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monday 08.06.07
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| .nightout: Lupa, Pegu Club |
twoDINE: Lupa
Take a quiet stretch of Thompson Street, a charming and cozy interior, and a mouth-watering menu that you'll be talking about the next day and you get Lupa Osteria Romana. Celebrating almost 8 years of success, this upscale--but unpretentious--Roman-style trattoria, better known just as Lupa, will keep you coming back for more.
The selection of small plates is full of treats, like the house-made Salumi and Cavolo Nero (black cabbage) with Pecorino. Check the back-of-the-menu glossary so you don't mistakenly order something like Testa, or head cheese--an admittedly acquired taste. At Lupa, even simple dishes are prepared with care, like the rich pastas Bavette Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper) and Capricci with Summer Herbs & Ricotta. Main courses are well-seasoned and hearty, like Pork Shoulder with Rhubarb, Campari, and Ginger or the Lamb Short Ribs special. Desserts are few and traditional, but there is a nice variety of cheeses with which to end the meal, like the ricotta with honey. There are an overwhelming number of wines to choose from, but don't be afraid to ask: the gracious wait staff are happy to make suggestions. Don't worry if you can't get a reservation--the front of the restaurant is always open for walk-ins.
Lupa Osteria Romana: 170 Thompson Street; (212) 982-5089
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twoDRINK: Pegu Club
The mystique of the Pegu Club may be its namesake, a nineteenth century British Officer's Club on the coast of Burma, but the secret to its devoted patrons is commitment to the art of the cocktail. Fresh juices, infusions, tinctures, and syrups are carefully balanced with gin and bourbon for a classic selection of refined drinks. The warm glow you'll feel from the drinks is matched by the romantic aura of this seductive retreat, located up a steep flight of stairs just off the madness of Houston Street and appropriately guarded by a serene candlelit Buddha.
Pegu Club: 77 W. Houston Street; (212) 473-7348
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