A few weeks ago, Jehangir Mehta's East Village restaurant, Graffiti, was given a twenty-eight(out of thirty) rating for its food. This is a particularly fantastic occurance, because in all of NYC, only 11 restaurants received such high marks. I can't say I was surprised by this at all. I discovered Graffiti two years ago, and have returned many times since. I can say, quite honestly, I've never been disappointed. Yes, it's that good, and one of the reasons that's true is because of how different it is. And it's not different in a gimmicky popular sort of way. Let me try to explain.
The first thing you need to know about Graffiti is that getting there is part of it's charm, especially if you're walking . East Tenth Street is filled with beautiful brownstones and interesting shops. You'll need to watch the building numbers though, or you might walk past Graffiti the first time, like I did.
Once you've stepped inside, however, you know you've arrived somewhere special.
Sure, it's small. Okay, it's really small. However, it is an excellent illustration of how good things come in small packages.
From the subdued lighting coming from the hanging chandelier-like lanterns and the soft background music to the lovely pictures and colorful hangings that adorn the walls, you feel as though you've entered a different world. Chef Mehta himself designed the space himself, and it's evident that everything was selected with great care.
And then, there's the food, which is truly something that has to be experienced. All the appetizers and entrees come on small plates, so they're designed for sharing, but if you go alone, like I often do, two or three of them, along with a dessert are enough for a satisfying meal. The menu is varied, with something for everyone. Most of the items are constant but there are a few dishes that change seasonally. There's also a vegetarian menu along with some gluten free offerings. If you or your party have any special requirements, they will do their best to accomodate you.
I'm including a link to the menu, which describes the offerings far better than I ever could.
http://www.graffitinyc.com/menu/
Some of my favorites are the scallops, and the Graffiti burger. I have to admit though, I'm pretty obsessed with the desserts. Last time I was there, I had something that had just been added to the menu, a pear, poached with spices, and served with home-made marmalade ice cream. Yes, you read right. MARMALADE ICE CREAM. I still think about it.
Finally, I want to talk about what I think is the best thing about Graffiti, and that's the attentiveness of the hosts and the waitstaff. You are greeted warmly the minute you walk in, and they see to it that your experience there is enjoyable. They'll answer any questions you may have, and I appreciate the way they explain each dish you are served. And, if you are lucky to be there when Chef Mehta is in the restaurant, don't be suprised if he actually takes your order, or even brings it out to you. That's just the kind of person he is.
So, if you have a chance, try to dine at Graffiti at least once before you die. It's an experience you will long remember. Maybe I'll see you there .
The first thing you need to know about Graffiti is that getting there is part of it's charm, especially if you're walking . East Tenth Street is filled with beautiful brownstones and interesting shops. You'll need to watch the building numbers though, or you might walk past Graffiti the first time, like I did.
Once you've stepped inside, however, you know you've arrived somewhere special.
Sure, it's small. Okay, it's really small. However, it is an excellent illustration of how good things come in small packages.
From the subdued lighting coming from the hanging chandelier-like lanterns and the soft background music to the lovely pictures and colorful hangings that adorn the walls, you feel as though you've entered a different world. Chef Mehta himself designed the space himself, and it's evident that everything was selected with great care.
And then, there's the food, which is truly something that has to be experienced. All the appetizers and entrees come on small plates, so they're designed for sharing, but if you go alone, like I often do, two or three of them, along with a dessert are enough for a satisfying meal. The menu is varied, with something for everyone. Most of the items are constant but there are a few dishes that change seasonally. There's also a vegetarian menu along with some gluten free offerings. If you or your party have any special requirements, they will do their best to accomodate you.
I'm including a link to the menu, which describes the offerings far better than I ever could.
http://www.graffitinyc.com/menu/
Some of my favorites are the scallops, and the Graffiti burger. I have to admit though, I'm pretty obsessed with the desserts. Last time I was there, I had something that had just been added to the menu, a pear, poached with spices, and served with home-made marmalade ice cream. Yes, you read right. MARMALADE ICE CREAM. I still think about it.
Finally, I want to talk about what I think is the best thing about Graffiti, and that's the attentiveness of the hosts and the waitstaff. You are greeted warmly the minute you walk in, and they see to it that your experience there is enjoyable. They'll answer any questions you may have, and I appreciate the way they explain each dish you are served. And, if you are lucky to be there when Chef Mehta is in the restaurant, don't be suprised if he actually takes your order, or even brings it out to you. That's just the kind of person he is.
So, if you have a chance, try to dine at Graffiti at least once before you die. It's an experience you will long remember. Maybe I'll see you there .
