Jun 16 2007
Smith Street Noobs
Took a walk up Smith today, and noticed a bunch of new restaurants and stores.
Started with brunch at Carniceria, the new Argentine steakhouse that replaced Porchetta. Even before chef Jason Neroni had his run in with the law, I was no fan of Porchetta, finding it full of experiments that came nowhere close to working. And while I can’t judge Carniceria from one brunch, I did like the vibe in there a lot–windows open to the street, pleasant staff, decor that’s actually a bit less fussy than the old room. My partner had the huevos rancheros, which were pleasant and had a flavorful red sauce, while my “benedict” came with patties of chorizo on crispy “Indian” bread and had a mild, creamy hollandaise that pepped up after a few good shakes of hot sauce. Nothing mind-blowing, but I’m satisfied enough to go back for dinner.
Well, lookee there. It lives. Po looks cute and not as expensive as I’d feared with most of the entrees clocking in under $20.
Walking by Sackett, I noticed a funny little stand down the block. Maybe I’m the last to know this, but apparently we have our own empanada lady in the neighborhood. I grabbed a chicken and a chorizo one for $1.25 a piece, and though I can’t say they were the best I’d ever had, it was an encouraging experience in light of the Red Hook Ballfield drama.
Finally two “coming soons” that were less exciting to me, but will probably please a few folks reading this. Both up toward Bergen.
One Response to “Smith Street Noobs”
I’m so glad the empanada lady’s back! I first saw her in early May (http://cheaptricksnyc.blogspot.com/2007/04/ode-to-empanada-lady_27.html), but she’s been MIA ever since.
Try the stuffed avocado!