Frank Bruni thinks Mercat’s tapas are good, as long as you steer clear of the seafood and don’t mind salt, but he’s a sourpuss when it comes to the atmosphere. “Some wonderful food, some clangorous acoustics: these are the defining traits.” Something to do with the glass of wine that was spilled on his vestments? [NYT]
Bruni may have been better off dining at Mercat’s bar, where Randall Lane dug the “lively scene.” He also liked what he ate — not exactly the case at Seamus Mullen’s relaunch of Suba. [TONY]
Ryan Sutton stalks chef Riccardo Buitoni at his new Soho spot Aurora and after spying him sipping wine declares him a “master of chill” — and apparently a fan of truffles. Meanwhile he finds Rayuela packed during an early visit and predicts it could be a “serious cocktail destination” with some tweaks. [Bloomberg]
Related: Rayuela Mixologist Junior Merino to Uncork His Latino Cocktail Program on Friday
Unsurprisingly, Andrea Strong runs into Mr. Cutlets at Hill Country and finds him clutching a package of swaddled meat like a protective father. She shares his enthusiasm for what she says is some of the best barbecue she’s ever had. Bottom line: “Wow, this place is awesome.” [Strong Buzz]
“Dining Briefs” takes the A train to Inwood’s Park Terrace Bistro and finds “there wasn’t a misstep on the platter.” The Moroccan menu’s only flaw is a bland vegetable tagine which was taken off the bill in any case. [NYT]
Sietsema jumps into the fray of four hotly competing Korean chicken-and-beer joints on Northern Boulevard and declares KyoChon the victor, with its whole chicken and vanilla-laced coleslaw. [VV]
“Heaving pork dish” alert: Tito Rad’s Grill and Restaurant in Woodside serves char-grilled pork belly and other Philippine goodness. [NYDN]
