beetrock

Among the many Brooklyn middle-eastern take out heavens, this one stands the ground of its own. A tiny seating space accommodates about 10 to 15 customers right alongside the kitchen, giving the place a homey feel. I usually go with a simple green salad – presence of artichokes and fresh feta making it a special. D and I took my parents there, and while everyone went with lam and chicken I opted for a tuna wrap. Despite the generic name, my meal didn’t disappoint – the fish was spiced and flavorful and my first course of lentil soup warm and tasty enough to put our whole family in a good mood. Our sprits, further lifted by two bottles of wine purchased at the nearby Smith and Vine, called for a finishing touch of baklava. The place is BYOB which makes it not only a delightful, but also a cheap eat.

Address:
283 Smith St.
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Map

Ahh New York, New York, I am definitely here. All of my sleepy misconceptions about my location on planet Earth were erased this morning when my A train got evacuated because of some “crime suspect in the last car.” After battling the labyrinths of Broadway Nassau with crowds of fellow Big Applers, I got to another train and arrived to work half an hour late.  I couldn’t help but feel slightly provincial coming from tiny Budapest. As my 2 express was speeding through stations I thought that perhaps when I come back next, I will have that scared and resigned-to-unpredictable-and-cruel- fate look that New York tourists often have when traveling via subway. Let’s hope not!

I have to say that nothing warms up your pallet after two weeks of liquid foods, like a bowl of delicious gnocchi. And if it’s Noodle Pudding-made it’s bound to be tasty. Italian dishes to one heart’s content plus good, well-priced wine, followed by well chosen dessert – who could ask for more? Not me! D and I shared an appetizer of smoked mozzarella and grilled artichokes, which was also a great treat for my toothless mouth starved for flavor. Read more…

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Despite its prohibitive title, this 60s-styled diner bar on Smith street is vegetarian friendly and features a menu of usual suspects with a special twist. Our “corn beef hash,” mine sans beef of course, came as a delicious mix of potatoes, roasted beets and onions. Read more…

Lydia and I came here for a night cap after our recent Brooklyn escapade. Lydia was lured in by the sounds of live music. I was lured in purely by the sighting of alcohol. Though in the past I was always quick to make fun of Bar Tabac for its overly hipster-like patrons, this time I immediately appreciated the friendly staff, the fun atmosphere and the special attention that we got from the bartender. Read more…