Weekend Trajectory

Friday night, I relish staying in... This Friday included, but I did run out for a quick bit at Republic (37 Union Square West) which is great for just that. Although the restaurant doesn't take reservations, and was quite packed, we found a quick spot at the counter. This ambiguously "Asian" restaurant's tagline is fitting- Think Noodles: Fresh, Fast and Affordable. Everything from their small plates, soups to noodle and rice dishes range from $6.00 - $9.00 and are surprisingly tasty without that strange heaviness that is closely associated with Chinese food. Started out with the steamed vegetable dumplings (VERY tasty and not heavy at all) and the spicy seafood salad (which is tangy but not too spicy, and has jicama which really adds something). Our starters were followed by shrimp pad thai (if you see the seafood trend, it was due to Friday night of lent) which was really tasty- a little too much sauce if you ask me, but nonetheless really good, and the glorified miso soup (with soba noodles, tofu, spinach and sprouts) which was nice if you're in a hot soup mood. They also serve decent sake at a reasonable price, again- refreshing. However, the most striking aspect of this restaurant is that for at least 8 years (I know I'm dating myself, but I did try this restaurant nearly a decade ago), they have not changed their prices- impressive, isn't it?
Mark: B-

Saturday night brought me to the Upper East side (I know, I know- but friends will do that to you...), which should be all about Vespa (1625 2nd Ave). Their focus on small plates is appreciated when starting out with dinner, keeping in mind the drinks awaiting you. Great ambiance, generally good service (when it gets really busy, the wait staff gets frazzled), decent wine list (even by the glass), and priced accordingly. I had the seared scallops accompanied by a shaved fennel and arugula salad, adorned with blood orange slices. Really solid- very tasty, cooked well, good size and perfect portion. My friend tried the roasted chicken (that's nearly all she eats, and the only item she will order in a restaurant) which could have used some fingerling potatoes, but she enjoyed it all the same. The tiramisu contained too cream,but the espresso is to die for- imported from Italy, and made just strong enough. All in all, a solid local establishment serving good food, consistently. (It also boasts the new Bar Vespa serving cheese plates, even smaller plates, wine and cocktails- definitely a place you want to check out)
Mark: B

Ode to Sunday... Sunday is also usually a stay-in, cook for the week, prepare lunches, do laundry sort of night, but a special occasion will even get me out on Sunday. So will Po. Jeff's mom loves Mario Batali so I thought Po just the thing. Batali opened this restaurant with others in 1993, and relinquished chef-ownership about 7 years ago (right when he started to blow up on the restaurant scene). However, his menu remains mostly intact. I found this cozy restaurant about 6 years ago when it was written up in Time Out NY's "Best Entrees Under $25," which it can still boast. I have been to Po a number of times and it is never a disappointing meal. I started out with the radiccio, apple, walnut, and gorgonzola salad- there are no surprise ingredients, so if you like all of those things, you're in luck. I will say that there was a tad too much dressing, but that's something I'm particularly sensitive to, so perhaps it was just right for anyone else. The mussels and clams (one of their signature dishes) was unbelievable. The sauce was just a touch spicy and very flavorful. For main course, I selected the porcini-crusted roasted cod. I have ordered this before, and just love it. It comes on a bed of garlic white beans and bok choi. This is a really solid plate, portion is on the smaller side, but you will be surprised how those beans are deceivingly filling. I also tried the Cornish hen, another signature dish. This was an incredible meal- on a bed of Israeli couscous. The robust flavor was decadent, and overall nice to step away from your usual suspects. Although we opted out on dessert, the detailed-oriented staff remembered my note about Jeff's mom's birthday, and brought over a wonderfully rich frozen chocolate bar- almost like a fondant- with a candle. Now that's service! Again, though, the true highlight of the night was the wonderful conversation - even banter, at times - and general comfort that the restaurant's ambiance aided. This is one that should be added to anyone's list.
Mark: B+

As always, Que Aproveche! and enjoy!