Latin American
Sunday Brunch in the City: Essex
Sorry BATF’ers. I was SO tired this morning after staying up all night trying to book my vaca tickets, but I’m finally caught up!
Have you ever been to Essex Restaurant for brunch? It’s probably the loudest meal I’ve ever had in the AM with a DJ spinning while you’re having your tea. Makes it seem like the party is carrying over to the morning. The food is actually an interesting mix of Latin-Jewish fare, and the bi-level space used to be an elementary school gym (true story).
They have an all-weekend brunch special for $16 which is probably a little expensive if you’re not drinking (if you are, this includes 3 bloody marys, screwdrivers or mimosas. We just had a couple glasses of orange juice, but the portions are big so makes up for the price if you’re not drinking).
Crispy Potato Pancakes
LES tapas at Macondo
OK I know..I need to get myself out of the Lower East Side. But to my defense, this was the same night I had that delectable hot chocolate, only earlier…so yeah leavemealonek.
Caraminola, $8
[/caption]My friend Zeshan and I just stumbled into Macondo, this tapas restaurant on Houston for a quick bite before a show. I’m not sure how much of a tapas person I am actually. I don’t mind sharing big portions, but the little bites always leave me a little confused about what I just ate — did I have enough?? Do I want more?? What did I eat again??
At Macondo, I did like the ambiance. Very relaxing with dim lighting. I didn’t realize how small the portions would be, so we just shared a few dishes. I had two different Croquetas (croquettes): the Caraminola , with tetilla and manchego cheese atop of black bean sauce, $8 and the A La Lolita, with mushroom, figs, almonds, truffle trumpet allioli which is a garlic/olive sauce, $7. I liked the Lolita one a little more since the flavors were more exciting, though I thought for only 3 per dish, seemed like a little much for $15.
