Nectar of the Gods

A few weeks back when Buffalo was still fooling itself that summer remained in session, MT and I enjoyed a most delightful date night out on the patio of Bacchus in downtown Buffalo. Bacchus is a seasoned veteran on the 716 dining scene with a decade under its wine-soaked belt and in no way does it show its age!

As I write, I fear my snaps of the night do not truly capture the amazing tastes we were presented with. Each dish was outstanding and worth every shekel shelled out. Bacchus boasts a world-class wine list (anthology is more apropos) and a helpful, unassuming staff to help guide you through.

Cheese plate: choose four was the option. From top center we had Cabot Cheddar, Purple Haze, Saint Andre Triple Cream and Chocolate Stout Gouda. Perfectly accented by the fried pear as I recall. 

Caesar Salad with Parmesan crisp. Rivaled my out-of-body experience of City Winery in NYC!

BLT salad: a snazzy take on the wedge salad. House-made bleu cheese dressing, crispy pancetta, heirloom tomatoes. Home run straight outta the park!

Carbonara gnocchi. This dish was astounding. Creamy carbonara cut by savory pancetta and peas tossed with home-made pillowy gnocchi. MT legit had to take the plate away before I started licking it!

Another angle of the simply magnifique Carbonara. 

While definitely not a spot to hit up on the reg if you're a pleb like myself, splurging at Bacchus will leave you with very satisfied belly and absolutely no spenders' remorse. Truly worth every copper splashed out and one of the top places showcasing Buffalo's culinary greatness!

Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant

56 W. Chippewa St.

Buffalo, NY 14202

716.854.WINE

Dublin You Saucy Minx

If you follow my instagram (extra spirit points if you do), then you probably sussed out that I was in Dublin for about a week at the end of the summer. It's quite amusing now that I seem to be frequenting my second home on a semi-annual basis, seeing as one of the major reasons for moving back stateside was my frequent reverse trips back to the Queen City. I have to say I don't mind it one bit having excuses to fly back such as weddings, MT, holidays, etc. Really if money were no object I would probably spend at least one week per month in the Big Shmoke!

Going back every so often does allow me to "speed date" all the new fun foodie spots, also. Luckily my Dublin gang are all like-minded, or at least indulge me, in checking out new eateries and liquid establishments.

Where am I going with this diatribe? A round-up of my most recent Dublin delectable discoveries, that's where! So here we go.

Look at that juiciness.. and this it not even a good snap!

What: Bunsen with CMc & Nosh lunch sesh
Where: Temple Bar
We Ate: Burgers with cheese (that's their shtick) and shoestring fries
The Verdict: CMc and Nosh... and pretty much everyone else in the Dubs, have been clamoring on about the Bunsen burger. And for good reason. The all-Irish beef patty was juicy, tender with a nice savory aftertaste. I always order a burger with cheese for fear of the beef falling flat, but fear not at Bunsen. I totes get it now. And you should get to Bunsen for a 'ger ASAP. I haven't had a better better anywhere else. FACT.

"Healthy choice"

Baked beans and then some

Look at the joy in my face pouring HC!

What: Brother Hubbard fresh off the plane with MT (holding hands)
Where: Capel Street
We Ate: Home-baked Beans w/ Soft-fried Egg, Whipped Feta & Chorizo, Spelt Pancakes w/ Mixed Berry Compote, REAL Hot Chocolate
The Verdict: Even being ridiculously jet-lagged (legit right off el plane-o) this meal tasted da bomb. I had been planned (and drooling) to go to BH for months, nay YEARS and I finally did. He certainly did not disappoint. Rich tomato and chorizo flavors cut by silky whipped feta with lemon...oh lawd. MT gave an astounding twelve thumbs up for his pancakes, even though they were "healthy spelt". Oh and then the HOT CHOCOLATE. Individual pouring decadent chocolate pots to mix into separate warmed milk. Take me back NOW.

steamed..buns..oh yes

potstickers

Ceviche the way the gods intended

What: Soder+Ko with CMc & SM for ladies of leisure
Where: South Great Georges Street
We Ate: Scallop Ceviche, Pulled Pork Steamed Buns, Sweet Potato Fries, Chicken Potstickers
Verdict: Delicious cocktails set the tone early for the ladies. The ceviche was executed perfectly, tart and fresh. Pork steamed buns were a taste explosion and like nothing I've ever had before! Everyone has a first time with kimchi I suppose. The sweet potato fries got approval from all around with an even hint of truffle. Potstickers were the perfect mouthful... Great space, both in size and decor. Definitely check it out especially if you partook in late-night Dragon debauchery!

Gnocchi so fluffy it'd make you blush

Champs for a reason... or thirty

What: Last call at Manifesto
Where: Rathmines
We Ate: Award-winning Mammy Pizza, Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Verdict: Manifesto has been around for years and has consistently won awards, yet I had never visited until this trip. You feel like you're right in Italy with the ambiance and then you taste the pizza and you are in Italy. There's a lot of amazing Italian spots in Dublin (driven by a vast number of italiano ex-pats!) and therefore a lot of fantastic restaurants. Manifesto I would say is not just one of them, but one that leads the pack.

Oh Dublin, how my taste buds and soul miss you...

Changing up the Game: Marble + Rye Review

The summer of 2015 saw a gamut of new punters to the Buffalo restaurant game, with almost every week one or two big names opening or reinventing food gigs across Western New York.

One of the most highly-anticipated was the entry of the BMFT boys to a brick-and-mortar space on Genesee St. Rumor was the gang was going for dishes completely unlike their Bahn-Mi heavy menu from the truck. Color me interested.

I decided to wait a few weeks to give these guys a try as places often fall majorly flat for me close to opening. I find it's much better for the restaurant, my wallet and most importantly my taste buds if the place can work out it's kinks to give it a proper go.

But I digress.

So the other week I met up with my girl AW for some wine and food at the aforementioned Marble+Rye.

The aesthetic is pretty chic but relaxed at the same time. The bar is definitely the focal point of the room, which hold approx 10-20 tables as I recall. Understated but slick if that makes sense.

Cheeseboard ON POINT

We settled into a cheeseboard with a nice bottle of Malbec before moving on to a few small plates the share.

The cheeseboard was by Nickle City and therefore fantastic. Those 'mongers have got a tight cheese game and restaurateurs are noticing their slam-dunk appeal. Marble+Rye did put their own touch with some killer sweet-potato chips that slide home really nice.

Pasta of the day (can't win 'em all)

Egg burger: no need for cheese here! JUICY

For our sharing plates, we got the pasta of the day: ravioli with seabreem, the egg burger and finished off with a giant sour banana & PB macaron.

Sour Banana & PB Macaron I shall dream of you

The verdict: While the pasta was deliciously fresh, the seabreem filling tasted slightly too smoked or too fishy. The burger nailed it 10/10 proving I can never have enough protein. Similarly, the macaron was scrumptuous with the tasty coffee "dust" ridiculously morish.

Overall, Marble+Rye has really upped the Buffalo food scene. You can tell they are really thinking outside of the box and pushing food boundaries. They may not always hit the mark, but then again you're not really living if you stay in your comfort zone!

Check M+R out, I promise that change is good.

Artsy Buffalo Skyline #sofetch

Marble+Rye

112 Genesee St

Buffalo, NY 14203

NYC Wrap-Up

At the beginning of January I had the fortune of being sent to New York with my day job as mentioned in my previous post from the DrunkenMunkey. The hours were long as expected but I did manage to hit up some old watering holes as well as check out new digs.

Here’s some highlights. I suggest grabbing a snack while you read if you’re at all “peckish”.

What: Delicatessen

Where: SoHo

Who: EP & moi after a very tough day of Sunday shopping

The Food: Goat Cheese Tart topped with a fried quail egg; meatballs with garlic points; lobster mac & cheese; four cheese mac & cheese

Verdict: Standard Soho scene of sensual dim lights with the whisper of celebrity. Food hit the mark on all points of flavor, portion and memorable taste

What: Fika

Where: TriBeca

Who: Solo coffee run after an actual run

The Food: Cappuccino, Salmon salad with hardboiled egg on toasted crostini, two truffles

Verdict: Cool Scandanavian set-up hosting excellent coffee and clean food. The truffles are delicious, though the price-tag may warrant company-card only.

There's wine in the making

Best steak sammy

SMores!

What: City Winery

Where: TriBeca

Who: Solo dining after a late night at the office

The Food: Kale Caesar Salad; Steak Sandwich; Smores with Hazelnut ice cream; washed down with CW’s own Cabernet Franc

Verdict: Best Caesar salad that has ever passed my lips. Live music every night, friendly knowledgeable staff, cozy bar and food that made me miss living, yes actually living in NYC. Truly outstanding. Get there immediately.

What: William Hallet

Where: Astoria

Who: EP & moi

The Food: Grilled cheese with bacon and fried egg; Pastrami with knish and fried egg; mimosa

Verdict: Great brunch spot in an abundance of the breakfast-lunch phenom. Solid service and the type of place you’re curious to see how the end of the brunch turns out.

What: Mole

Where: UES

Who: SP, MH & I

The Food: Guacamole; shrimp ceviche; chorizo and bean tostadas; beef tacos; margaritas

Verdict: Authentic Mexican with killer margaritas. You feel welcomed immediately like one of the family. A diamond in the cold, cold rough of the NYC restaurant scene.

That Martin Sure Can Cook!

A few months back, I visited Martin Cooks during one of their Wednesday “Uncorked & Unseated” nights. MT and I arrived late with only an hour to go but Martin invited us to stay. He refused us to pay the full flat $40 for the unlimited food and wine, and only charged us for the bowls of hearty vegetarian chili (though we drank and ate much more than that). It was such a warm, intimate and fuss-less evening; I couldn’t wait to return.

Alas, Uncorked & Unseated is no more, but MC’s brunch is certainly alive and well! MT was my companion again as we trekked through the snowy West Side last Saturday. Horsefeathers was bustling with the activity from Martin’s and the weekly farmer’s market. We allotted some time to peruse the market as we waited, however the hostess cheerily informed us not to venture far. We were soon seated right in the heart of the action in front of the open-plan kitchen. 

Martin's cooks

Menus placed in front of us, consisting of about eight brunch dishes to choose from and one very tempting flour-less chocolate cake for dessert. Though concise, the menu proved difficult to arrive at a decision. Thankfully, beverages arrived quickly the help lubricate our brains. Not surprisingly, I went for a mimosa which was nicely priced at $6 and excellently proportioned of OJ and bubbles. Fun orange juice indeed! MT sipped on the Whiskey Dick (mwahah), a hefty pour of premium whiskey and a nice, crisp dry cider.

Meat stacks and fun orange juice

As for the mains, I was finally able to decide on the Meat Stack which consisted of two thick homemade meatball patties, cappicola slices and sausage placed gently on a smooth tomato sauce base. The stacks were topped with arugula and two perfectly toasted garlic slices. I was so very pleased with my stacks, and really had to show some self-restraint  to save room for the chocolate cake and to not lick my bowl! MT went with Martin’s double cheeseburger served with potato salad and hot peppers. The cheese:meat:bun ratio was very even, throwing shade on every fast food photographer around. I barely took my third bite before MT was done so I’ll take that as it was delicious!

Sly smile from MT prior to devouring the double cb

This is what heaven tastes like

To finish off our feast, we split the flour-less cake. The cake is what all chocolate cakes dream to be. Nicely dense, with a hint of bitterness and a silky texture made for a wonderful sweet finish. I am a bit of of chocolate snob and rarely order chocolate cake, pies, etc out as I am almost always disappointed. Not last Saturday, and not at Martin Cooks. The experience was so powerful, I had to finish off the meal with a crisp, calming glass of Cava.

A fat and happy smile from yours truly

Martin Cooks brunch was spectacular. There’s a lot of hype on this place since it opened a few years ago, and for good reason. The location, thoughtfulness of the dishes, and overall vibe sets Martin Cooks above the rest. Run, don’t walk next weekend to the West Side! I am literally shaking in my boots for the day I get to splash out for his dinner! 

Martin Cooks

346 Connecticut St.

Buffalo, NY 14213

716.259.9306

Three Little Drunken Monkeys

Greetings from New York! I'm back in the big apple this week with my grown-up job and delving into new and old spots. Being away from the city, I forget just how cool and exciting the food scene is here. I guess I've just been distracted with my own hometown heros as of late!

Drunken Munkey's infamous punch

First up on the list to report back is Drunken Munkey a favorite I've frequented with SP, my partner in crime and former roomie. DM serves up delicous, authentic Indian food alongside a killer cocktail list. The place has great lighting, hilarious monkey-themed decor, wonderfully warm staff and is always packed!

I must admit that prior to last night, I had only sampled their cocktails so I was definitely excited to sample their bombay bites. SP and I ordered chili cheese toast points to start along side our bubbles. I really love how the Munkey serves their drinks in vintage glasses, it's a nice touch of class. The toast was perfectly crispy with a nice kick of heat off the chili.

Nothing like some good cheesy toast!

For mains, I went with the Drunken Munkey Lamb Biryani and SP chose the Butter Paneer Tikka Masala. A word to the wise - bring your appetite! The portions are huge, and the flavors just as big! My Biryani was both rich and nicely spicy with big chunks of tender lamb, all baked in a thin dough. The side yoghurt sauce blended really well to soften some of the heat off those delicious Indian spices. SP was just as happy with her cheese-fest of Paneer.

Beautiful Lamb Biryani

LOOK AT THAT

SP's cheese fest continued

We washed our meals down with DM's seasonal punch with the warm glow of good food and good times on our faces.

Pretty glasses for pretty people

I know I'll be dreaming of that biryani when I'm back in Buffalo in the best way possible. If you're up on the Upper East Side, or heck anywhere in the vicinity of the five boroughs, Drunken Munkey is a must-do!

Drunken Munkey
East 92nd St
New York, NY 10128
646.998.4600

Any Excuse to Make a Big Fuss

Last Wednesday, my bestie KH & I made a big fuss... on a weeknight no less! What am I talking about exactly? Well, an organization called Feed Your Soul, which produces "Buffalo's best culinary events," threw it's fourth-annual Big Fuss party at Artisan Kitchens and Bath in Blackrock. The event is set up as a fundraiser for a local farm each year (the farm in need changes annually). A number of notorious WNY chefs provide food while Community Beer Works, Chateau Buffalo and Lockhouse Vodka quenches thirsts.

The crowd @ Big Fuss

This year, the chosen farm was Prudum Farms from Niagara County, a family business that lost nearly everything in a fire this past spring. They have been able to scrape by since, but much of their core business is still "rubble" we were told on the night. The money raised through Big Fuss will go to help rebuild the farm and the food served... well that will go straight to my waistline and memory as a great experience!

The chefs turned out an amazing spread and really brought their A-game. I was so impressed by the pate crostini from Bourbon & Butter that I decided to book a table for this coming week! It was also really cool that Toutant and BMFT's Marble+Rye premiered some treats, prior to either being open. Needless to say, I'm salivating waiting for both those spots to open up next year.

The Llyod's Taco guys looked to be expanding their repertoire to desserts with their sweet dish of upside down apple pie with an amazing cranberry wafer. Craving, Elm Street Bakery, Lombardo's and my newest obsession The Black Sheep also plated up some fantastic dishes.Check out the pics below for a visual...apologies for the palate envy! So basically all my fav restaurants in Buffalo were all in one location; I obvi had an awesome time!

CrAving chef going at it!

Tender pulled pork biscuit from CrAving

Hashing it up @ Toutant

Please open ASAP Toutant!

ESB's Chicken Liver Pate with brussel sprout leaves

Up close & personal with Lombardo's butternut squash & ricotta crostini

LLoyd's dessert: hoping this becomes a regular menu item on the trucks!?

Marble+Rye's Apple Walnut pie amazingness

All in all the evening was a great success and bonus that it was for a great cause! Can't wait to throw a big fuss next year!

The Black Sheep: Definitely Not the Odd One Out!

In the last year, the Buffalo restaurant scene has absolutely exploded with a number of new ventures. It's an awesome time to be hungry in Western New York and I have been LOVING choosing where to go out to eat! One of these new hotspots is the smartly named Black Sheep on the West Side. I went there a few weeks back with my oldest pal, EH and had a remarkable meal. Honestly, it was one of the best meals I've had in a while, and I'm finding difficulty putting the experience into words!

Here's why:

We were greeted warmly by the hostess and stopped to have a drink at the bar first. Another warm reception there from the bartender, who stood behind the beautiful bartop crafted from the trunk of a tree. EH ordered a zesty Moscow Mule and I, my standard Malbec. We could have stayed at the bar all evening with its perfect lighting and warm smiles all around.

We moved to our table and started to peruse the menu. The Black Sheep keeps it simple, with the selection open for sharing tapas style or ordering individually. Although simple, each option looked uniquely delicious. Alas, as there were only two of us, we had to whittle down and decided to share small plates.

We went with:

Nickle City Cheese Plate: an ample serving of three cheeses accompanied by honey, pickled and fresh pears, plum chutney and crostini

Beets 5 Ways, Did what it said on the tin. We were especially delighted by the roasted beets!

Skin Fritters. Had no idea what chow-chow was but we loved it! Perfectly crispy with a soft, fluffy inside and tons of flavor.

Rabbit with Potato Funnel Cake. The haunch was the right amount of gamey-ness and the potato funnel cake a crunchy revelation!

Pork Confit Peirogi. EH and I have had our fair share of peirogi in our day and we both agreed these took top billing! Unless you're traveling to the homeland you won't find better.

Unfortunately we didn't have room for dessert, but check out the cool menu below! Next time for sure.

I'm so excited that The Black Sheep has joined the ranks in the Buffalo resurgence and I will definitely be back...see for yourself what all the fuss is about and thank me later!! Oh and did I mention they serve a killer bread basket that's sourced locally!? Boom.

The Black Sheep

367 Connecticut St.

Buffalo, NY 14213

716.884.1100