Just when I thought I couldn’t enjoy Greek food more…

November 2, 2009 By

…How to Roast Lamb happens to me

How to Roast Lamb

How to Roast Lamb

I received my copy of Michael Psilakis’ “How to Roast Lamb” last week and I love this cookbook.  I’ve been a huge fan of Michael Psilakis for quite a while and have enjoyed dining at Kefi several times and can’t say enough about this “cookbook”.  I say “cookbook” as it’s way more than that.  Michael shares traditions, family and his rise to fame throughout the book and his passion for Greek food has renewed my interest in cooking this wonderful food and not just eating it out.

The book itself is weighty and features amazing quality paper (I’m a fan of good paper).  The photos of the food and of Michael’s family are great and left me wanting more (please tell me there’s more!).

I love that Michael could have made the recipes complicated to show off his grasp of fine cooking and his graduation to Manhattan’s elite, but opted to make each dish something even a basic home cook could recreate.  His goal to make Greek food accessible and simple to share with family and friends was accomplished – in a big way.

Looking forward to dining at Anthos and Michael’s next book.  Well done.

Filed Under: Other Neat Things Tagged With: , , , ,

Say Uncle Nicks for casual New York Greek food

September 12, 2009 By

Uncle Nick’s is a crazy little space in Hell’s Kitchen that’s vibrant with patrons and with an energetic staff.  The place consistently puts out unpretentious good Greek food.

Whether visiting as a couple or a group, sharing appetizers is a must at Uncle Nick’s.  Some can’t-miss options are the saganaki, or flamed Greek cheese, the inopikilia sampler platter for two, the combo of four dips and the grilled octopus.  The inopikilia platter is a good option for folks unfamiliar with Greek food or for anyone who wants to try a variety of fresh dishes like the octopus, the Greek sausages, dips and feta cheese.

Entrees are equally delicious, but become somewhat of an afterthought after munching on such tasty starters.  Some favorites are the kebobs – beef, lamb, pork or chicken, the baked mousaka, the pastitsio and the Greek-style halibut.  The fish is fresh and the kebobs are perfectly charcoal-grilled.

Uncle Nick’s offers catering, takeout and delivery and the restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner.  Beware that the place is loud, but not in a bad way.

Uncle Nick’s

(212) 245-7992

747 9TH Ave

New York City, NY 10019-6617

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,

Periyali for good Greek food in an intimate Manhattan setting

September 3, 2009 By

Periyali is intimate with its white-draped ceiling, white painted walls and casual tables and chairs. It’s reminiscent of Greece in its looks, the fresh ingredients it uses and the casual demeanor of its staff. The restaurant features French doors at its entrance which can be opened to let some of the patrons dine al fresco.

The food is prepared simply using the freshePeriyali's lamb shankst of ingredients. Guests are greeted with an amuse-bouche as they are seated. It’s a take on bruschetta, but with a Greek spin: tart feta cheese and just-off-the-vine chopped tomatoes on crispy toast with just the perfect amount of Greek olive oil. The freshness of the bite hints to the well-prepared meal to come.

Starters are of generous proportions, and some winners are the grilled octopus (five perfectly cooked large tentacles), the house-made sausages, known as Keftedakis, the grilled oyster mushrooms and the stuffed roasted tomato.

Recommended entrees are the melt-in-your-mouth lamb shank over orzo, the veal with wild mushroom sauce, the charcoal grilled filet mignon shish kebob and any of the uber-fresh fish dishes. Especially well prepared is the bronzini, which is often a featured dish.

The wine list is sizeable and unless diners are well-versed on the many Greek wines featured at Periyali, they should request assistance from the knowledgeable staff.  The wait staff is also helpful while considering the many menu options and is attentive while not being overwhelming.

Periyali is a quaint space with spot-on food and service.

35 West 20th Street
New York, NY 10011
Tel. (212) 463-7890

Lunch: Monday-Friday          12PM to 3PM
Dinner: Monday-Thursday   5PM to 11PM
Friday-Saturday:                       5:30PM to 11:30PM
Sunday:                                          5PM to 10PM

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: , , , , ,