Wallse, Lupa and La Esquina
Friday night we walked over to Wallse and had dinner. During the warmer months, they put small tables outside for parties of 2 – 4. It was a beautiful night. Also, that particular corner (Washington and 11th) is quiet with just a few people strolling around which makes it even better.
I have always been a big fan of Wallse and last night was just as good if not better. First of all, Laurie Anderson and Lou Reed ( who are big regulars ) were sitting a few seats down from us. Even though I live in NYC, seeing the local celebs is always an added bonus. What can I say?
I had lightly roasted asparagus with a very light vinaigrette with chopped shallots and tiny peas on top. Next to this on the plate was a small round portion of chopped tuna tartare. Simple, delicious and perfect for the weather. For a main course, I had 2 deep fried soft shell crabs with a mango salsa. Absolutely perfect. Fred and our friend had a poached tail of lobster in a rich almost sweet tasting cherry broth. It was like having dinner and dessert at the same time. Not a big portion but perfect for how rich lobster is. We bagged dessert but they brought out chocolate dusted almonds and 3 tiny squares of layered chocolate cake. I could go back again tonight.
After the movies on Saturday night, we walked over to Lupa. Fred loves Lupa and I know many others who do but I have never been that wowed. We sat at the bar. The Saturday night crowd is interesting. I am not sure how many people there actually are from the city but more tourists and people in for the night on the town. Interesting. During the week it is probably a tad different. Regardless, we had some really excellent things and some okay things.
We began with a combo of appetizers. A small plate of prosciutto which was out of this world, a bowl of sliced octopus with a spicy creamy sauce which was also excellent. The last antipasti we had was artichoke halves with a mint and citrus coating. This didn't wow me. We split the special pasta. A duck ragu over spaghetti which was excellent. Lots of flavor and chunks of pulled braised duck breast. We also split the skate for last which didn't knock me out. I have always thought the key to Lupa is the pastas and antipasti. They also have a great selection of wine by the carafe.
Lunch today we in Soho. We dined outside at La Esquina. The tacos and upstairs menu is the best part. I wouldn't eat downstairs in the dungeon but stick to the upstairs. They also have a nice cafe on the side of the building now and you can also take out. I had a chicken salad, mexican style. The boys had tacos. The food is okay but sitting outside on the street and watching the world go by is always a delight.