It had been a while since I'd seen my friend Jenn and we were more than overdue for the comforts of gal chatter over vino and such. I figured we'd end up at one of our usual downtown meeting spots, but instead Jenn surprised me by picking a West Village wine bar that had yet to make it onto my radar screen: Zampa.
Located a stone's throw away from the chaos of the Meatpacking District, Zampa's ziz-zag wooden-topped bar, chalkboard signs, fanciful foodstuff wall drawings and modern sensibilities were all inviting. So was my adorable bartender.
A glass of ruby red Primitivo? Why, yes!
Once Ms. Jenn sashayed through the door and grabbed the barstool next to me, all thoughts of flirting went out the window (almost). We were two ladies in dire need of a catch-up session.
A bottle would be necessary. Primitivo? Why, yes!
Nevertheless, some sustenance was called for as well. Slices of smoky Speck were devoured, as were soft, sultry Artichoke Hearts and bits of salty cheese.
The wine was going down easy. Very easy. Too easy.
Yet, there was much more to discuss and chew over. The only remedy? Something more to chew ON. Something more substantial than antipasti. Thankfully, our charming bartender knew just the ticket: a dinner special of garlicky Cotechino Pork Sausage with Stewed Lentils and Egg, topped with buttery, crisp Breadcrumbs. It didn't sound like your typical wine bar fare, but that's what made it sound so darn appealing.
One look at the hearty casserole (pictured above) and we knew we'd left the land of urbane antipasti and headed straight into an Old World mama's rustic Italian kitchen. One taste and we knew we were in the presence of the ultimate breakfast dish -- zesty and nutty with the velvety oozing goodness of egg yolk enriching every bite.
Then again, it did go awfully well with red wine.
Now, I'm wondering how other breakfast faves like cottage cheese and melon might go with red wine.
Hmmm...Somehow, I think it's probably best to skip that one. But, then again, if that cute bartender suggested the combo, I believe I'd give it a whirl!
Comments