I had seen multiple TV cooking shows with Greek Chef Maria Loi who always exudes great joy in whatever she does. I knew she had a bistro in NYC and was feeling Greek and knew the veggie options would work for Samuel, so we headed there last night. I was greeted at the door with a beyond fabulous welcome by Nicole who explained that while Chef Maria was away she was devoted to making everything perfect and truly Greek in this tiny narrow bistro. The space is warm and welcoming with leather booths on one side and tables opposite with a small curved bar at the center. The staff is attentive and concerned as Nicole immediately asked about my food allergies or issues and allayed any of my concerns.
Sam and his friend Bia arrived and we decided to order the appetizer of spreads to share. We also ordered our own starters and mains, which was where we went wrong. We should have ordered one course at a time as the portions are HUGE! There were FOUR dips with a ton of cut pita: Eggplant, Hummus, Spicy Feta and Tzatiki as well as an extra warm spicy feta cheese dip added in. We loved them, although I wish Taramasalata was an option. Nicole explained that Chef Maria will not make it as the roe here in the states is not the same as that used in Greek and hence, not a truly real interpretation. I still missed it.
The starters were all quite large with Sam's Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Lemon coming with Loi Meli Organic Honey which he loved. Bia's Calamari was charred and looked delish with a huge grilled lemon to squeeze over it and my excellent Octopus in red Wine came with Bell peppers, Capers and sat on a bed of fava Bean Puree with Pickled Onions on top.
I ordered a glass of the lesser priced Assyrtiko which they were out of, and they offered the other, which cost about $5-6/more a glass! It was crispy and refreshing and the pour was a hefty one as well.
Bia & Sam both ordered the Lentil Soup which while a huge bowl was a smart move, but I chose the monstrous portion of Seafood(shrimp,mussels and scallops) with tomato, onion, garlic and Greek pasta sprinkled with creamy feta which was superb, but I felt so bad I could barely eat half of it.
We chose to skip dessert, but Greek yogurt with honey was brought out and I could not even take a bite I was so full.
Lesson learned....but we will definitely go back for more, or maybe LESS next time!
