Kara's Profile
- Kara Zuaro
- 2001
- 2004
- Brooklyn
- Carroll Gardens
- Rental
- writer and cookbook author
- Female
- 30
- http://www.karazuaro.com/
Author's Posts
July 2, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Carroll Gardens Classic Diner
Carroll Gardens Classic Diner (formerly known as Salonike) gets an A from the Brooklyn Diners blog, which describes the servers as "Friendly and accommodating; they don't care how long you sit there and they're not eye-roll-y about special requests... Very peaceful place to sit with a coffee and a glass of juice and read a book on a weekday morning."
Gothamist's Hungry Cabbie is also a big fan of the place: "Even their coleslaw and pickles are delicious. But it is their reuben sandwich that calls me to Salonike like a siren. The corned beef melts in my mouth along with the plentiful cheese and the sour kraut is crunchy enough to survive the piping hot sandwich."
Chowhound Larry Brooks says, "I think their matzo ball soup is wonderful. VERY standard diner fare but dependable." And fellow 'Hound mjr_inthegardens describes it simply: "Clean, Friendly, 24 hours." How would you rate Carroll Gardens Classic Diner?
July 1, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Tripoli
"Eating at Tripoli on a Friday night, you might be one of only two groups in the place. But the staff of this family-run Lebanese eatery don’t seem bothered: They’ve been serving their native cuisine in this Brooklyn Heights spot since the early ’70s, and they aren’t going anywhere," says Time Out New York.
"The bi-level space is cavernous, laden in hand-carved wood with 20-foot ceilings and walls covered in murals of—you guessed it—the shores of Tripoli. It would take the population of a small village to make the room bustle. But with arguably the best regional food on the strip, why isn't Tripoli packed nightly? The kibbee nayeh could induce a mob: ground raw lamb drenched in Lebanese olive oil that deliquesces once it hits the tongue," writes T Sahara Meer for New York magazine.
But Yelper Alexis W. isn't impressed by the food at Tripoli: "I got the lamb kabob and my boyfriend got the chicken. It comes served with rice and a dinky salad. And hummus and pita to start. Absolutely fine, but $15 is a lot to pay for strictly fine, especially when there are loads of other Middle Eastern restaurants down the street with the same food for much less." How would you rate this place?
Brooklyn Food & Drink Round-Up
"Yo dude.... A new taco place opened. No, i have no idea. It just appeared. Sick, right?" -- Jam It Down Your Throat
New Mexican Fare for Smith Street
Since Calexico opened last week, a bunch of Chowhounds and local bloggers have been raving about it. But in the meantime, with no fanfare whatsoever, a taco and torta joint called Oaxaca opened in the old Handmade space at 251 Smith Street (near Douglass). Blogger Jam It Down Your Throat says it's a work-in-progress (they don't even have a griddle yet) but recommends the pork taco, which is "shredded, pretty juicy and gets a nice spicy kick from the sauce."
Openings and Gossip
The New York Times says that the Saul Boulton, the chef and owner of Saul, along with "Ben Daitz, a partner in Num Pang Sandwich Shop" plans to open an "informal place" called The Vanderbilt sometime this fall at 570 Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights... Eater says that Lot 2 is opening today "in the old Kitchen Bar space on 6th and 20th... The chef, Scott Bridi, is a Gramercy Tavern and 'ino alum and is serving up items like Neck three Ways, olive oil poached cod, a mysterious dish called 'lipstick on a pig,' and 'low and slow' plate with brisket, pork jowl, and lamb rib." ...Time Out's weekly opening report includes a new Mediterranean seafood spot called Aqualis Grill is set to open at 773 Fulton Street in Fort Greene, as well as Vue Restaurant and Lounge on the eighth floor of Park Slope’s Hotel Le Bleu. This New American spot will have outdoor patio seating and access to the roof deck... And Grub Street says Brooklyn Bowl should open this week.
A New Farmer's Market on 4th Avenue and Carroll Street
A tipster tells us that Root Hill Cafe started running a farmer's market over the weekend: "They're going to have it going from 2-7 on Fridays and 9-3 on Saturdays, though they may take off for 4th of July weekend. So far, they have one vendor from the Hudson Valley, but they're looking to get other farmers involved (they have permits for the front & side of the building)."
After the jump: A couple of closings and the Times review of Diner...
June 30, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Williamsburger
"Get past the punny name and the antiseptic, vaguely retro yellow interior, and you'll be treated to a classic, if unremarkable Hereford-beef grind served on a soft sesame bun with a side of fries... The brightly lit joint also serves up 'Doggies,' Mom's Secret Family Recipe coleslaw, and steaming hot pierogi," writes Sarah Horne for New York magazine.
Yelper Mio M. says, "Absolutely love the asian chicken burger. Most of their food seems to be a little on the spicy side but that's probably the worst thing I can say about them. The delivery is really speedy, and the people who work their are super nice!" As for the side dishes, The Great Burger Conquest says, "Chili fries were pretty decent but the curry fries were awesome. They're covered in curry powder and bursting with flavor." How would you rate this place?
June 29, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Brooklyn Bread Cafe
Brooklyn Bread was recommended by our own Shoots and Leaves when we asked for Restaurant of the Day nominations: "I've never had such a strong reaction to a sandwich. Best sandwich I've ever had." Tina Barry for The Brooklyn Paper writes, "Brooklynites who frequent Paneantico Bakery and Cafe in Bay Ridge and Royal Crown Pastry Shop in Bensonhurst are familiar with [baker Sal] Scudero’s artisanal loaves and light hand with pastry. At The Brooklyn Bread Cafe he’s piling up focaccia and baking all manner of Italian sweet treats."
"The main squeeze here is the bread-- get it by the loaf, the bagel, the sandwich, the french toast, and on and on," writes Yelper Preeti B. Fellow Yelper aitsu i. adds, "The sandwiches are the real winners here. They are sick. They use great ingredients, make excellent bread, and get the proportions right. Breakfast OR lunch... The only letdown, and this is a serious one, is that the coffee sucks... I wish almost every day that Brooklyn Bread would take care of things and get the brewing sorted out. " How do you feel about Brooklyn Bread?
June 26, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Naidre's
Naidre's in Park Slope was recommended to us by gemini10, and the Naidre's in Carroll Gardens gets a thumbs up from Ljubitca. New York magazine's Drew Pisarra describes the Park Slope location: "Naidre's dining area is so small—six tiny tables—that customers quickly realize securing a seat isn't always an option. This counter deli and breakfast nook is primarily for folks on the go."
Time Out New York describes the Carroll Gardens branch: "Tin ceilings and shelves lined with antique Argentine cookie jars and old coffeepots give the place a general-store vibe—although a salvaged bakery sign indicates that this spot was once the bakery that Cher made famous in Moonstruck. The same goods served in the Slope are scrawled on a chalkboard menu with a few comfort-food additions like turkey meatloaf, mac and cheese, and burgers."
"The gourmet sandwich menu is full of slight twists on the originals. The TBLT, turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomato with herb mayo on a thick ciabatta bread, satisfies the hearty appetite. For a lighter bite, try the tangy tarragon chicken salad on a thin slice of multigrain bread," writes Citysearch's Erin Behan. How would you rate this place?
June 25, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Amorina
Amorina in Prospect Heights was recommended to us by Fjorder, and AlwaysEating claims that it serves "the best pizza in the nabe, and is easily the holder of the best slices. It's hard to resist their slice special, two square slices and a Boylan's soda for $5, one of the better deals I've found in Park Slope or Prospect Heights."
"Ruth Kaplan, the pizzaiola, produces almost perfectly charred and crispy crusts, and creates their toppings with an eye to detail... A Gorgonzola pie with pears and figs was creamy and only slightly sweet, despite a drizzle of dark honey, while a Siciliana pie successfully married the acidic tang of orange slices to lightly caramelized onions and fennel," writes Andrea Thompson for the New Yorker.
New York magazine adds, "Homey pastas like spaghetti and meatballs perfectly suit the cozy room, which has been outfitted with red-checked-cloth-covered tables, salvaged menu boards, and [owner Albano] Ballerini’s grandmother’s yellowing invoices and receipts." How would you rate this place?
June 24, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Caracas Arepa Bar
An offshoot of the East Village arepa bar that beat out Bobby Flay in a Throwdown!, Caracas Brooklyn serves up Venezuelan fare in Williamsburg. "The Brooklyn space is far larger than its Manhattan sibling (75 seats, not counting the patio that will open in spring) and has a more artsy, ramshackle vibe due to touches like oversized prints of Caracas and walls of unfinished, reclaimed lumber," writes Keith Wagstaff for The Feedbag.
"What are these arepas, you ask? Think of them as a hybrid of a sandwich, a burrito, and a muffin. They come stuffed with chicken, beef, chorizo, or tofu and lots of cheesy goodness. There is a secret sauce kept on the table that is so wonderful and spicy that you might be tempted to sneak it out in your tote bag," writes Kerri Anderson for the Examiner. OffManhattan notes that bottles of the sauce are available for $7.50 and besides arepas, Caracas serves: "Pabellón Criollo, the Venezuelan national rice dish comprised of shredded beef, beans, and plantains topped with crumbled cheese."
The Young and Hungry adds, "The Yoyos, fried sweet plantain balls stuffed with white cheese, come with a molasses dipping sauce and are also delicious." And we recommend washing your meal down with a papelón con limón (Venezuelan limeade) and ordering the obleas (dulce de leche sandwiched between two very thin, round wafers) for a light dessert. How would you rate this place?
Brooklyn Food & Drink Round-Up
Calexico Carne Asada Is Open!
22 Union St. nr. Columbia St.; (718) 488-8226
This long-awaited restaurant from the brothers who run the Calexico street carts opened yesterday afternoon — and we just snapped some photos of the interior. The owners say the menu is still evolving, and Calexico Twitter page says, "We will only be open for lunch for the first few days but by next week or so we will be open for dinner!!"
More Openings and Gossip
Reis 100 Sandwich Factory will open tomorrow at 375-B Fifth Ave. in Park Slope next to Bar Reis, says Grub Street, and its menu will include 100 mini-sandwiches priced from $3.50 to $5... BushwickBK reports that Phorum has opened at 50 Starr Street at the corner of Wilson Avenue in Bushwick and is serving pizzas, pastas, salads, and main courses that feature local, organic ingredients... El Matador is now open and serving Spanish-Latin American BYOB at 795 Grand St., nr. Bushwick Ave. in East Williamsburg, says Grub Street... Time Out says that Brooklyn Bowl is opening this week at 61 Wythe Ave. between North 11th and 12th Streets in Williamsburg... And A Brooklyn Life notes, "The storefront that used to be Chicory looks to be opening soon (at least by the peek through the window). Although the appearance of warming trays has us a bit confused as to what kind of food will be served."
Barrette Will Close This Weekend
601 Vanderbilt Ave (at Bergen St), Prospect Heights; (718) 230-5170
The Feed reports, "Owner Erica Crawford confirms that our favorite Prospect Heights burlesque-bar-cum-cocktail-den Barrette is closing for good this weekend... Bid the place goodbye this Sunday when Barrette will be bleeding out the last of their kegs—drafts are $1 to the bitter end."
After the jump: A grocery store with a $70 tasting menu, a new Turkish spot for Coney Island, and a burglary in Greenpoint...
June 23, 2009
Restaurant of the Day: Dawg Shack
Grilled, boiled, or fried Sabrett hot dogs are the main event at Dawg Shack, but according to the Brooklyn Paper, the menu "also features pastrami heroes, chicken cutlet sandwiches and hamburgers." When the restaurant first opened in the fall of '08, owner Jose Maldonado told the local paper, “I’m a little spontaneous about what goes on the menu... Yesterday, I made brisket. Today, I made chicken cutlet. I’m trying to think of what I’m gonna make tomorrow.”
A Brooklyn Life says, "Prices are reasonable: $1.75 for a plain one, $2 for a sauerkrat and onion-topped New York dog, $3 for a onion, lettuce, tomato and pickle-topped Chicago dog, $3 for an onion, ketchup, mustard and jalepeno-topped California dog, $3 for a bacon, cheese, mushroom and barbecue sauce-topped Texas dog, and $2.50 for a chili dog, plus an extra .25 cents for cheese."
"We ordered a chili cheese dog with an order of fries and to our delight he grabbed a fresh potato and sliced up a new batch... Not only are the fries made from fresh potatoes, but his chili is homemade with green peppers and ground beef. Everything else is also made to order so don’t expect fast-food," writes E.C. Stephens for Gowanus Lounge. What are your thoughts on this place?
Author's Comments
Kara wrote a review about Hammond's Bakery & Jerk Center on May 13, 2009 1:22 PM
Crownheightser -- you're right; that Plate of the Day quote was wrong, but I corrected it. The photo is new, though! I took it on Monday, and I highly recommend this place. My husband said he hasn't had jerk chicken this good since the last time he was in Jamaica.
Kara wrote a review about Rancho Alegre on April 17, 2009 1:38 PM
gemini10 - I've been writing for Brownstoner and the Brooklyn Record for years and that's the nicest comment I've ever gotten. Awww. Thanks for the reviews, guys, and happy Friday!
gemini10: I love a good diner, and I'd be glad to run a post on the Usual. We're hoping to include all the everyday go-to spots, as well as the big-night-out restaurants.
Posted by: Kara at April 13, 2009 12:21 PM in response to Nominate Your Favorite Restaurants
chrishavens - Great suggestions. We've already posted a bunch of your favorites, so feel free to write some reviews:
Chesnut: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/10/chestnut.php
Good Fork: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/10/the_good_fork.php
Jack the Horse: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/09/restaurant_of_the_day_jack_the.php
Henry's End: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/10/henrys_end.php
Five Front: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/10/five_front.php
Stonehome: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/08/stonehome_wine_bar.php
Beast: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/09/beast.php
Tavern on Dean: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2009/01/tavern_on_dean.php
Brooklyn Fish Camp: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/08/brooklyn_fish_camp.php
Fragole: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/09/fragole.php
Posted by: Kara at April 13, 2009 12:14 PM in response to Nominate Your Favorite Restaurants
dirty hipster - Thanks for the ideas. I've got a bunch of Williamsburg spots coming up, and I've already posted Peter Luger (http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/07/peter_luger.php) and Diner (http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/08/diner.php). I'm into your bar-of-the-day idea (or at least a bar-of-the-week post), but I've got to take that up with the boss!
Posted by: Kara at April 13, 2009 12:07 PM in response to Nominate Your Favorite Restaurants
No worries, dave. It's not easy to keep track of all these restaurants!
Posted by: Kara at April 13, 2009 11:51 AM in response to Nominate Your Favorite Restaurants
These are great suggestions. Please keep 'em coming! And daveinbedstuy -- Jolie has already been listed: http://www.brownstoner.com/restaurants/2008/10/jolie.php
Posted by: Kara at April 13, 2009 11:39 AM in response to Nominate Your Favorite Restaurants
Kara wrote a review about Yemen Cafe on March 4, 2009 8:24 AM
Oops -- I messed up the tag on this one, but I'm aware that it's a Middle Eastern spot and I made the change.
Hey, thanks for your kind words, Danny. I handle the restaurant reviews and weekly food and drink posts here, and I'm so happy that we've helped you discover some great food!
Posted by: Kara at February 25, 2009 1:16 PM in response to Brooklyn Food & Drink Round-Up
Kara wrote a review about Tanoreen on November 11, 2008 12:28 PM
rubytoday - Tanoreen is moving just a few blocks away to a larger space at 7523 3rd Avenue. We'll update this listing when they move.
Kara wrote a review about Osaka on October 20, 2008 2:12 PM
That's interesting that the old Osaka chef now runs Ki -- thanks for the tip, spnder. We'll have to check that place out soon. I'm still pretty into Osaka's black pepper roll (even though it's very American-ized) and they have a decent lunch special -- a bunch of lunch box options for under $10, or two specialty half-rolls, miso soup, and a salad for $9.
Yes, yes, you're absolutely right -- sorry about the typo!
Posted by: Kara at October 8, 2008 11:56 AM in response to Brownstoner Food & Drink Round-Up
Kara wrote a review about Scottadito Osteria Toscana on September 17, 2008 9:58 AM
I think the best thing about Scottadito is the atmosphere. I went to a press event in their wine cellar when the place first opened, and it was a really great space -- perfect for a small party. I've been back a couple of times for dinner, and the desserts (like house-made ice cream and tiramisu) were memorable and really good.
Kara wrote a review about Sette Enoteca e Cucina on September 2, 2008 4:55 PM
Biff Champion: I just got back to my desk after the long weekend, and I just saw your suggestion from Friday and your remark from earlier today. I absolutely have covered restaurants that aren't located on 5th Ave/7th Ave/Smith Street (Alma, Christie's Jamaican Patties, the Smoke Joint, Habana Outpost, Lucali, Diner, Dressler, and DuMont, to name a few) and there will be more of them in the future.
Kara wrote a review about Lunetta on August 26, 2008 5:34 PM
brookjoo: You're right -- while the portions are larger than tapas-sized plates, they do serve smaller-than-average portions here. Part of the fun is to order a couple of vegetables sides for the table to round out the meaty options -- or build a customized meal by sharing some salad, cheese, veggies, and pasta.
Anyway, thanks for bringing this to our attention. I just made a note about the small plates-sized portions next to the median price listing.
Kara wrote a review about Zaytoons on July 24, 2008 1:07 PM
I've been frequenting the Smith Street location for about 7 years now -- and of all the restaurants on Smith Street, this is the one where I feel the most at home. I love their fluffy pita bread, their hummus, their moujadarra (rice and lentil salad), their falafel, their Turkish salad, and their BYOB policy. And if you want a cheap lunch, it's hard to beat the Zaytoons Veggie Sandwich (hummus, babghanouj and tabouleh rolled in a pita) for $4, or a bowl of lentil soup for $4.50.
Left Hook: I understand your point, but I do believe that our new restaurant feature can offer one thing the other food sites can't. It allows Brooklyn restaurants to be rated against each other – by people who actually live here. On those other sites, our mom-and-pop shops are held up against some of the best restaurants in the world. And so many local hang-outs are reviewed in regard to whether they're "worth a trip to Brooklyn." Personally, I just want to know how neighborhood restaurants compare to the other options in the general vicinity – and whether they're worth walking a few extra blocks. I hope some of you feel the same way.
Posted by: Kara at July 14, 2008 2:06 PM in response to Introducing the Brownstoner Restaurant Ratings Feature
I'm so bummed to hear this news about Paninoteca! Thanks for letting us know, lifer -- now at least I can get one more papa pomodoro and eggplant panini...
Posted by: Kara at June 24, 2009 1:54 PM in response to Brooklyn Food & Drink Round-Up