NYC News

Mardi Gras Tastes for Foodies Big Muffuletta with chips at the Bayou. -Photo by Morris Gut By Morris Gut Manhattan Voice February 3, 2024 FOOD - ‘LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER’! Let the good times roll! Carnival season has begun all over the globe. Mardi Gras will culminate on Fat Tuesday, February 13th. If you want to take in some of the revelry here are some local suggestions… NEW ORLEANS & SOUTHERN STYLE MARDI GRAS DISHES & VENUES! They’re calling it a ‘soft opening’. But Crawdaddy’s Creole Kitchen, 68 Wheeler Ave., Pleasantville, was jumping when we first walked in, past the Voodoo Lounge and to the bar. It’s the newest spot in town bursting with the flavors and vibes of The Big Easy. Tempting bites include Pimiento Cheese, Popcorn Shrimp, Crawfish Mac & Cheese, Po’ Boys, Seafood Gumbo, and Fry Baskets. Partners Michael Boulos, Veronica Kallas, Maria & Anthony Amato are planning special treats during their Mardi Gras celebration. 914-449-6199 www.crawdaddy

Enjoy hot bites like wings, clams and other summer faves. -Photo by Morris Gut By Morris Gut Manhattan Voice August 19, 2023 FOOD - Imer Rraci and his veteran team have reimagined the former La Riserva, a lovely setting for the Italian classics. Named after an island off the coast of Venice, Chef Avni turns out such winning dishes as: colorful Mozzarella Caprice; Eggplant Rollatini; Rigatoni Bolognese in a meat sauce; Risotto Di Funghi with porcini; Veal Martini; classic Rack of Lamb; and delicious Pollo Torcello, topped with applewood bacon and melted fresh mozzarella in a light bourbon mushroom sauce. Rraci has spent years working for the former Giambelli in Manhattan, and Valbella in Old Greenwich, CT. Open 7 days for dinner starting at 4:30 p.m. Bar/cocktails. Outdoor patio. Free parking. Torcello, 2382 Boston Post Road, Larchmont. 914-833-1118 www.torcellolarchmont.com  LENO’S CLAM BAR STILL GOING STRONG! Here is a summer food stop worth making. I started going to Leno’