3 New Cocktails at DiWine

Here's some exciting news from the Astoria cocktail circle, which continues to expand.  This comes from the cozy 31st Avenue wine bar, DiWine, and I'm excited to report that they're featuring 3 new cocktails this season that are looking mighty delicious.  I hope you have the opportunity to try them and let me know what you think.

The Rhubarb Redford - an earthy and warming bourbon cocktail, consisting of rhubarb infused bourbon, lemon, and Vya Sweet Vermouth

The Southern Pumpkin is making a comeback - with house infused pumpkin spice vodka, bourbon, cinnamon infused simple syrup, and pumpkin puree

Escobar - with Mezcal, amaro, Vya dry vermouth, ginger-lemongrass simple syrup, and lemon

Try these during DiWine's weekly happy hour from Monday - Thursday from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. and get them for $6.

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/M Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

10 New Year's Eve Options in Astoria and LIC

Image by Confessions of a Cookbook Queen

With Saturday's New Year's Eve plans soon approaching, you may still be figuring out just what to do. Are you up for a fancy dinner and drinks at a hot spot or would you rather chill out at a small cozy resto and end the night with a glass of champagne at home?  It's up to you of course, but I wanted to provide you with options to make that decision.

Studio Square - If you're looking for something fun and boisterous to do with a large group of friends, Studio Square may be just right for you.  Their party will start at 8 p.m. with a live DJ, complimentary party favors, and lots of drinks options.  With only a $15 cover, it's affordable and promises to be a lively time.  35-33 36th Street, LIC.  718.383.1001

LIC Market - Extending their fabulous supper club concept to New Year's Eve, LIC Market will host two dinner seatings, one at 6 p.m. and the other at 9 p.m.  The latter is the more lavish and pricier option, with a 6-course tasting and a glass of sparkling wine.  Cheers to that!  21-52 44th Drive, LIC.  718.361.0013

Seva - The deals at Seva never cease to impress me, and especially when you consider the high quality of their food.  For New Year's Eve, they're offering a 3-course dinner special for just $20.12 per person.  You can choose from all your regular favorites such as samosas, chicken, shrimp, lamb dishes, and more.  Considering that this deal is extended until New Year's Day, even if you don't end up here that night, you can still enjoy the great value the day after.  30-07 34th Street, Astoria.  718.626.4440

DiWine - It's guaranteed to be a partay at DiWine for New Year's, as they'll be offering a 4 hour open bar, a live DJ, party favors and more for $65/person.  Stay until midnight of course and receive a free glass of champagne and hors d'oeuvres.  I also noticed they're throwing in an incentive for dinner, as diners will receive a $10 off the open bar option.  Eat and drink up!  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.1355

Bistro 33 - Enjoy New Year's Eve in this intimate, casual venue with a special 3-course dinner that starts at 10:30 p.m. and includes a champagne toast and party favors.  You can also come by earlier and choose anything off their a la carte menu.  You can read all about the special menu items here, which include yummies such as steamed mussels, a duck duo, fluffer nutter dessert and more.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria.  718.721.1933

Cavo - Cavo's New Year's Eve event is always a big production and this year is no different. Whether you choose to come by for their Mediterranean feast between 7 and 8:45 p.m. or their after party, which starts at 9 p.m., it's guaranteed to be a night of excitement, dancing and fun.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

Bear -  Although still a newcomer, Bear is certainly making a name for itself with its sophisticated menu and plentiful vodka offering.  For New Year's Eve, they'll be featuring a 3-course menu and a glass of champagne for $65/person.  The menu is tantalizing, with items such as roasted rabbit fettuccine, a three-shot vodka special, roasted duck with apples and more.  See the entire New Year's Eve menu here.  12-14 31st Avenue, Astoria.  917.396.4939

Vesta - Always promising a great time, this wonderfully local restaurant is hosting a "Blast from the Past" decades party.  Guests are encouraged to come in costume from their favorite era, and enjoy a gorgeous 4-course dinner.  As usual, there will be 3 seatings, with the last one also including complimentary party favors, a session with a tarot card reader and a midnight toast.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.545.5550

Veslo - Stretching out the celebration throughout the night, Veslo's New Year's Eve will start with a 5-course dinner with a top shelf open bar, and then extend to a big after party, starting at 12:30 a.m. Dinner reservations are highly encouraged and comfortable shoes are also a plus, as you'll want to dance your hiney off.  32-11 Broadway, Astoria. 718.728.0549

El Ay Si - Another great place to keep the celebration local is El Ay Si where you'll be able to enjoy their regular dinner service as well as other food and drinks specials.  A DJ will be spinning and the good news is that there is no minimum charge per person - a great choice that won't break the bank.  47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC.  718.389.8781

DiWine is Turning 3

Image by DiWine

In the spirit of celebration, I wanted to let you know about a great event that's going on this Thursday at DiWine Wine Bar.  It happens to be their 3 Year Anniversary celebration, and the deals they're extending in its honor are truly awesome and something not to be missed.

A cool and somewhat under-the-radar hangout in the Western part of 31st Avenue neighborhood, DiWine is a great place to chill out after work or on a weekend night.  Their wine and cocktails are craftily constructed and they also focus on entertainment and special events that bring you something a little extra.

Here's an example of what you can expect this Thursday, December 8th for their big 3 year anniversary:

3 cocktails for $6
3 beers for $5
3 types of free hors d'oeuvres

You can drop by all day and enjoy the fun.  Congrats DiWine on your big 3!

DiWine – 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY
718.777.1355
R/V/G Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com 

DiWine Halloween Debauchery

Image by DiWine

You may have noticed I’ve been MIA last week, and that’s because Dan and I took a much needed vacation break in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I’ll have plenty of delicious things to report on that, but before we get to exotic eats, I want to highlight a fun happ in our neck of the woods.

With Halloween right around the corner, Astoria and LIC haunts will no-doubt bring the fun and debauchery to the next level. I’ll be doing my usual round-up of various local events, but wanted to give you a heads-up of one particular offering I was just informed about.

The event comes from friends at DiWine, as they will be throwing a Disco party on Saturday the 29th, no doubt the night to celebrate this spooky holiday. Here are the deets:

DiWine’s Disco Isn’t Dead Halloween Shin-Dig
Saturday, October 29th from 10 p.m. – end of the night

Luckily, there is no cover and you’ll also be able to enjoy drinks discounts. There may be more fun stuff coming down the pike, and I’ll keep you posted as DiWine updates their Twitter feed.

$6 Halloween drinks specials
$5 Six Point Pints

And don’t forget to come in your best costume!

DiWine – 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY
718.777.1355
R/V/G Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

DiWine's Art + Champagne - Plus 3 New Summer Cocktails

Image by DiWine

I love hearing about the fun new things DiWine constantly has in the cooker.  Their latest and greatest mixes art with champagne in their Art + Champagne event, happening this Thursday. 

The concept of this event is pretty cool, as it allows you to admire and ask questions about local works of art, and to top it off, enjoy some free champagne.  I love the way DiWine always ties things back to the community, and I'd be curious to see what you think of this event.  Here are the vitals:

Art + Champagne at DiWine:
Thursday, July 28th at 8 p.m.
Featuring the works of Mike Harrison
Free champagne until it lasts
The drinks special of the night will be the Kina Gin for $6

And speaking of drinks, if you'd like to try a few of their newest summer cocktails, here's their latest and greatest:

Mango Colada Martini - Mango-infused rum, cream of coconut, and mango puree

Rickiety Cucumber - Muddled cucumber and strawberry, lime juice, Irish whiskey, and simple syrup

Herbal Lemonade - Lemon-thyme infused vodka, lemon juice, cointreau, and vanilla simple syrup

All three have been added to DiWine's drinks specials, which means they are $6 each.  Good stuff!

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/M Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

Champagne + Art + Food = DiWine Combination

DiWine restaurant and wine bar is never at a loss when creating new, fun ideas for social gatherings--this time combining art with good drinks and food.  This Thursday, they'll be doing just that, as they kick off a series of art nights, featuring local artists (Thursday's special guest will be artist, Mike Harrison) who will talk about the inspiration for their works.

Along with culture comes food and wine of course, and the reason you're probably reading this.  So...if you stop in at DiWine for this event, you'll enjoy complimentary champagne (until it runs out) as well as their generous helping of thoughtfully prepared amuse-bouches.

In addition to the freebies, DiWine will be featuring their classic Kina Gin cocktail for just $6.  You can RSVP to Thursday's event on Facebook.

DiWine's Art & Champagne Night starts this Thursday, March 10th at 8:00 p.m. Get there early to make sure you get some bubbly.

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/M Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

Valentine's Day in Astoria

Image by coffeestencil.com

It's that time of year again and love is in the air. Ok...that was pretty cheesy, as I tend to think of Valentine's day more as a fun day to celebrate with friends, family and significant others, rather than making a big to-do of it.  It's a day that you should have fun with and not stress out about.  Plus...it's a great excuse for eating out and a lot of Astoria/LIC restaurants are getting ready for it by featuring celebratory specials.  I wanted to outline them for you here, so no matter with whom you celebrate this day with, I hope you have a fantastic time.

Vesta - Always pulling out all the stops, Vesta welcomes V-Day with a 3-course menu made up of local, organic ingredients and a glass of prosecco.  You can expect some of their signature favorites such as a braised veal Osso Bucco and the very famous, Baby Jesus Cake.  The prix-fixe is $50 per person.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Cavo - Usually a pricey option, this year Cavo whipped out a refreshingly price-conscious menu with a 3-course prix-fixe for just $45 per person.  The food options are tantalizing, including a saganaki cheese flambee, four-hour braised black angus short ribs, and even a Cupid's chocolate surprise for dessert.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

L'Artiste - Just a few steps from Cavo, you've got L'Artiste, which is the way to go if you want a romantic, intimate meal.  They're featuring a 5-course sophisticated French menu with a glass of champagne and a glass of wine for $75/person.  I know the price may sound steep, but the quality of food and the service are impeccable.  42-20 31st Avenue, Astoria. 646.309.7504

Seva - From a treat to a steal, Seva is a fantastic V-Day option if you're on a budget.  For $15/person you can score a 3-course menu full of homey, comforting Indian dishes.  And for just $10 more, you can get wine with that samosa too!  30-07 34th Street, Astoria.  718.626.4440

Veslo - This new Croatian eatery is certainly picking up steam, offering a robust 5-course V-Day prix-fixe for $50/person.  A mix of seafood, pasta and meat grace the menu and as for dessert, Croatian-style crepes are also in store.  This special is valid from 2/11 - 2/14 - enjoy! 32-11 Broadway, Astoria. 718.728.0549

DiWine - Are you a wine lover? If so, you won't want to miss DiWine's 4-course special menu, which also includes a glass of wine.  You can always ask one of their experts about specific wines to pair with this thoughtful menu, which includes items such as a duck confit spring roll, a braised lamb shank, banana walnut bread pudding and much more.  The special will set you back $65/person.  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.1355

Ornella - It's no secret that I turn to Ornella for virtually every occassion.  While there's a $35 3-course Menu Romantico prix-fixe, you can also choose from their extensive menu of fresh pastas, meat (the pork Osso Bucco is amazing!) or their newest creation, sanguinaccio (black pudding and chiacchiere fritters).  29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.9477

eXo - This delicious Greek resto is offering a 5-course menu with comforting food, boasting innovative preparation.  You can expect items such as sizzling saganaki, lobster & orzo bisque, Montauk swordfish souvlaki, grilled hanger steak with...get this, Greek feta tater tots, and more.  The dinner is $68/person with a complimentary glass of champagne and even a free bottle of wine if you bring in another couple. Now that's an incentive!  15-16 149th Street, Whitestone.  718.767.4396

Ovelia - This year, Ovelia is sticking to their traditional dinner menu for V-day but where they're spicing things up is dessert.  With every entree order, you can also get a choice of a special dessert including a house-made raspberry sorbet with fresh raspberries or a hot brownie with ice cream and spicy caramel dressing. Sounds sexy!  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.7217

Testaccio - This stylish Italian resto in LIC will be celebrating with a 3-course menu including a glass of champagne for $75/person.  Before you write that off as too expensive, just look at the the menu, which boasts lobster cappuccino, panko crusted crab-cakes, Osso Bucco, braised short ribs, wood oven roasted king crab legs, Nutella mousse with vinsanto soaked raisins and other delectable treats.  47-30 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City.  718.937.2900

Mojave - Always ready to celebrate, Mojave will have a 3-course V-Day menu including coffee/tea and one complimentary V-Day cocktail.  They've made the menu extra special by putting on whimsy items such as Valentine's Lovers Soup, white grape truffles and more.  At $49/person, it promises good value.  22-36 31st Street, Astoria. 718.545.4100

Studio Square - Here's something different to do for people who are looking to mix and mingle on V-Day.  Studio Square will be hosting a "Single and Ready to Mingle" party, which starts at 5 p.m. and goes on all night.  Ladies drink for $1, so even if you don't catch your ideal valentine ladies, at least you'll drink for cheap.  35-33 36th Street, Astoria. 718.383.1001

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden - I was pleasantly surprised when I noticed that Bohemian Hall was featuring a V-Day dinner.  Their 3-course prix-fixe offers a simple menu and two glasses of champagne for $75/couple.  Maybe you can trade the latter in for beer!  29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria. 718.274.4925

New Fun Things Going on at DiWine

Image by DiWine

DiWine, Astoria's funky-cool wine bar has a couple of new, fun things percolating during the week.  I think this is a great, relaxing spot to hit up after a long work day, and I find their wine selection to be quite nice.  Two specials they're featuring during the week include:

Chef's Table Tuesdays, where you get to sit right by the open kitchen and observe the culinary ways of Chef, Joe Fusco.  You'll enjoy a chef-to-diner meal all evening, with $10 entrees.  Reservations must be made.

Late Night App Happy Hour starts Thursday and ends on Sunday, during which you can get a buy-one-get-one appetizer after midnight.  The kitchen stays open until 2 a.m. so this might just be the perfect way to dig into some late-night weekend snacking.

Have fun - and tell 'em who sent ya!

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/V/G Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

DiWine - Uncorking New Things

Image by www.diwineonline.com

New and exciting things are happening at DiWine, wine bar and lounge.  The space offers a sexy and modern atmosphere for weeknight drinks or even weekend brunch.  I've been there before with friends and while it's suitable for a group of girlfriends, it's also a nice venue for a date or a special occasion.  While I think the food is sometimes forgettable, the wine and creative cocktails speak for themselves. Here are their new additions - enjoy!

Cocktails and Wine - The Tangerine Mojito is back along with other fun options like the Peanut Butter Cup martini with peanut-infused vodka and the Bacon Mary with bacon-infused vodka.  Watch out bacon fans - this one will put you over the edge!  

White wine lovers will enjoy a heftier offering this spring, with more choices by the glass and bottle.

Free Wine Tastings with a Twist - Each wine tasting will now also include free hors d'oeuvres.  Tastings take place on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. - you can drop in on your own or bring friends.  Everyone is welcome.

Brunch is Back - While the details of when brunch will return are still sketchy, they'll offer the same $13 prix-fixe as before with a few enhancements.  Your stiff drink fix will be met with 1 mimosa, bloody mary, bellini or screwdriver, which comes with the prix-fixe.  And for an extra $6 you can drink all-you-want.

Enjoy these fun specials and let me know how you liked your experience.  Feedback is always appreciated!

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/V/G Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

Happy New Year Astoria!

Happy almost New Year Astoria!  There's so many exciting and wonderful things happening on Thursday night in celebration of this holiday and here's a run-down.  Enjoy and make your reservations if you haven't done so already.

Bistro 33 - You have a choice between the regular a la carte menu or a special chef's tasting menu, complete with wine pairings and a champagne toast at midnight.  And if you prefer to hit it up on New Year's day, they'll be serving brunch all day long.  Special Chef's Tasting menu is $95/person.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria.  718.721.1933

DiWine - Hit up this fun wine bar on New Year's eve with a 4-course menu, including a champagne toast, party favors, free hors d'oeuvres after 12 and a live DJ.  Seatings are between 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.  $70/person.  If you'd like to dine prior to the hubbub, you can do so between 5 p.m. - 7p.m. 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.1355

Mundo - Enjoy a delicious Turkish New Year's dinner at this intimate eatery with a 4-course feast including specialties such as creamy Turkish-style chicken salad with walnuts, homemade spinach pie and plenty of veggie options.  6:30p.m - 8:30 p.m seating or 9:30 p.m. - Midnight seating.  $65/person.  31-18 Broadway #E, Astoria.  718.777.2829

718 - As on most special occassions at 718, this will be rockin' party with DJ Lean spinning 80's and Latin tracks.  The party starts at 11p.m. and you can stop in for dinner anytime - they have a new menu available here.  35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Radio Bar & Grill - The newly-opened Radio Bar & Grill has an enticing New Year's special with a $20 cover, all drinks for $3 and FREE food.  Sounds like a great deal and it's a nice way to check out their new digs.  49-18 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.204.6892

Sweet Afton - Another newby and already a favorite is having a New Year's party with an open bar from 9 p.m. - midnight, hors d'oeuvres, a champagne toast at midnight and even a bagpiper!  $60 per person, reserve your tickets today.  30-09 34th Street, Astoria.  718.777.2570

Vesta - Black and White is the theme of this party, as black and white garb is suggested but not required.  A hefty 4-course menu will be available during 3 seatings with the following times and prices.  A welcome glass of bubbly and a midnight toast is included too.  6 p.m. seating - $45/person, 8 p.m. seating - $55/person, 9:30 p.m./10:00 p.m. seating - $65/person.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.545.5550

Bistro Les Minots - This traditional French, cozy eatery is having a 4-course menu with a terrine de Foie Gras, lobster ravioli, filet mignon, and a selection of classic French desserts such as creme brulee, a homemade apple tart and crepes as some of the options.  The 6 p.m. seating has been sold out but the 9 p.m. seating is still available.  $49.95/person. 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.606.2535

Cavo - A big celebration is in store with a 5-course tasting menu, which includes fun party favors during two seatings--one at 7 p.m. for $75/person and the other at 9:15 p.m. for $105/person.  Although pricy, it promises a high-end, trendy vibe with good entertainment.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

Ovelia - Party at this modern Greek cafe with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, no cover and a 4-course prix-fixe dinner with a glass of wine for $65/person.  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.7217

Have fun and have a Happy New Year Astoria!

Happy Thanksgiving Astoria!

The famous Turkey day is here this week.  How are you spending it? Whether in the mood for a classic American feast or a meal with an ethnic twist, here are 11 delicious venues that could help you celebrate Thanksgiving Day. 

Vesta -They're featuring a special Thanksgiving themed menu, but no prix-fixe, which is a good thing.  The butternut squash soup and braised pork shank sound particularly enticing.  See entire menu here. 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.545.5550

DiWine - A four-course Thanksgiving menu with a traditional Turkey roast, orange cranberry and walnut relish and a classic pumpkin pie with cinammon whipped cream will put you over the edge.  $55 per person.  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.777.1355

Bistro Les Minots - Curious about a French Thanksgiving? Try Bistro Les Minots' offering from 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. for just $24.95 per person.  Their feast includes three courses, and it guanrantees a couple of French infusions such as goat cheese and homemade chocolate mousse.  47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.606.2535

Cara Bella - Just steps away from Bistro Les Minots is Cara Bella and they have a special Thanksgiving menu too.  $35 per person will get you three hefty courses and a complimentary glass of prosecco.  They're kid friendly and offer a $14 kids menu.  47-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.956.1101

Da Franco - More on the Italian front, Da Franco's Thanksgiving menu boasts a 4-course $40 prix-fixe, which includes an appetizer, pasta (ravioli with toasted pumpkin), turkey and a signature dessert. They'll also have the regular menu if you're in the mood for pizza and homemade gelato.  23-92 21st Street, Astoria NY 11105.  718.267.0010

Christos Steakhouse - Does turkey bisque, an apple stuffed roast, chestnut stuffed turkey and pumpkin pie sound good to you? If so, check out these items and more on the Christos Steakhouse Thanksgiving menu for $35 per person.  41-08 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105.  718.777.8400

Zenon Taverna - This homey Greek eatery knows how to do things right with a $23 per person Thanksgiving menu with a mix of traditional Thanksgiving food like turkey and pumpkin pie--but also classic Greek dishes such as Cyprus meatballs.  The regular menu is available as well.  34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  718.956.0133

Ovelia - Another fun Greek eatery that's celebrating Thanksgiving is Ovelia with a $19.95 3-course prix fixe with a cream of turkey soup, a turkey platter with stuffing and a choice of two sides, as well as candied sweet potatoes for dessert.  Plan for an early meal, as Ovelia will be open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.721.7217   

Seva - Want to veer away from tradition? Have an Indian-style Thanksgiving at Seva, where they boast a $13 3-course prix-fixe dinner.  Seva's cuisine is a wonderful option for carnivores, vegetarians and vegans alike.  30-07 34th Street, Astoria NY 11103.  718.626.4440

Studio Square - Although they're not serving dinner on Thanksgiving, Studio Square will host a big Thanksgiving Eve bash on Wednesday night.  A live DJ, $15 pitchers and $5 shots should get people off their couch.  35-33 36th Street, Astoria NY 11106.  718.383.1001

Othello Deli - My favorite deli in Astoria is offering a $9.95 take-home Thanksgiving dinner plate with soup, turkey, stuffing, yams and mashed potatoes.  Call ahead and place your order.  26-19 24th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.956.1337

Establishments that are closed on Thanksgiving:
Mundo
Petey's Burger
Ornella Trattoria
Fatty's

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving everyone!

DiWine - Chic Wine Bar With Flava

DiWine - 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.777.1355
R/V/G Train to Steinway Street
www.diwineonline.com

Meg, Martha (new Joey in Astoria colleague) and I went to check out DiWine wine bar last night. I didn't have many expectations except that I looked at their site beforehand and loved what I saw. It seemed to be a chic, trendy place and a nice venue to meet for after-work drinks. All these things it was, and despite being a bit out of the way for me, I think I'll visit again soon.

Atmosphere:
Trendy, chic and comfortable are all accurate ways to describe DiWine. Although the space isn't huge, it's laid out so creatively that it gives the illusion of something bigger. There's a small outdoor seating area but the inside--at least for me--was more intriguing. The natural wood and exposed-brick decor makes DiWine feel earthy and rustic. Its best feature is the semi-private booth area that's sectioned off by sheer netting. The seats are comfy and cushiony and you can't help but recline and let your hair down. Besides a nice casual date place, I'd also recommend DiWine for a small group of friends.

Food and Wine:
The menu offered a lot of interesting-sounding small plates. We decided on the sharing route and ordered two tapas and a pizza. While the former was underwhelming the latter sure made up for it.

Spinach-Artichoke Dip - Recommended by our server, this was an easy sell, however, what came out wasn't anything to brag about. The bread was stale and the actual dip was just OK, nothing special. I'm wondering if it was homemade...? We voiced our disappointment about the bread and were brought something better, which was a nice way to approach the problem.

Mushroom Torchon - I love a good Portobello but was yet again disappointed with this one, which was filled with roasted red peppers and topped with herbed goat cheese. It sounded great on paper but when we tasted it, it lacked seasoning and was a bit watery. I was underwhelmed because what I envisioned was something aromatic and flavorful and this was anything but.

The Gigi Pizza - This is where things turned around. From first sight and smell, we were impressed, as the pizza looked fantastic--packed with interesting ingredients such as smoked beef, capers, mushrooms and fresh buffalo mozzarella. Once we tasted it, it was simply "divine," the flavors melding together to form a hearty, smoky bite. The crust was super light and crunchy but needed more salt. Overall though, it was a delicious pie that I'd happily order again.

Wine - A nice selection of domestic and international whites and reds (and even organic options), made my decision challenging. I chose a classic Italian Pinot Grigio and was very satisfied by its crisp, fruity undertone. Martha went for another white, which I can't recall by name but it was also nice, with a slightly more acidy touch.

Service and Cost:
I have absolutely no complaints in this department. Our server was considerate and knowledgeable, providing recommendations where he could. He made sure to check on us, ensuring that we were happy and as noted, accommodated us when we were not.

Costs are reasonable with tapas ranging between $6-$14, all pizzas are $10, cheese platters run between $10-$15 and the wine is also wallet-friendly with most glasses at $8. Two tapas, a pizza and three drinks set us back about $21 per person with tax and tip.

2 Mmmms