The Native New Yorker

Cafe Cortadito - Coming Soon

2013-04-06T09:25:00.001-07:00

AlMayass

2013-03-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

The first Armenian-Lebanese inspired restaurant has finally landed in Manhattan. Alas, it is about time! Since its birth in Beirut, Almayass has expanded in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, and affiliated ownership in Los Angeles. It is truly a delight being in the space listening to customers from table to table speaking Armenian. The dining room seems to be filled with multigenerational families of six or more sharing the ambulance of hot and cold mezze options (mediterranean tapas). Known in Armenian cuisine as a delicacy, the Mantee Traditional $15 features "oven based artisan made boat shaped ravioli filled with seasoned fresh ground beef served with fresh garlic yogurt sauce topped with sumac" (shown above in the right hand corner). Out of the entrees the Yogurt Kebab $26 reins supreme. The least enjoyable option of the night was the Almayass Delight entree with marinated fillet mignon cubes with Almayass special sauce $17 - the entree was painfully small and the least tasty out of the bunch. Yet overall the restaurant experience was certainly unique and enjoyable. All in all it is sincerely worth recommending.

LOCATION: 24 East 21st Street (Between Broadway & Park Ave)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (6) (N,R) (F,M)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.almayassnyc.com

David Burke Kitchen - Restaurant Week

2013-01-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

( OR )

David Burke Kitchen is the perfect choice for restaurant week. Unfortunately many higher-end restaurants change their menus to less desirable options to pass off the three courses - $38 deal. Luckily, David Burke Kitchen is not one of them. With generous portions and bold American farm to table dishes, the menu stands predominately true to the original and entrees alone cost nearly $32. The food is delicious and the service happens to be exceptional.

LOCATION: 23 Grand Street (Between Thompson Street & 6th Ave)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (A,C,E) (1)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.davidburkekitchen.com

Scarpetta

2013-01-25T13:54:00.000-08:00

If you’ve ever watched Chopped on the Food Network, you can recall Chef Scott Conant. Since he seems to command perfection from contestant on his show, one would wonder what a meal would be like at his highly rated restaurant, Scarpetta located in the Meatpacking District.

Without reservation you are likely to sit in the front bar room with a few small stool seated tables allowed for walk-ins. The main dinning room hosts a more intimate vet expansive vibe. While you ponder the menu enjoy the breadbasket of delicious house-made focaccia and house-made stromboli stuffed with smoked mozzarella and salami, which are accompanied by citrus infused olive oil, roasted eggplant caponata and mascarpone butter for additional flavoring.

The food certainly lives up to the hype. The polenta appetizer and spaghetti entrée are definitely the crowd pleasers. Watch the video above to get the full scoop on the spaghetti & basil recipe. While Scarpetta will certainly leave a dent in your wallet the meal and experience is unquestionably worthwhile.

LOCATION: 355 West 14th Street (Between 8th & 9th Avenue)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (A,C,E) (L) (1,2,3)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.scarpettanyc.com

Smush “The NY Deli of Desserts”

2012-10-19T11:57:00.001-07:00

Shown Above: 2 Oreo cookies, chocolate ice cream, sliced swirl fudge, bananas, marshmallow spread

Smush is a pop up shop located across the street from Bryant Park that has elevated the traditional ice cream sandwich with their play on the traditional deli concept. Instead of bread = loaf shaped cookies - Instead of meat - ice cream, Instead of cheese = homemade fudge, Instead of toppings = pretzels, strawberries, bananas..., Instead of condiments = marshmallow fluff, nutella, caramel...and the list goes on. Create your own or choose from eight signature creations.

LOCATION: 28 West 40th Street (Between 5th & 6th Ave)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (B,D,F,M) (S) (7)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.gotsmush.com/

Sorella

2012-10-19T11:04:00.001-07:00

Sorella is a small Italian wine bar and eatery located on Allen Street in the lower east side. The decor takes a minimalist approach utilizing dim lit candles and the small glass roof in the back room to set the tone. Service is enhanced or hindered depending how you perceive it, by the small glasses which require continuous refill sip after sip.

Upon suggestion from the waitress, the first course of the night was the Pate di Fegato (duck fat english muffin bread, chicken liver mousse, fried egg, bacon). While highly recommended and aesthetically pleasing, the over bearing taste of the mound of mousse made this dish the lowest ranking of the evening. Fast forward to the entrees. Both shown on the top tear above the Gnocchi - Casterlrosso cream sauce, brown butter pears and chives ($13) along with the Tajarin - Lamb ragu, black pepper ricotta, pistachio, mint ($15) were certainly worthwhile.

After "you think you are full" stumble next door to the gelato take out window where everything down to the toppings are homemade.

LOCATION: 95 Allen Street (Between Delancy & Broome Street)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (F) (B,D) (J,M,Z)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.sorellanyc.com

Apizz

2012-10-05T15:02:00.002-07:00

With countless Italian restaurants in New York City it is easy to fall into the mediocre trap of thinking "I could boil water and do this myself". It's places like Apizz (pronounced ah-beets) that stop you in your track and remind you that dining can be an experience rather than a quick bite. Tucked away on a side street in the lower east side, the restaurant provides intimate seating for small groups with great views of the rustic brick oven often utilized. Without questions asked, fresh bread with homemade sauce and ricotta cheese are brought to the table while you contemplate the homemade options.

LOCATION: 217 Eldridge Street (Between Stanton & Rivington Street) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (F) (J,Z)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.apizz.com

ABC Kitchen

2012-10-05T13:40:00.001-07:00

ABC Kitchen has succeeded in building a strong reputation over the years catering mostly to New Yorkers and tourist alike. So much so, that it has been ranked #18 under the most popular restaurants rated in the 2012 Zagat guide. Interestingly enough, the waitstaff swears business booms in the winter as apposed to the summer since there isn't the option of escaping to the Hampton's.

The restuarant stands by a farm to table approach using local seasoned ingredients hence the menu changes season to season. The only perminant option: the salted caramel-peanut butter ice cream sundae with candied popcorn, whipped cream and chocolate sauce (shown above). It's all truly delicious, no further description needed. Also known to please are the restaurants whole wheat pizza's which are the perfect appetizer for 2 to share before entrees arrive.

Keep in mind, ABC Kitchen isn't the type of restaurant you walk into and expect to be seated. The restaurant is almost always booked completely with only two tables for walk-ins with a predictable +30 minute wait. Word of advice, make your reservation in advanced.

LOCATION: 35 East 18th Street (Between Broadway & Park Ave) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6) (L) (N,Q,R)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.abchome.com

Momofuku Milk Bar

2012-09-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

Momofuku Milk Bar is a small bakery with a big reputation, thanks to David Chang - Chef and Owner of the Momofuku conglomerate. It surely is not your typical bakery . Take the Compost Cookie (shown above) for example which is prepackaged with the kitchen sink of random ingredients such as pretzels, potato chips, coffee, oats, butterscotch and chocolate chips. Yum!

LOCATION: 251 E 13th St (Between 2nd & 3rd Avenue) - $

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6) (L)

MORE INFORMATION: http://milkbarstore.com/main/

Meatball Obsession

2012-05-09T12:55:00.001-07:00

Remember when the cupcake craze broke out? Well, right now the good ol' fashion meatball has graced us with it's presence. First it was The Meatball Shop and then, The Meatball Factory came into the picture this past March which caused some competition. Now, owner of Meatball Obsession, Daniel Mancini dares to enter into the scene with a meatball establishment that offers fast service with a walk up window. Numerous press have seemed to respond favorably.

Choose your selection of meatball(s), then choose your style: whether in a cup or in a pocket and then, pick your topping. The "Sunday Sauce" is served with the meatballs is deliciously tangy, sweet and satisfying. While the mozzarella pearl topping was not memorable and lacked significant flavor, the side of bread offered a great tool to soak up the extra sauce. Try the crispy pasta topping which adds a nice texture to the mix. The best meatball of the three and most popular appears to be the beef meatball in a cup and the majority of costumers appear to get a double. It is delightful to have a different option other than the typical Mexican, Chinese and Japanese take-out.

LOCATION: 510 Avenue of the Americans (Between 13th & 14th Street) - $

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2,3) (L) (F,M)

MORE INFORMATION: www.meatballobsession.com

Starbucks Frappuccino Happy Hour!

2012-05-02T16:01:00.000-07:00

Gorilla Cheese

2012-05-01T16:19:00.001-07:00

At first glance, the Gorilla Cheese sandwiches seem to be mediocre at best. There appears to be nothing "special" about the grilled cheese sandwiches and they are served in a white paper bag. Although there are an array of different options, the draw for the majority of costumers are the already established specialty sandwiches. The most popular sandwich is the #5: Smoked Gouda with BBQ Pulled Pork & Onions on Wheat Bread (shown above). It is commendable to see Gorilla Cheese try to elevate an American classic sandwich and yes, the sandwich is tasty - but their is a but...the sandwiches are a little skimpy when it comes to adding the cheese. Word of advice, ask for extra cheese please~!

Interested in forming your own opinion?

Visit www.gorillacheesenyc.com to locate the truck - $

Food Truck Festival - Saturday, May 5th

2012-04-30T17:46:00.002-07:00

Ticket Prices Vary - Purchase a ticket @ http://www.mexfestnyc.com/

"New York City is known to be the food mecca of the world with countless restaurants for foodies to enjoy. However, one cannot be a true foodie without taking it to the street and enjoying the gourmet food truck scene in NY. Food trucks are all the craze around the nation, but it all starts in NYC where the cream of the crop constantly roams and features an unparalleled selection of unique cuisines. There's something about walking up to one of these mobile eateries, ordering one of their signature eats, and grubbing right on the street that makes it a unique experience that every New Yorker enjoys. With that in mind, iAdventure decided to save you the leg work and gathered all the top NYC food trucks and offer them to you at one event!"

-Mex Fest

Food Trucks Scheduled To Attend Are:

* = written about in the native new yorker

* LUKE'S LOBSTER
TREATS TRUCK
KIMICHI TACO

COOLHAUS
FRITES' N' MEATS

* GORILLA CHEESE

SCHNITZEL & THINGS

* WAFELS & DINGES

TAIM

MOBILE MILK

TRUCKKEVIN SLUSH

* SOUVLAKI GR

MEXICO BLVD

EDDIE'S PIZZA

BIG D'S GRUB

Cafeteria

2012-04-29T14:25:00.002-07:00

Old faithful Cafeteria. Open 24/7. If the location looks familiar it is probably because you have seen it on a range of different screens including the HBO series, Sex and The City. It is the type of place that is frequented by tourists, New Yorkers and C list celebrities who “don’t want to be seen”. The wait might be long and the service is definitely below par but the ambiance and food lives up to the hype. The best dish hands down is the “Mac Attack” which is a tasting of three different Mac & Cheeses (bacon & gouda, truffle, regular). Even if you are not a soup person, the thick and creamy tomato soup with a taste of a mini grilled cheese is absolutely spectacular.

LOCATION: 119 7th Avenue (Between 17th & 18th Street) - $$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2) (F,M) (A,C,E)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.cafeteriagroup.com

Stand4

2012-04-29T12:31:00.002-07:00

The Stand4 slogan, "the rare well-done burger restaurant". Cleverly put Stand4, but the real draw is undeniably the shakes...especially the Toasted Marshmallow Shake. The dessert has even been featured by Iron Chef Michael Symon on The Food Network Show, The Best Thing I Ever Ate. During the Sugar Rush episode, Iron Chef Symon devours three of the shakes during the taping. The Native New Yorker would have to agree - the Toasted Marshmallow Shake is quite addicting.

LOCATION: 24 East 12th Street (Between 5th Ave. & University Place) - $$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6) (N,Q,R) (L)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.standburger.com

Butter Restaurant

2012-04-29T08:24:00.004-07:00

Dining at Butter Restaurant is primarily renowned for the experience as opposed to the cuisine. The innovative modern restaurant transports costumers to the most elegant looking cabin with birch trees surrounding the downstairs space. For those who watch Chopped on Food Network, Judge Alex Guarnaschelli is the Executive Chef at the upscale eatery.

For first time costumers, try the Cavatappi Pasta with Spicy Lamb Sausage to start. Following the appetizer, continue the meal with the tender Hudson Valley Duck Breast which is undoubtedly one of the most popular entrées. If room permits, the Raspberry Beignet with vanilla dipping sauce is certainly a heavenly fan favorite.

LOCATION: 415 Lafayette Street (Between 4th Street & Astor Place) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,6) (N,R)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.butterrestaurant.com

Pasticceria Rocco

2012-04-29T07:40:00.002-07:00

Family owned and operated since 1974, Rocco's is the epitome of a traditional Italian Bakery. Walking into the linear space, large glass showcases display a selection of widespread classic treats along the left of the bakery. A selection of tables are available across from the displays as well to the back of the shop, yet most costumers tend to get their dessert on the go. Why wait to indulge? Keep in mind prices are a little high and they are not shown so it can be difficult to gauge how much you are sending without consulting the staff.

A suggestion: although Rocco's turns out delicious treats, stick to the classics when it comes to ordering. The cannoli's are stuffed to order so they are always fresh. A personal favorite, the Rocco's eclair which is perfectly stuffed with a custard filling. Or try Rocco's world famous Sfogliatelle which is a dry dessert that is a crispy layered pastry with their special ricotta and semolina filling.

LOCATION: 243 Bleecker Street (Between Carmine & Leroy Street) - $$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (A,B,C,D,E,F,M) (1)

MORE INFORMATION: http://www.pasticceriarocco.com

Perfect Pasta Dough

2012-03-15T21:17:00.002-07:00

* MAKE SURE TO DRY THE PASTA SO THAT PIECES DON'T STICK TOGETHER *

Perilla

2012-03-08T03:23:00.048-08:00

It is seldom that culinary reality show winners receive great attention following their departure from the cameras. Unfortunately, the majority of these chefs fall under the radar with the shared dream to someday open their own empire of restaurants like the judges they truly admire. Luckily for eager costumers, this cycle has not been the case for Harold Dieterle who became the first Top Chef champion in 2005. Opening up his very own restaurant in 2007, Perilla has become an instant success. Located in Greenwich Village, the eatery embodies a casual neighborhood vibe with only 18 small tables surrounding the narrow space.

Perilla serves seasonal American food. While the menu regularly changes, there is one signature item that costumers tend to gravitate towards – the spicy duck meatballs. Although the dish is certainly delicious, the homemade gnocchi with braised short ribs happens to knock the other appetizers out of the park. For an entree, try the hanger steak with sun choke creamed spinach....Needless to say its no surprise, Chef Harold knows what he is doing in the kitchen.

LOCATION: 9 Jones Street (Between 4th Street & Bleecker Street) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (A,B,C,D,E,F,M)

MORE INFORMATION: www.perillanyc.com

Craftbar

2012-03-02T09:18:00.007-08:00

Acclaimed award winning chef, Tom Colicchio, has established an empire through his fine dining restaurants: Craft, Craftbar, Craftsteak, Riverpark and Colicchio & Sons. Craftbar (shown above) offers New American cuisine with a simplistic twist utilizing fresh ingredients. With fair size portions the flavors are bold and pure. No need for explanations as these mouth watering pictures speak volumes.

LOCATION: 900 Broadway (Between 19th & 20th Street) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6) (N,R,Q)

MORE INFORMATION: www.craftrestaurantsinc.com

Insomnia Cookies

2011-11-29T21:48:00.001-08:00

Insomnia Cookies is intoxicatingly delicious. You know it’s the real deal when you’re in conversation about the spot and the stranger in front of you turns around to give you not one…but two thumbs up. Yes, take the hint that it is worth checking out. The cookies are top notch and only sold for a mere $1.25. Splurge for the superior option and get the Deluxe Cookies only $2.25. Try the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookie with thick chunks of Reese’s Pieces or the S’mores Deluxe with bits of Marshmallow and Cookie Chips tucked inside. For true traditional chocolate lovers, indulge in the Triple Chocolate Chunk Cookie oozing with chocolaty goodness. Insomnia Cookie truly caters to the munchie crowd. The bakery is open until 3:00am daily and makes deliveries to costumers untill 2:30am in the morning.

LOCATION: 50 West 8th Street (Between Mac Dougal St & Avenue of the Americas) - $

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2) (A,B,C,D,E,F,M) (L)

LOCATION: 405 Amsterdam Avenue (Between 79th & 80st Street) - $

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2) (A,B,C)

MORE INFORMATION: www.insomniacookies.com

Luke's Lobster

2011-11-25T18:55:00.001-08:00

Luke's Lobster has been highly praised as the creme deal creme of Lobster Rolls in Manhattan. The seafood eatery has over time grown to three store fronts throughout town churning out roll after roll daily. Unfortunately, like a child who learns that Santa is but a figmant of his imagination, the rolls are not as heavenly as they claim. While the lobster meat is plentiful and served cold with spices and a touch of mayo, the true downfall lies in the puny thin hot dog bun that tastes like garlic bread. Surprisingly, the New England Clam Chowder is the best dish served. Although the clam meat and potatoes are cut into minuscule chunks, the overall soup consistency and rich creamy taste stems true to what a traditional New England Clam Chowder should.

LOCATION: 93 East 7th Street (Between 1st Ave & Avenue A)

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6) (F) (L)

LOCATION: 242 East 81st Street (Between 3rd & 2nd Avenue) - $$.5

NEAREST TRANSIT: (4,5,6)

LOCATION: 426 Amsterdam Avenue (Between 80th & 81st Street) - $$.5

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2) (A,B,C)

MORE INFORMATION: www.lukeslobster.com

Morandi Restaurant

2011-11-25T09:34:00.000-08:00

HANSEL AND GRETEL'S COTTAGE?

Owner Keith McNally is no stranger to the restaurant industry. With highly regarded award winning restaurants like Balthazar and Patis, McNally’s New York City eateries cater to the casually chic Euro crowd. Morandi in Greenwich Village amplifies the same posh vibe with a rustic Italian twist. Narrow brick archways with exposed brick walls and petite wooden tables set the tone for the intimate dining experience. Arrive during happy hour to find the stylish energetic crowd and a bar packed with socials and models alike. The crowd is beautiful.

The food is secondary to the atmosphere yet the evening menu is straightforward and reliably delicious although it is difficult to peg one dish as the standout. The most recent draw seems to be the weekend brunch receiving great praise. Try the Fazzoletti di ricotta - ricotta fritter ($13) or the Fazzoletti di ricotta - crepes with lemon, ricotta & strawberries ($13) both dishes shown above. Arrive during the week and some dishes are marked nearly 40% off the brunch menu. But let’s face it, the vast majority of New Yorkers don’t have the time or drive to get out for breakfast on a weekday. The evidence? Check your local Starbucks, no wonder the lines are so long.

LOCATION: 211 Waverly Place (Between 10th and Charles Street) - $$$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (1,2,3), (A,B,C,D,E,F,M)

MORE INFORMATION: www.morandiny.com

Prosperity Dumpling

2011-11-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

Is it cheap? Definitely. Is it completely sanitary? Well...Maybe not. Is it delicious? Without a doubt. Prosperity Dumpling in the heart of China Town is the epitome of the best bang for your buck. With an occupancy of less than 10 people, the dumpling dive is not the type of place to sit and linger. Behold the satisfying bundles of joy come in a small styrofoam container 5 dumplings for $1. Start the feast with the #4) Chives & Pork Fried Dumplings and finish with the thick, dense and doughy #15) Sesame Pancakes.

LOCATION: 46 Eldridge Street (Between Hester & Canal Street) -$

NEAREST TRANSIT: (B,D) (F) (J)

Wafels & Dinges

2011-11-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

A big corporate consultant at IBM, Thomast DeGeest, gave up his career to start a new venture. Today DeGeest is known as the "The Wafel King of New York" and locals and tourist are flocking to the Wafels & Dinges yellow truck to take a bite out of his success. Covered in every major publication under the sun - from New York Times to Food & Wine to MSNBC - it's safe to say DeGeest has made his mark.

LOCATE THE FOOD TRUCK VISIT: http://www.wafelsanddinges.com/location.html - $