Food Review: Vella Restaurant & Wine Bar

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of stopping by Vella for a tapas and cocktail tasting! I love Italian food and being that Vella is actually in my neighborhood; it was a clear win, win! Here in NYC we've been experiencing an Indian summer giving everyone their last push to eat outdoors. Vella has an amazing patio section, perfect for socializing and people watching. For me, good food is just as important as the price! I'm happy to say Vella is 'real person' affordable without losing the class and elegance of a dining out experience!

Now on to the important things…like the food & drinks. My favorite cocktail was the Kissyomama (its spicy & I love a good spicy cocktail). Runner up, the West Egg; its a must try! There wasn't a a dish I didn't enjoy, but were some definite stand outs. The crab cake was delightfully and full of crab. Nothing better than a crabby crab cake! The truffle mac & cheese with or without bacon was insanely good; the bacon just enhances it! The tartars were scrumptious as well, especially the tuna (I'm a seafood person all the way) it was so fresh and perfectly prepared with flavors that harmoniously blended together. Go to Vella's website here or stop by when you're on the upper east side!

Ricotta Lemon Honey & Arugula on Flat Bread

Roasted Wild Mushroom Crostini

Left: Magic Lantern ~ Russian Standard Vodka, Pimm's Cocchi Americano, Muddled Cucumber & Mint, Fresh Leon Juice, Simple Syrup, Topped w/ Ginger Beer & a Strawberry Wedge

Middle: Prosecco ~ Mionetto DOC Venteo, Italy

Right: West Egg ~ Maker's Mark Bourbon, Fresh Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Strawberry, Club Soda