NYC | A Perfect Year-End Meal 🎉

This dish was so delicious that my friend asked if the sauce contained peanut sauce—prompting our server to immediately ask with concern, “Do you have any food allergies?!” 😳 (A very on-brand reaction in a nut-aware country!) We were then introduced to the Metaxa Bisque sauce, a Greek-inspired blend highlighted by Metaxa spirit. The savory depth comes from lobster and seafood stock, while sweetness is drawn from carrots and tomatoes. The result is a creamy, velvety sauce that coats each strand of al dente squid ink pasta—rich but not heavy, utterly addictive! 🥩 Lamb Chops We ordered them medium—a generous portion of 8 chops perfectly balanced between rich lamb flavor and zero gaminess. The accompanying dolma (grape leaves stuffed with spiced meat and rice) was also a standout. Other dishes were solid and satisfying 💁🏻‍♀️: crispy crackers with a faint fermented-bean-curd saltiness, warm pita with lightly charred edges, creamy tuna tartare, tender grilled octopus (though I prefer it crispier on the edges), and a risotto that reminded me of savory Chinese fried rice—Parmesan edition! The restaurant’s dim lighting sets a romantic mood but does challenge food photographers 📸. Still, the experience was wonderful overall. This Astakomakaronada (yes, the full Greek name is a mouthful!) truly elevated my year-end dining. It got me through a long pre-holiday week—my taste buds and stomach are grateful we met this year, and we’ll definitely be back ☺️. 📍 Nerai #NYC #NYCFood #GreekFood #NYCRestaurants #LobsterPasta #NYCDining #FoodieFavorite #YearEndEats