14B Orchard Street (between Canal and Hester Sts.) 646-596-9142 www.barbellynyc.com
Tapas. How happy would I be if I could start every meal with a grilled cheese sandwich? Pretty ecstatic if each were lovingly prepared by bar belly (aged cheddar, house pickle). Oysters are their thing here, but even if they aren’t yours, you’ll still be very glad you came.
The special of the night was peekytoe crab gratin (same amazing cheese, crispy leeks) and it, too, was blissfully delicious. I also tried rock shrimp skagen (shrimp salad) and a black bass ceviche, further proof of their astute knowledge of fish. Just as impressive, though, was the eggplant caponata. The bowl is generous (which I appreciated ten times more after taking one bite).
Their varied creations include kale Caesar, scotch egg, duck fat fries – and I have every confidence they’re just as rewarding as the tapas I tried. You might ask that the plates be brought gradually. All the more time to enjoy the menu and live jazz performed in your midst. Those two guitars were sweet. And so is an evening at bar belly.