NYC Tastes

When I read the Best of 2018 lists this year, there was one place that appeared in almost every article, Frenchette; a lively little French bistro on the edge of Tribeca. Chef Riad Nasr and Chef Lee Hanson are in the kitchen; a dynamic duo who opened the kitchen of Balthazar together back in 1997. The space exudes a mix of characteristics similar to city's classic French spots; the bright, clean elegance of Balthazar and the cool, bar vibe of Raouls; but it's also decidedly different with a small, simple menu and a casual, laid back style of service. On the weekend lunch menu a rich, smoky Duck Confit served atop a bounty of root vegetables perfect for soaking up all the juicy drippings. A beautiful Brouillade studded with garlic Peconic escargot; a dish that truly showcased the French lust for butter.    Crispy Pomme Frites with an eggy mayo  and a scoop of creamy Salted Caramel Ice Cream for dessert. C'est magnifique! Frenchette 241 West...

After our amazing lunch at La Condesa we toured around that area and then up to Montmartre, a large hill in the 18th Arrondisment known for the beautiful Basilica of Sacre-Couer and the most charming streets in all of Paris. The weather was absolutely perfect, so we spent the day just enjoying the sunshine until it was time to meet up with friends at Bar Hemingway in the Ritz Carlton Hotel. This famous bar where Cole Porter, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Hemingway spent much of their free time was almost exactly as I imagined it;  small but elegant with leather cushioned seats, tiered silver platters on each table and a list of classic Hemingway cocktails including the Picasso Martini, Serendipity and French 75. Of course being such a small, special place the prices fit the atmosphere with cocktails starting at  30€.   I was a little shocked at first, but once I received a lovely peach rose in my drink it seemed slightly justified :)   After the Hemin...