Craftbar

Craftbar (and other Craft restaurants) was opened by Tom Colicchio. (Not sure if he still owns/runs the business). Tom Colicchio opened Gramercy Tavern with Danny Myer many years ago before opening his own restaurants. His gained his celebrity status since hosting Bravo channel's Top Chef.
 
It was another one of those spur of the moment thing that led me to Craftbar. Again, as in any of the "named brand" restaurant, what struck me first is the space and decor. It has a very cool, young and trendy vibe (good date spots). Our server isn't the friendliest, she has a "pissed-off" face. Perhaps because we didn't order drinks or she just had a bad day. Someone need to tell her to get rid of the attitude.

After doing some research beforehand, i have decided to order chorizo sage leaves starter. Although it says "small plate" on the menu, it is definitely to be shared with 4 people!! The chorizo is wrapped with sage leaves and deep fried. It is delicious. Is there a way to not make chorizo delicious? Maybe when it is raw.

Next up,  the menu calls it "confit berkshire pork shoulder, tomato molasses, smoked pearl onion". I simply called it "braised pork, asian style". Confit? really? Berkshire? Is this necessary? That said, i thoroughly enjoyed this dish. You have to wrap the meat with the lettuce leaf they provide. Again, it is suppose to be an appetizer, but big enough to be shared with four people.

After eating 4 chorizos and half a pound of berkshire pork, do I still have space for my pasta dish? Barely. I ordered a lamb ragu pappardelle while my friend ordered the goat cheese ravioli. The goat cheese ravioli is too "goat-y" for my liking. While the pappardelle is a little dry, the lamb ragu is just fine, nothing spectacular.

Overall, good food, generous portion, perfect for group dinner.

With so many restaurant options in the city, I don't think I will be revisiting Craftbar anytime soon.