A few little gems

I have been meaning to write about some of the cool resturants I have had the opportunity to enjoy in the city.  I will be bringing this section  of my blog "A Few Little Gems" once a month.



PONTY BISTRO in Gramercy
218 Third Ave
Btwn. 18th and 19th street
NYC
www.pontybistro.com



A great little bistro that mixes the  French Mediterranean and African influences and culture of the two chefs.  The food is just delicious.  I mean, they have Duck Confit Omelets for Brunch, for crying out loud!   I have yet to taste anything that was bad, the services is great. They are very attentive and the cocktails are tasty too.  They have 2 for 1 happy hour cocktails. It is small place but you will love it.  Great for Dates, night out with the ladies and small birthday parties.



LIDO in Harlem
2168 Fredrick Douglas Blvd. (at 117 street)
www.lidoharlem.com/




This place truly is a little gem in Harlem. I have known about it for over a year now.   Its known for its crazy bottomless mimosas brunches but outside of that, its also has an amazing dinners and cocktails menu.    The cocktails are, so far, the best I have had on the Golden Mile of restaurants on Fredrick Douglas.  A few things about LIDO, when you walk in, you immediatley feel, like your downtown. The atmosphere, just makes you feel as if your not in Harlem. Not that there is anything wrong with the World Famous Harlem, but sometimes you want to get away. Get a lovely meal out of the neighborhood. Except you don't have to leave it.  Second thing about LIDO is that the menu sounds good, but then you have your meal and its EVEN BETTER!   The  its also a lovely space to met up with friends or date.


MAIALINO in Grammercy
 2 Lexington Avenue
 Grammercy Park Hotel
 http://www.maialinonyc.com/




Really lovely Italian Trattoria at Grammercy Park Hotel.  They are alwasy busy for Brunch (which is sooo good like everything else).  They make whole pigs and cure their own bacon btw.  The services is wonderful.  They also have a private room that fits 20 for parties.  You have to be aware that they get booked months in advance  for that big dinner/party room.  So plan ahead.



ASTOR ROW CAFE
404 Lenox Ave
New York, New York
Harlem




Great little spot to have a cup of coffee, study, have a meeting, do some work, have a little meal.  The staff is really friendly.  The spot is really laid back and open.  Its also cool that they have a DJ on Sunday and Tuesdays.