Noon (Farsi for Bread)

On my most recent trip to New York City, I came across a warmly lit restaurant named Tamarind. From my view standing on the sidewalk of 22nd st., this small establishment reminded me of a quaint and quiet wine bar. I invited myself in and set my things down at the bar. After ordering a pomegranate martini, I walked towards the restroom in the back. This is when I realized I was not in a wine bar at all; rather Indian restaurant and bar. I was so excited!

The smells of the rich and flavorful spices used in traditional Indian cooking were overwhelmingly enticing. I noticed a large glass wall to my right and looked over to find the kitchen in clear sight. What I then saw through the glass was perfectly rounded dough sitting on top of a waist-high clay oven. Homemade bread!! Once back at the bar, I asked the bartender about their fresh bread. He told me they have an entire portion of their menu dedicated to Roti (Roti is the name for unleavened breads in India). He pointed out his favorite; Pudina Paratha: Mint flavored oven baked bread with a butter glaze. I could not resist. *Note - all employees seemed to be Indian and speak the same language, which adds to the authenticity for me.

The bread came out fresh from the oven, directly onto my plate. It was cut into small triangles and sprinkled with fresh, dried mint leaves with a light and savory butter glaze. In the center of my plate was a yogurt and tamarind dip that was a nice, subtle combination with the bread. I chose to pair this with a salad of fresh greens served with mango, pea shoots, red and green grapes with a lime and pomegranate dressing. I could taste the pomegranate in the dressing as if I was drinking the juice from the fruit itself.

Although this may seem like just bread and salad to some, for me it was so much more. The flavors of mint and pomegranate, in addition to the freshly baked flat bread, bring me right back to my Persian roots. I could not have asked for a more satisfying meal.

A Bottle of Red...

I have not been inspired to write for some time, as I had not come across food that has wowed me in awhile. However, I think what I was needing was some variety. Something different than what I am used to being served or serving. Thus, during a trip to visit one of my favorite people to eat with in Brooklyn, when asked "what do you want to eat?" I gave thoughtful consideration to what I have been missing in my life. I decided not only have I been missing authentic Italian food but when in New York City...

Frankie's is everything you want in an Italian restaurant. Modestly set on Court St. in Brooklyn, its small and warm entrance stands out among brownstones and storefronts and draws you right in. The interior is cozy and the low lights and rich wood exemplify this, yet with true simplicity. There are a few tables right as you walk in next to a window looking out onto the street. A long bar separates the front from the back of the restaurant where there are just a few more tables. We sat in the front looking out onto the street. The menu is very simple as are the ingredients. To my delight, there are no heavy sauces, overly breaded foods, and the menu states that locally grown foods are used as much as possible. I already love this place.

We start with a cheese board appetizer which allows us to select from a menu of eclectic cheeses. The board comes with small portions and a few bite-size crustinis, which is perfect because it tastefully warms your appetite. For dinner, I ordered one of the house specials: cavatelli with hot sausage and sage butter. I have never had cavatelli and did not know what to expect of a seemingly simple dish. Yet, once I tasted this meal so many fresh flavors harmoniously melted in my mouth. The pasta was homemade and actually melted in your mouth. The butter was very lightly tossed on the pasta and infused with the aroma and taste of fresh sage. The sausage was also light, fresh, and perfectly spiced. This was, by far, the best pasta dish I have ever had. This amazing experience was enhanced with a great bottle of red wine and a thoroughly enjoyable conversation with one of my closest friends. I could not have asked for a more enjoyable evening.