Favorite wine bars: Part one
I love a good wine bar for several reasons beyond the vino. I'm a foodie and I love to sample different dishes. Wine bars are ideal for this since they typically have tapas size portions making them perfect for noshing on several dishes with friends. I also use wine bars for first date spots. After going on many dates in this city I like to have an out if I'm not hitting it off with my date, so I typically push for date number one being over coffee or a glass of wine. If it is going well, it's easy enough to extend it to another activity, if not I can enjoy a nice glass of Malbec and be on my way.
I'll be periodically sharing some roundups of favorite wine bars in the city, since I have quite a few. Here is the first batch:
Buceo 95 (Upper West Side): I've adored this Spanish bar since it opened in my neighborhood. Years later they are still full most evenings and with good reason. The food is incredible. My personal favorites are the Pimientos de Padron (blistered peppers), Goat Cheese Croquettes with honey, and the lamb chops with cranberry salsa. They have an extensive wine list. Their house red and white sangrias are perfect for enjoying the last days of summer.
The Drunken Horse (Chelsea): When I first moved to NYC in 2007 far west Chelsea was a bit of a dead zone. Thanks to The Highline and Chelsea Market this neighborhood has become a lot more happening in recent years. About six years ago I discovered The Drunken Horse and it's been in my Rolodex of favorite wine bars ever since. It's a cozy bar and the working fireplace makes this an ideal spot to warm up with a glass of red wine in the winter. I love meeting up with girlfriends here and splitting a cheese and charcuterie plate.
June (Carroll Gardens): A friend introduced me to this Brooklyn bar about three years ago. It's a great spot to meet someone for a drink or a lite meal. Their menu includes a section on orange wines which isn't something you come across at most bars. Their staff is super knowledgeable and always point me in the right direction when I want to sample something new. The menu changes throughout the year and I always go with the salad because no matter the season it is always scrumptious.
