Epistrophy
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 966-0904
- Cross Street:
- Between Kenmare Street and Spring Street
- Directions:
- J, M, Z at Bowery; 6 at Spring St
- Hours:
- Tue-Sun 6pm-1am
Editorial Review for Epistrophy – by Karen Hudes
The Scene
An intimate, drawing room feel arises from this wine cafe's low lighting, brick walls and a dark wood bookshelf displaying wine bottles, cookbooks and a vintage globe. French jazz plays as the clientele, both young and more maturely aged, lingers in the cushioned window seats and around the tables for pairs and groups.
The Draw
Sardinian owners Luca Fadda and Giorgia Zedda serve a thoughtful selection of Italian and international wines by the glass. Dry reds such as Primitivo, Rioja and a long-finishing Valpolicella join Vermentino, Riesling and Portuguese vinha verde whites, as well as rosés, ports and sparkling wines. Salads and plates of cheese with cold cuts and fruits complement the drinks, but the toasty, shareable crostoni hold the most interesting combinations: dry sausage and melted pecorino; anchovy, tomato and bottarga (dried roe); and ham and fontina with a kick of pomegranate.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkAbout 30 wines are served by the glass, carafe and bottle, but six "riserva" wines, including Turriga, Amarone and Barbaresco, are offered by the bottle only. The bar also serves beer, organic espresso, tea and hot chocolate.
When to GoBreakfast and lunch mean panini, croissants and soups. Fadda, who named the bar for a Thelonius Monk composition, is a also musician who plans seasonal, three-day music festivals in the space.
The ExtrasHop the surrounding boutiques of Nolita.
User Reviews for Epistrophy
09/30/2008 Posted by Solo500
I had completely different experiences here depending on who the server was. The first time I stopped for drinks and had a delightful evening. So I brought 2 friends back and had horrendous, attitude filled service that was spectacularly dismissive and rude. The room is fun and the winelist is good, but I could never recommend this place.
Pros: Cool space, reasonably priced interesting winelist
Cons: lameass bartender from hell who will ruin your meal
09/30/2008 Posted by acg2008
The food is great, the atmosphere is lovely, and prices are very reasonable. The mezze platters are the best deal around - great cheese, a small is enough to feed two people. The service is not phenomenal so you might have to be a little proactive when you need something.
