Paprika in the East Village
You guys. I don’t know if you’ve noticed but the picture quality lately has been kinda eh. Truth is, my camera decided to start acting up (which I don’t blame it for…I’ve been pretty brutal in my handling and tossed it around a lot). Plus the lens was all scratched up and, yeah, I’ve basically been shopping for a new one. Until then, you might have to deal with some sad backup pics that I take with my phone. But I figured I should keep on keeping on with the posts. And so we come to Paprika in the East Village.
It’s a restaurant right across one of my favorite brunch spots, Cafe Mogador. I was meeting up with my friend Laila, and it was the first time either of us have been. Well, actually I think I vaguely remember stopping in here for dessert years ago but not significant enough to really have an opinion about the place. It definitely has a cute, rustic ambiance — dimly lit with lots of tables waiting to be occupied by mostly couples. We were greeted by a jumpy waiter who told us about the mushroom-centric prix-fixe menu options which I think included something with polenta and a main course that included veal juice, so I decided to pass. Instead, I opted for hand-rolled potato gnocchi with roasted mushroom and light cream sauce. Laila got the handmade pappardelle with braised oxtail ragu.
Gnocchi, $15
Pappardelle, $16
The dishes came out FAST. I felt like my gnocchi was a little on the bland side (even with the added parmesan and pepper from our waiter), and I only got through half. Laila was also a bit underwhelmed with her pappardelle, saying it wasn’t bad, but just nothing really special. We were hoping dessert would make up for it: Chocolate Soufflé.
Rich and moist warm chocolate cake with a creamy chocolate center, $7
[Remember my preface about the pictures? Yes.]
The souffle was a welcomed burst of warm, melted chocolate, and maybe it was a good way to finish the meal off. But overall, probably not my favorite of restaurants. At least the conversations were flowing, and for once, the food wasn’t the main focus — thanks, Laila!
REPORT CARD
Meal: Dinner
Price: $$
(Out of three stars)
Ambiance: **
Food: *
Service: **
Would I go back?: Probably not.
Restaurant Info:
Paprika
110 St. Marks Place
btw 1st and Avenue A
New York, NY 10009
(212) 677-6563
East Village
x
Shy
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Their brunch is delicious as well! Must try that souffle.
Nov 1st, 2012
i’ve had brunch there a few times and liked it
Nov 5th, 2012
Hmm! Absolutely great post! The foods are really amazing and mouth watering! This place is perfect for a family get together.
Nov 7th, 2012