City Guide: New York
Balaboosta
In addition to the terrific “Mediterranean-meets-Middle East” fare, this Nolita spot is lovely, warm and intimate.
Balaboosta, a Yiddish term that roughly translates to “rockin housewife,” may be one of this city’s most wonderful restaurants. It’s certainly one of my longtime favorites. Aside from the terrific “Mediterranean-meets-Middle East” fare, this Nolita spot is lovely—its warm and intimate with low lighting and a sweetness that comes from wife-and-husband team, chef Einat Admony and Stefan Nafziger, who have poured love into its exposed brick walls.
So what to order? Every meal should start with Hummus “Mortar and Pestle” (tahini, roasted garlic, za’atar pita) and the crispy cauliflower that is lemony and toasty and sprinkled with currants and pine nuts. Move on to the Israeli Street Fair platter—chicken and merguez in a pita with amba yogurt, pickles, and sweet potato fries. And the Branzino, served with grilled lemon and Beluga lentils, and a roasted red pepper and almond muhammara. Beef lovers prepare to be converted to lamb lovers with Balaboosta’s burger—a goat cheese stuffed lamb patty, caramelized onions that’s served on a brioche bun. Finish with some Knafeh, Middle Eastern cheesecake with kataif, Persian cotton candy, rose water ice cream, and pistachio.
Israeli Street Fair Platter
- Subway: 6 to Spring Street
Ideal for:
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