NYC Tastes

Leyenda is my go-to spot in Brooklyn for just about any occasion.  They have an incredible cocktail program from the great Julie Reiner of the Clover Club and just recently her protege Ivy Mix won Best American Bartender at Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans. I usually start with the Tia Mia a blend of mezcal, Jamaican rum, orange curaco, lime and orgeat.  It's got a spicy tropical little kick that always makes me feel like I'm on a beach somewhere far away. Of course the food at Leyenda is just as strong as their drink program.  I love their Chicken Mole Enchiladas at dinner but for brunch I usually stick with the Huevos Divorciados; two poached eggs topped with salsa verde & roja served with a bright champagne vinaigrette salad (subbed in for homefries).  It's pretty much the perfect way to start off the weekend. Leyenda 221 Smith Street Brooklyn, NY 11201

Cocktails from Julie Reiner of Clover Club and the promise of churros were the two reasons I found myself at Leyenda.  This cozy little spot in Cobble Hill just oozes with such a warm festive atmosphere I immediately know it's going to be a great night when I start here. There's a cocktail for everyone on this list; the Buena Onda with Yerba Mate infused pisco for a little pick me up, the Brooklyn Burro for a taste of the tropics or the Pan-Am Sour with Cachaca, bourbon, lemon, orange with a Malbec float for when you just feel like getting a little bit crazy :) There's small plates perfect for sharing like Spinach & Manchego Empanadas, Pupusas and rich Ham & Cheese Croquetas with bechemel and chilies. In addition to a few larger plates like the Churasco Skirt Steak that's charred to a gorgeous crisp on the outside with a red belly.  We always get the chimichurri sauce on the side for Mr. T 's cilantro allergy (heehee just more for...