Put a pin in it for your next blurred New York evening, bonus points if it's raining.
When you think of Dante, you're probably thinking of the green establishment gracing a quiet corner in West Village. I would argue her sister, Caffe Dante in Greenwich Village, gives her a run for her money.
Nestled between Houston Street and relished city favorite, Dame, Caffe Dante maintains excellence with her well-curated menu and repertoire of award-winning spirits behind the bar.
On any Saturday night - hot city summer evenings and early sunset snowy winters alike - I can find hostess Gaby waiting with a smile and a spare table. Eating inside is preferred, the dimly lit atmosphere is romantic even if you're on a date with yourself. But of course take what you can get if you're seated outside, a heated (and covered) patio pair well with martinis under a drizzling rain.
I usually begin, enjoy, and end with an Espresso Martini, served in a gold-trimmed coupe begging to join my bar cart aesthetic. If the night is right, my espresso is joined by a complimentary shot of spritz with a twist from our friend Gaby.
Next comes the main course - I don't want to sound dramatic but their Wild Boar Pappardelle takes me to my own Eat, Pray, Love scene - slurping noodles to the last bite with Italian opera in the background and zero shame - thank you Julia Roberts for teaching me how to enjoy pasta.
To top off an experience at Caffe Dante you must indulge in their Tiramisu - perfectly luscious mascarpone dusted with bitter cocoa done more than right. Given I'm not one to include balsamic in my dessert choices, I steer from their seemingly intriguing pannacotta and choose other sweet treats to explore when branching out on the menu.
New York is a special place, but it's not too different from other cities. Some neighborhood spots give you a cheap cup of coffee and a solid pastry on-the-go, mine just so happens to give me award-winning nightcaps and an experience that feels like my first time whenever I revisit...so maybe New York is a bit different :)
Purple's Picks
To start...cocktail of your choice but I recommend an Espresso Martini or their famous Negroni. If you're into Mezcal, the Mezcalito is a great choice!
To enjoy...I am a regular of the pappardelle with wild boar, but have also taste tested their flat bread and can attest to it's *chef's kiss* abilities.
And for dessert...you already know I vouch for the Tiramisu. To be blunt, it's the only dessert I've truly enjoyed. Their flourless chocolate cake is a good indulgence for chocolate lovers like myself but I would argue it's a bit dense.
Color Me Curious (Purple ?)
Coconut chiffon cake, Burrata, and housemade foccacia.
Add this to your Purple Picks list!
Until next time,
EJ
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