LB: I had a friend (a professional chef from San Francisco) in town last spring. She stayed on Park Avenue South and had dinner one night at Da Ciro on Lexington. She had good things to say about their "baby" chicken roasted in a wood burning oven, and their signature focaccia with robiola cheese.

Have you ever been?


http://www.daciro.com/index2.htm



(On that same visit we did a south Brooklyn food jaunt and dropped in at L&B Spumoni Gardens and Royal Crown Bakery-----if you ever need Italian pastries and some of the best bread in the NYC area, that is the place to go!


http://www.royalcrownny.com/

No! Have never been to da ciro but would love to try it--but GREW UP eating at Spumoni Gardens!! (I'm originally from Brooklyn).
If we're on Brooklyn- how about Frankies 457 (on Court Street). We stumbled on it last summer- very cool ambiance and really good Italian.
Re pastries-- Veniero's on 11th between 1st and 2nd (Manhattan) in Manhattan is among the best in my opinion. Always packed, overwhelming choices and among the best Sicilian cassata I've ever had. Have never been to Royal Crown (where is that?).
Was in Bay Ridge at a party last night and bemoaning (as I do every year) the demise of Alba's on 18th avenue in Bensonhurst.

BTW - To eat in an authentic art deco diner with Jewish/Polish food in the Theater District on 47th Street between Broadway and 8th Ave, think "Cafe Edison" also fondly known as the "Polish Tea Room". Delish food at very reasonable prices. Not fine dining by any means. Huge portions - you can share.

LB: Royal Crown is a NY institution! Some of the best bread and pastries you could imagine!
It is off New Utrecht in Bensonhurst. I think they have the best baguette in the city, but they are more famous for other breads.

I've only been to the Frankie's in Manhattan--very cute place; good food and not too pricey..they've opened up at least one new place in Brooklyn I think.

I think Veneiro's is good, too. I will make it a point to buy a slice of cassata next time...

But I like Madonia on Arthur Avenue even more..if you have not been to that area lately you have to go! I only wish I had a bigger freezer!

How did I ever miss Royal Crown?? I actually grew up i Bensonhurst!
Love Arthur Ave too-- we just dont get over there often enough- at least one spectacular place for cannnolis that comes to mind.
If you do get to Veniero's, try to get an "end". Its back in a giant slab with sprt pf almost a cookie/shortbread crust- the combo of that with the filling is amazing. Not that I have to tell you this, but the cassata is not to be confused witht their sicilian cheesecake, also sold in slabs but I think a little eggy. ALSO- this time of year they sell giant homemade torrones- sublime

A great little sushi restaurant, called Umi at 31st and Park. So little atmosphere, it has atmosphere if you know what I mean . . . very inexpensive and attentive service. The specialty rolls are imaginative. One is even called the Christmas roll. This place will definitely keep you under budget.
Kate
www.moonfun.net

LB: That is a great tip! I will have to make a trip to Veneiro's soon. Should I ask for "the end of the cassata?"

I have to admit that i am a bit leery of inexpensive sushi places..I wonder what kind of fish they are serving..

Lol-- yes-- or a "corner".