Entries from November 2009 ↓

Emporio: 231 Mott Street

New York, NY

Phone: 212-966-1234

November is flying by, which means Christmas is just around the corner.  If you’re exhausted from Thanksgiving and can’t possibly think about hosting another holiday dinner, let Emporio take care of the cooking for you.  Celebrate your Christmas Eve with its decadent prix fixe menu as you gaze into the winter sky through the restaurant’s custom glass atrium.  Choices like the braised beef and prosciutto tortellini and the roasted sunchoke soup will leave you feeling festive.  Each meal also comes with a glass of Champagne with burrata and winter truffle crostino, a perfect drink to toast the holidays with.

Emporio’s Christmas menu is available on Christmas Eve for $55 per person.

NATALE DA EMPORIO

$55 per person

Complementary glass of Champagne

with  burrata and  winter truffle crostino

choice of one

Roasted sunchoke soup

with robiola la tur  and truffle oil

Jumbo shrimp with white bean puree,

roasted trevisano radicchio

Bollito misto terrina

with lentil vinaigrette and mostarda di Cremona

Braised beef and prosciutto tortellini,

chicken broth

(vegetarian option available)

choice of one

Moist roasted Colorado lamb with rosemary potatoes

Halibut with soft polenta and wild mushrooms

Butternut squash sformato

with taleggio fondue, roasted brussel sprout

choice of one

Bayles tiramisu’

Home made cantucci and vinsanto

From the Owners of Aurora, Emporio

When Aurora owners Gaspare Villa, Elena Fabiani, and chef/partner Riccardo Buitoni set out to transform their once-tented Payard space on Mott Street, they envisioned a local hangout for the attractive young crowd they knew they were nesting up against. What they wound up with was something much greater—Emporio, a chic but rustic-looking restaurant with an atrium that looks to the stars and a complete menu of affordable yet quality-driven food that strongly holds its own against the slew of Italian competition in the nabe.

At its core, Emporio is a crowd-pleaser, and it succeeds greatly in that goal by offering a wide range of options for its patrons: Its refined Italian offerings make it a culinary destination, its aperitivo menu makes it the perfect after-work hangout, and the late-night spuntino menu rounds up the hip out-and-about crowd. All these diverse groups converge seamlessly in great part due to Emporio’s décor, which was thoughtfully crafted to evoke a signature European sense of vintage warmth and comfort. In the front dining room, hand-painted wallpaper, artfully decayed ceiling tiles, and rope-bound poles provide a worn-in look that gives new meaning to the phrase “vintage urban chic,” while shelves of wine bottles and dried salumis over the bar assert the restaurant’s main aims. In the larger dining room behind it is the real showstopper: a custom-made atrium that delivers the feeling of outdoor summer dining all year long. It’s no wonder such a mélange of patrons become regulars here.

Of course, none of this would matter if the food didn’t match the ambiance. Diners can mix-and-match between a selection of small dishes by Chef Buitoni—antipasti, formaggi, salumi, fritti, assaggini, and crudo that rotate daily as per market availability—or take a more traditional three-course route. However they like to order, it would be wise to begin with Emporio’s signature squash blossoms (available whenever in season), filled with a creamy blend of sweet mozzarella and salty anchovies before being gently fried. In their absence, the arancini make a perfect substitute. Each steaming bite reveals a savory blend of risotto, prosciutto and tomato with the perfect ooze of cheese.

Emporio strives to use as many organic ingredients as possible, and many of the rest are imported directly from the most prestigious producers in Italy. The results can be seen throughout much of the menu, including a favorite antipasto of baked shrimp with Calabrian hot peppers, whose subtly smoky, distinctly spicy heat infuses into a generous rub of olive oil and garlic. Grilled octopus benefits from an earthy char, which is delicately balanced against a potato, tomato, and eggplant salad in a mild yet bright balsamic.

Buitoni is quick to say that, despite the strength of his menu overall, his pizza has developed many steadfast fans. It’s quite special, baked in one of the city’s only genuine brick ovens—a custom designed feature for the restaurant that overlooks its very own bar where patrons can sit, eat, and watch their meals baked in front of them. The oven alone doesn’t make the pizza—indeed, Emporio’s emphasis on quality ingredients is what completes the equation. San Marzano DOP tomatoes for the sauce, imported buffala mozzarella, and the freshest basil make the margherita a classic you’ll go back for time and time again, and the perfect thin crust—chewy but not soggy—only adds to the allure. The variety ensures that all tastes will find what they’re looking for, be it Italian sausage, unconventional cheeses like gorgonzola or ricotta salata, or spicy sopressata.

As for the pastas, all of Emporio’s are house-made using all organic eggs. The paccheri, dressed with an unusual combination of eggplant, grape tomatoes, pesto, and mozzarella shows that each of the flavors that go into individual sauces can work as a team, too—and rather well, at that. Hand-rolled orecchiette are laden with shrimp, roasted cauliflower, and the speckled generously with bottarga for a luxurious spectrum of sea-filled flavors. Entrees are just as strong, as evidenced by the whole grilled Mediterranean branzino, which receives a delicate treatment of olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs that keep things simple, clean, and healthy.

It’s worth staying a little longer for dessert, if you have the space to spare. A bittersweet chocolate tart with sea salt and homemade caramel will sate a chocoholic’s ultimate craving without being too sweet or heavy, while panna cotta is welcomingly paired with poached figs for a market-fresh flavor. Like many things in life, one of the simplest desserts is Emporio’s best—the affogato. Made with Capogiro vanilla ice cream from a local Amish farm, the affogato gets its unique twist from a heavy “dusting” of chocolate crunch. It may be worth the trip on its own.

A more recent addition, Emporio now boasts a comprehensive wine list whose focus is on regional Italian specialties. A wide range is available by the glass, making the bar a popular place to grab a drink and appetizers, especially during happy hour, when the aperitivo menu provides buy-one-get-one deals alongside free bar snacks.

Moreover, Emporio’s cocktail list is one of the most interesting in the city—especially considering their proximity to a church. Due to strict liquor laws, Emporio’s cocktails cannot contain hard liquor, which has led them to start their own style of wine-based cocktails including the cucumber martini, which blends soju, a strong Korean wine, with cucumber puree and mint. Also on the list are the cosmopolitan champagne (a blend of sparkling white wine, non-alcoholic triple sec, cranberry, and lime), and the guava frizzante (made with prosecco and guava puree).

Emporio is located at 231 Mott St. in Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood. Dinner is offered from 5PM to 11PM on Monday-Thursday, from 5PM to Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5PM to 10PM on Sundays. They are also open for lunch on Monday through Friday from 11AM to 5PM, brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11AM to 5PM, and late-night spuntino daily until 2AM. For reservations or private parties, please contact the restaurant directly at 212-966-1234.

Disclosure

South Beach’s Red, The Steakhouse serves up entire Alaskan King Crabs this season

Defying the notion that a steakhouse is just for carnivores, Red, The Steakhouse is not only offering Alaskan King Crab at the trendy South Beach eatery, but they are serving it up in its entirety. Made infamous on the Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”, Alaskan King Crab is the porterhouse of shellfish.

During the four months of season (November through February), Red is the only steakhouse in Miami that offers the option of ordering a full, six-foot long Alaskan King Crab, which can serve up to 10. From the sea to your plate, Red serves the King Crab within 24 hours of delivery, ensuring the freshest in taste and flavor.

“We’re famous for turning the notion of what makes a steakhouse on its side through our twist on the classics here at Red,” said Peter Vauthy, Executive Chef and partner for Red, The Steakhouse. “Our steak and seafood creations are being kicked up a notch with the introduction of Alaskan King Crab on our menu – so whether you’re a big fan of sea fare or looking for the best steak in town, Red is where you want to be. ”

For those who can’t decide between Red’s world-renowned steaks or the mouth-watering Alaskan King Crab, Red’s Ultimate Surf & Turf featuring fresh Alaskan King Crab and signature Certified Angus Beef® brand Prime Ribeye offers the ideal combination. Those seeking just a taste of the freshest white meat crab in South Beach can start their meals with King Crab Legs and Claws appetizers.

At Red, Alaskan King Crab is prepared steamed with butter or for those looking to try something different, try Red’s King Crab Cocktail or King Crab Bisque. Alaskan King Crab will be available at market price, which is approximately $40 per pound of meat. Full King Crab orders must be given at least three to four days notice prior to dining reservations.

Bursting onto the South Beach scene in 2009, Red, The Steakhouse is Restaurateur and Owner, Brad Friedlander’s second location to its award-wining sister restaurant in Cleveland.   Red, the authority on steak, is located in the uber trendy South of Fifth neighborhood and boasts a steamy modern noir decor that oozes all things chic, while incorporating Miami’s spicy flair.  Featuring only the finest Certified Angus Beef Prime on and off the bone, Red’s menu – created by Executive Chef, Peter Vauthy – is a hybrid of classic cuisine and the freshest seasonal ingredients.  Everything from the sauces to garnishes are prepared from scratch – sure to convert even the staunchest of vegetarians into ravenous carnivores.  The menu is complemented by a bar boasting a selection of over 400 wines, including its own private blend and handmade signature cocktails, making Red’s hipster-filled bar an experience all its own. Red is located at 119 Washington Avenue. For more information or reservations call 305.534.3688 or visit www.redthesteakhouse.com.

Guests Can “Dream of Africa” with Kindle Wireless Reading Devices

Pre-loaded with Epic Tales of Love and Adventure in the African Bush~

Few love stories are as well-known — or well-loved — as Karen Blixen (aka Isak Dinesen)’s sweeping memoir, “Out of Africa”, the epic tale of her life and loves in the African bush. What better time to kindle (or re-kindle) romance, then, than 2010, which marks the 25th anniversary of the classic film version of “Out of Africa”, starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford?

Micato Safaris’ Kindle Romance in Kenya itinerary offers a perfect balance of adventurous wildlife viewing, luxurious, private accommodations and romantic activities—all certain to inspire love. And, to set the stage, Micato will send all booked guests a Collector’s Edition DVD of “Out of Africa” and a Kindle wireless reading device pre-loaded with tales of love and adventure in East Africa, including Ernest Hemingway’s “Green Hills of Africa”, Anita Shreve’s instant classic “A Change in Altitude”, and Beryl Markham’s renowned novel, “West with the Night”. The Kindles will also be loaded with guides to East African flora, fauna and culture. Perfect airplane reading for the journey to Kenya!

The special touches continue once guests land and they experience Micato Safaris’ unparalleled personalized service and passion for excellence, ensuring the creation of warm memories that will last a lifetime.

The 9-day journey, departing Wednesday, February 10, 2010* includes:

Day 1 Depart the U.S.

Days 2-3 Giraffe Manor, Nairobi

Giraffe Manor, an elegant, small and exclusive hotel famous for its resident herd of giraffe, offers a rich blend of welcoming accommodation, highly trained and friendly staff, as well as one of Nariobi’s finest kitchens. The Manor, which contains some of Karen Blixen’s original furniture, is surrounded by 140 acres of indigenous forest just outside of the Kenyan capital. During their stay here, they will enjoy a private tour of the National Museum of Kenya, a visit to the legendary Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where couples can “adopt” a rescued elephant orphan, dinner at Tatu steakhouse at Nairobi’s historic Fairmont, The Norfolk Hotel, and, of course, a tour of Karen Blixen’s former home and tea estate.

Days 4-5 Sasaab, Samburu

Fly to Samburu for two days at Saasab, perched above the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Here, couples will enjoy camel walks, game drives (the area is known for plentiful Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, elephants, lions, leopards and cheetah), visits with local villagers, and sundowner cocktails atop a rocky kopje reminiscent of the famed movie.

Back at the lodge, they may choose to enjoy a couples’ massage in the privacy of their own tent, or to relax together in their private plunge pool.

On Valentine’s Day (Day 5), couples will dine al fresco under the stars with an elaborately prepared bush dinner, complete with china, crystal, hanging lanterns, gourmet delicacies and Dom Perignon! A chorus of Samburu warriors provides the entertainment, serenading couples with traditional tribal courtship melodies.

Days 6-7 Sala’s Camp, Maasai Mara.

Depart for Sala’s Camp in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. This secluded spot is nestled on the convergence of two rivers and offers tranquility and spectacular views along the Sand River towards Tanzania and the Serengeti. Guests will enjoy accommodation in the camp’s deluxe Honeymoon Tent.

At Sala’s Camp, life is at leisure…. enjoy reading a love story in a hammock by the river, fire-side cocktails, and some of the most spectacular game viewing in the world. The highlight, without a doubt, will be a sunrise hot-air balloon ride high above the savannah!

Day 8 Give Back the Love: AmericaShare Visit

After a week of re-connecting and remembering the importance of the human bond, couples will visit Mukuru, a slum on Nairobi’s outskirts. It is here that Micato Safaris’ non-profit foundation, AmericaShare, is doing important work to provide women and children living with HIV/AIDS with education and tools for sustainable living. AmericaShare’s School Sponsorship program has taken thousands of vulnerable children off the streets and placed them in reputable boarding schools, forever changing the direction of their lives.

Couples will meet some of these very special women and children, spending time getting to know them, learning about their lives It’s not uncommon for Micato travelers, so completely astounded by their visit, to decide on the spot to sponsor a child’s education.

To truly know Africa — and its people — is to love it. We encourage our guests to share the love!

Day 9 Return to the U.S.

Micato Safaris’ Kindle Romance in Kenya Safari is priced at $11,735 per person, based on double occupancy. (Rate excludes international airfare.) For more information, visit www.micato.com or call 1-800-MICATO-1.

*Alternate departure dates available throughout 2010; call for dates and pricing.

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About Micato Safaris

Jane and Felix Pinto founded Micato Safaris in Kenya in 1966, and the company has been providing the most luxurious and personalized African safaris to sophisticated travelers ever since.  Winning the coveted Travel+Leisure “World’s Best Tour Operator & Safari Outfitter” award for an unprecedented six years, Micato prides itself on providing exceptional service throughout every stage of the safari experience.

For more than twenty years, Micato’s nonprofit arm, AmericaShare, has been actively working in Kenya to support the orphaned and vulnerable children and adults affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Funded 100% by Micato Safaris, AmericaShare channels the donations of its safari guests, corporate partners and industry friends directly to one of its projects in Mukuru, a notorious slum outside of Nairobi. AmericaShare’s mission is to provide education and hope to the women and children of Mukuru, as well as resources to facilitate sustainable change within the community.

Disclosure