Few of my Favorite Things

Living in a new part of NYC is almost like moving to a completely new city. There are new boutiques, restaurants, bars, cheese stores and pastry shops. So this post is dedicated to my new favorite spots in the East Village.

1. Raines Law Inn - Speakeasy's in NYC can be pretty pretentious but Rainies Law Inn is definitely not. I met a colleague here for a quick chat the night of Joe's birthday and loved it so much that I made Joe cancel dinner to come meet me for a drink (or two). Their drink menu is very unique and they make excellent drinks! I have a secret love for dirty martini's and they made one of the best ones I have ever had. Definitely going back here soon.
2. Mercadito Brunch - I think I have blogged about this place before as they have amazing tacos. Joe had some friends in town for Halloween and made a reservation to go here for brunch. They have a great deal where you get one entree with all you can drink beverages for $25. So if you plan on having at least two drinks it is a great deal!
3. Brindle Room - This place has a very unique American menu. I went here with a friend and we ordered three spreads and the chicken entree. The spreads are very delicious and served with potato chips and olive oil baked bread. We got the steak tartar, roasted eggplant and artisanal cheese. All very delicious and this place has a super cute ambiance. Joe and I are checking out the Brindle Room for brunch this weekend and I can't wait!
4. Dieci - A lot of places in NYC have a prix-fixe menu and Dieci has a fantastic one. Since this is a Japanese Tapas restaurant, it includes edamame, potato gratines, sashimi, a duck dish and homemade gelato. And of course we ordered pork buns on the side! All were absolutely delicious.
5. Balade - Joe and I checked out Balade (Lebanese food) one random day after work when we were wandering around the neighborhood. This was around 6pm so the place was pretty empty which worried us a little but when we ordered the hummus and shawarma sandwiches we were completely blown away and by the time we left the place was packed. Really great food! This is the one place Joe and I get delivery from quite a bit. Our recommendations include the hummus, falafa pita pizza, and the shawarma.
6. Russo Mozzarella & Pasta - Joe is a true Italian boy thick and thin! And he now has died and gone to heaven because there is a mozzarella store about 20 steps from our apartment. He often picks up a mozzarella ball, a half pound of prosciutto, bread and a tomato for dinner. Probably the most refreshing dinner you can ask for. They also have homemade pasta which we will sample soon as the weather gets colder.

I hope to start checking out some boutiques so I can write a post about that :)

Cheers!