NYC Tastes

Gourmet burgers, skinny fries dusted with salt and great craft beer- it's time for lunch at Lupulo.  This Portuguese restaurant by George Mendes is quickly becoming one of my favorite spots in the city.  In addition to the piping hot Salt Cod Croquettes and spicy Piri-Piri Chicken is a special burger available only during late night hours and lunch- the "O Hamburguer". Two Pat La Frieda patties, a fatty blend of brisket, short rib and chuck layered with rich Sao Jorge cheese, beefsteak tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and smoked mayo on a seeded bun. I asked for it medium rare but it arrived closer to medium, always my biggest gripe with thin patties. However the beef managed to retain its juice and those delicious house made pickles, spicy mayo sauce and long, golden fries bumped this dish into the upper echelon of burgers.  It's like having the best Whopper meal of your life. A teku filled with Grimm Awoogah on the side and my happiness quota has reached full ca...

The space at 6th Avenue and 29th Street has been like a revolving door of restaurants over the past 10 years but I think it may finally have a permanent tenet.  Chef George Mendes from Michelin-starred Aldea opened this spot last year focusing on rustic Portuguese food and craft beer.  Lupulo actually means "hops" in Portuguese and the ever changing tap list pays homage to that name. Everything from the rich malty stouts of Alesmith Brewing to bright hoppy IPA's from Hill Farmstead and salty Goses of Westbrook have been known to make an appearance.  The bartenders are more ready to answer any questions and will happily pair beers along with your meal as well. The menu changes along with the tap list but you can expect delicious Portuguese fare like spicy Red Snapper Cru with fermented serrano chili in a coconut milk kaffir-lime broth.  Hot, crispy Salt Cod Croquettes with piri piri mayo... ...and a gorgeous dish...