The Weekly Eater: 11/03 - 11/16
Each Monday going forward, I'm going to give you, my dear readers, a recap of where I ate during the prior week, and a list of where I have plans to dine this week.
Saturday, 11/08: Dinner at Malatesta Trattoria
You can't beat this trattoria's charming West Village locale, hugging the corner of Washington and Christopher Streets. Once inside, enjoy the dimly-lit romantic atmosphere and friendly Italian waitstaff. A fantastic meal begins with a gratis plate of homemade focaccia, followed by menu standouts such as the Tagliatelle Al Ragu (handmade fettuccine-like noodles topped with a velvety tomato sauce and ground beef). Decent Italian wine list. Cash only. 649 Washington St., 212-741-1207
Sunday, 11/09: Dinner at Momofuku Ssam
What adjectives come to mind when you hear the words, "East Village?" I immediately think, "Hipster, rock, cool, mish-mash, New York." And what better neighborhood for the uber-hip Momofuku chain to to reside in? The last time I visited Ssam, I was with my ex nibbling off of his plate, kicking myself that I didn't order something of my own. When I was dining at Ssam this Sunday evening, I made sure to make up for lost times. Momofuku's modern space is a bit small and packs up quickly after opening. The background music is one or two decibels away from being deafening and the only soft drink on the menu is root beer, but the food is so good that all of these minute details can definitely be overlooked. Momofuku Ssam's concept is the use of locally, farm raised food to create an American/Korean fusion menu. Sounds complicated, but the finished product is simply outstanding. Menu highlights included: Seasonal pickles, Steamed pork buns (pork belly, hoisin, cucumber, scallions), Satur Farm's fried Brussels sprouts (mint, scallions, fish sauce vinaigrette), Blondie pie and the PB&J dessert with concord grapes and Saltine panna cotta.
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Until we eat again,
Lindsay, The Lunch Belle