me anew". :) I was quickly told that the "head chef" is only there on weekends. Whether this chef is new or the former one is unknown. Unfortunately, I typically go on week nights but I will need to return this weekend to determine whether we are in luck. I am keeping my fingers crossed.
I would suggest just giving them as much feedback as possible. If you have access to Queens, try Tangra in Sunnyside or in Elmhurst. Both are a block or two are from the subway system. Amazing food and really nice people.
I will report back this weekend. BTW, anyone hear of any new Indochinese places in Manhattan? It seems this is the only one (how crazy is that!!?!?), since Indo Munch had closed, aside from a small cluster of Indian places that may have several Indochinese selections on their menu but never as good.
One last point. I agree with your take on our perceptions, Jim. It's a very important point b/c I've often found myself questioning my own taste and whether, perhaps, my opinion has been affected by merely frequenting the place too often. But, ultimately, I am aware this isn't true.
Please report back if you go but I would suggest trying it on a Fri. or Sat.
Best,
nativeNYer
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Chinese Mirch
120 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Revelatory new Sichuan restaurant--Legend on 7th Avenue at 15th
I agree but Safran never rose to the same heights as Monsoon. I am still in mourning with cravings. Chef Laura is such a sweetheart with a huge talent. ;(
Revelatory new Sichuan restaurant--Legend on 7th Avenue at 15th
oh thank you for asking that question, uwsister!!! i was the lunatic frantically attempting to search Chef Laura down for years until someone came through for me right here on CH when they hooked me up with safran. i was so happy to see laua that we nearly hugged. she's now MIA again. :(
UWS - Best Places in 90's and 100's?
thank you. i have not yet heard about this place.
UWS - Best Places in 90's and 100's?
ahhhh, i've been to Woorijip several times. since i was somehow once hooked on the dukbokkee sauce at mill, the woorijip dukbokkee didn't win me over. it wasn't at all that it was bad, of course, but it didn't make me want to run back. i think it is just a matter of the taste i had grown accustomed to (for better and worse) and,obviously, not b/c i know any better. do you know of any restaurants where they serve great dukbokkee? i know it's basic street food in korea and not served everywhere.
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Woorijip
12 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001
UWS - Best Places in 90's and 100's?
I really can't disagree with either one of you. Even the duk bok-kee is inedible. I was hooked on that sauce years ago. The rice cakes were always served swimming in it. The flavor is now flat and they practically serve it dry despite repeated requests for extra sauce.
UWS - Best Places in 90's and 100's?
Thanks for reporting back! I'm not a big fan of Tacqueria but I know others who love it. Mill Korean was one of my favorites in that nabe many years ago but, although never authentic, the food quality has declined over the past 10 years. Still worth a try if you are interested in Korean food as there's nothing similar in the area. Enjoy!
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The Mill
2895 Broadway, New York, NY 10025
UWS - Best Places in 90's and 100's?
strongly agree with strangemd and uwsister on the noche mexicana over mama mexico endorsement. no question about it! as uwsister and ann900 stated, "mama mexico is downright terrible" ... "beyond terrible ". very, very true.
love absolute, silver moon and i'd also like to endorse pisticci: http://www.pisticcinyc.com as rteplow recommended below. also,indus valley is not bad.
please report back to us. thanks!
Possible Closings on W72nd St. (Earthen Oven and Fine & Shapiro?)
I agree but, sadly, the quality of the food at this Dallas BBQ is far worse than most of their other locations. Aside from living near this one, I work a block away from another Dallas BBQ. lol. I can usually manage a burger, whenever I am desperate, and their onion loaf is good if prepared correctly, primarily at their other locations,
Lansky, which has never been good for pastrami/corned beef, is not even good in a pinch for comfort food . I've eaten there less than 5 times and, after not eating there in approximately a year, I stopped by on one of the recent monsoon days. Without even being finicky, their food is stale and tasteless, and my server returned 3 times to repeat a very simple order. Ok, at least she tried but this was just plain bad, food and all. It wasn't this bad a year ago.
I am looking forward to Loi as well. Until then, Insomnia Cookies (Amsterdam and W79th) will continue to be my dinner.
Any word on Jalapeno?
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Lansky's Old World Deli
235 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023
Jalapeno
185 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023
Possible Closings on W72nd St. (Earthen Oven and Fine & Shapiro?)
Fine and Schapiro has reopened. In a report on eater.com, Earthen Oven owners stated the restaurant was too expensive to operate.
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Fine and Schapiro
138 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
