Phenomenal pasta and clever cocktails. I'm really surprised this place has managed to fly under the radar of the media "uncovering hidden gems" and "discovering the Catskills" - but as long as they can continue to succeed that way, it's probably for the better.
These pictures don't do the flavors justice, but the cintura di pizzo was a revelation. Looked like tripe, tasted like a treat . The buccatini nero was also delicious, and the not so classic caesar was a crowd hit, with its griddled leaves, creamy dressing, and whole anchovies.
Tough to choose between the well-crafted cocktails and the feeling that wine is a lovely accompaniment to these pastas. Only solution is to start with a cocktail and then get some wine. The Curious Wonder is what I'd call a Mexican Vesper, with tequila and mezcal swapping in for the vodka and gin, and it works nicely as an aperitivo (personally I'd serve it up instead of on the rocks, but that's an inconsequential quibble). The "Kungfu" Malbec was solid, though it would be great to see one or two more adventurous options on the wine list. The liquor shelf, though, is very well stocked with interesting selections, so I'd recommend sitting at the bar if you want to explore.
Absolutely worth making a detour...
Read moreGoing to any restaurant opening on night could be a lesson on patience and understanding but EIGHTYmain had all systems GO.
From our friendly, knowledgeable waiter, Robert to each beautiful plated and delicious meal.
The restuarant is decorated with wood and black accents not in typical upstate vibe. It's was fine dining in a laid-back chic environment. When you enter you will find the full kithen in view as you walk back to the dining area.
Best of all, you can have a conversation without shouting even at the full bar.
Of course I had to indulge in one of the signatures cocktails the "Stumbling Aristocrat" made with Azul Tay Tea. For dinner I had the Strozzapretti, please don't ask me to pronounce it for you just enjoy😉. Homemade squid ink pasta with prawns, pork belly and tornato. The not typical Caesar is not to be missed with anchovies you can see on a halfed grilled romaine wedge. The chicken was crispy and tender thighs on a scallion potato cake with chimichurri yogurt sauce. For dessert with had the Churros which were golden bites of heaven, and the Panna cotta topped with cake crumbs, flowers and honey jelly. If the dessert didn't give it away Eightymain is a blend of Italian and Latin favors.
Not to be missed. See you...
Read moreWe were passing through town and made a reservation here because of the raving reviews, but we felt our personal experience fell short. Really, our meal was at the pace of the server and we didn’t waste time. We did inquire about a menu item while ordering (the tasting) and ultimately decided against it; however we were surprised when we were told that it wouldn’t be an option anyway because we didn’t have enough time for the full experience, as there was another reservation following immediately after ours. We even ate pretty quickly once the food was delivered to the table, but unfortunately we didn’t have time for dessert at our table. We were given the option to sit at the bar and decided to get it to go. The waitress was polite about it but we were a bit disappointed and it’s something we’ve never experienced before. It just seems like the reservation system isn’t really designed to appropriately accommodate the dining experience (or the service needs to be sped up to fit within 90 minutes). The food was a bit bland for our liking, but not to say others wouldn’t like it. It’s worth trying...
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