 
Tried this new restaurant for Winterlicious lunch ($23). Very busy and packed; good food, small portions; room for improvement in the cleanliness of their dishes (sugar/cream set). I loved the Ginger Carrot Soup and I'm really into wine these days - Ruffino Pinot Grigio. The garlic shrimp on toast was good too.
Grilled Atlantic Salmon
Sweet Potato Puree, Caponata and Smoke Chipotle Aioli
Crackling Roasted Cornish Hen
Candied Apples, Root Vegetables, Spinach, Pan Jus
I never order chicken but this was the best/most special main - crispy outside, moist inside.
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Wedge Salad (nice plate)
poached shrimp, fennel, orange, pickled onion, radish, buttermilk dressing
Roasted Trout (local)
celery, beans, legumes, lemon crème fraîche, cashew brown butter
Chèvre Noir
pear compote, gingerbread
I was so hesitant to return to Luma for Winterlicious because a) the first time wasn't that great and b) the gimmick is not really exciting for me anymore. But because our first choice Adega was full and it was time for a girls reunion, I booked Luma again for the $35 dinner - average food, but pretty good environment for small group dinner. And actually, I was pleasantly surprised by my choices. The poached shrimp looks plain, but it was pretty good in texture, very smooth (滑 &爽) and pretty big portion. Trout dish was pretty natural and healthy, not a fan of the white beans. And the dessert - a very strong cheese, toned down with the pairing of gingerbread crisp and sweet pear compote. Overall not the best menu on paper, but turned out to be a pretty good night with good company.
#tbt to the time I went down to Colette for brunch. Such a pretty French space, and food was good too (except the coffee). I enjoyed the Eggs Benedict with tomato & avocado and Quinoa Pudding - first time having quinoa in sweet form and first time having my fav eggs benny on croissant!
I made a random visit to Bar Buca back in November for a late afternoon brunch (Saturday & Sunday until 4pm). I fell in love immediately - I just love the small space; simple yet cozy, great vibe, high wood tables, and small sharing plates is my favorite type of dining style. It quickly became one of my favorite spots in the city.
I shared the Uova Rossa - duck egg yolks, bay scallops, pine nuts, scallions, crisp proscuitto and Italian pancakes (Crispelle) - crispy pancakes with cream, pistachio, maple syrup, chocolate, candied orange. Love how every dish is so complex and unique; delicate layers of different, distinct flavors and ingredients that work together.
This gem is perfect for dates and for any time of day! The dinner menu is great as well and I can't wait to go back.