I really hope if anyone has walked by this place and thought “maybe I’ll try it” that this review convinces them to! This was my third time here, the first 2 times I came to grab a coffee and get some work done. I remember being blown away by how perfect the iced dirty chai with oat milk was because sometimes you order one and it’s just not it! I almost expected it to be bad the second time because I was thinking no way it can be as good as it was the first time, but it was just as perfect. I fell in love with the simple and natural ambiance of the restaurant, and so I was going to grab bagels but thought why not get brunch at Emilia next door! The chef was so welcoming and sweet, the drinks were perfect, service was fantastic, and the food was INCREDIBLE. Such a rich seasonal veggie quiche and the flavors on the charred peach ricotta toast were in perfect harmony. We got a cafe con limon which was a pleasant surprise and adventure on the tastebuds, 11/10 recommend, and an iced dirty chai, of course! I want to come here for dinner soon and I look forward to Emilia getting the love...
Read moreAbsolutely perfect restaurant gem in East Village! I can't express enough how much I love Emilia by Nai and the team who works here - manager (Raul is the best!!), servers, chefs - everyone is incredibly warm and produces such a fantastic experience from ambiance to delicious foods. I don't say this lightly, but as an avid NYC eater and someone who is known to give restaurant recommendations to family and friends, this is an absolute must go-to.
Please dont sleep on the mushroom katsu sandwich - was one of the few times I've had a true "Remy the Ratatouille" moment where I had to close my eyes to savor each layer of flavor. The sauces and aiolis at Emilia are unmatched and everything from vegetable side dishes to their renowed paellas - I could go on for ages! Such a lovely lovely time and please go check out Emilia and give it...
Read moreEmilia by Nai is highly underrated! I ate here on a Friday evening (party of two) and there were several empty tables. We loved everything and were very pleasantly surprised! Our favorite dish was the garlic shrimp, they somehow managed to elevate such a simple dish. We also loved the grilled octopus, the croquettas, and even the potatoes were a more delicious version of such a Spanish staple. The special on that day was a battered katsu sandwich which I also recommend. Chef Ruben was on-site and chatted with us for a while, explaining the dishes and his history. He offered us a chocolate cake for dessert, which we devoured despite feeling full after dinner - it was just too good!! We drank gin & tonics which were also very good and...
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