NYC Tastes

My family came in for a quick visit last week and we kicked things off with brunch at Stephen Starr's buzzy restuarnt Upland.   I always enjoy Stephen Starr restaurants.  Even his big spots like Buddakan and Morimoto, while somewhat over the top, always leave me feeling excited. They bring me back to the way I first felt when moving to NYC so many years ago. Upland has very similar characteristics. Although much more laid back than bumping Buddakan his crisp blue and white checkered linens and gorgeous dining room lined with peach filled vases makes an exciting, more refined NYC impression. The brunch menu has a variety of egg dishes alongside pizzas, pastas and sandwiches.  I highly suggest the Quiche Lorraine, a smokey bacon and gruyere stuffed pie that was impossibly light. Two Eggs served with a thick slice of grilled country bread, spicy pork sausage and buttery smashed potatoes. Or for something a bit heartier the Porchetta & Egg Sandwich loaded wit...

It seems like everyone is talking about Chef Justin Smillie's Upland. The newest of the STARR restaurant's to hit the neighborhood was jam packed on a recent Tuesday evening. We barely squeezed our way onto the last bar stools just minutes before the bar area swelled to three people deep and it was only 5:00.  I'm not exactly a big fan of crowds so I quickly ordered a glass of wine and the one dish I wanted to try most Beef Tartare. It's always cool to see the various tartare preparations in the city; here the beef is topped with puffed faro and black trumpet mushroom with egg yolk and anchovy powder on the side.  The farro imparts a spongy texture to the meat while the anchovy brings a salty aquatic flavor that's strangely satisfying. Regardless of sitting in the main room or bar area, each diner receives a small loaf of warm, buttery potato bread that's so delicious on it's own there's no need for the small round of butter. I had t...