tasting

One of the many wine boards with an amazing selection of wines. You can also purchase bottles at their wine shop next door.

Compared to summer, winter in South of France can be cold and somewhat deserted, but it’s still ever so charming. Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do to fix the schlep from New York.

Despite being tired, jet lagged, and wet from walking in the rain, we knew our dining option for the evening would be well worth the journey. Off the beaten path, Vinivore is tucked behind the port in Nice, France, on rue Lascaris which is one of those quaint little streets with great restaurants not listed in guide books for fear of being invaded by tourists. Lacking the energy to negotiate the menu and the 400+bottle wine list, we put ourselves in their hands and decided on the five course dégustation menu with wine pairing. Just a light 5 course snack before bed…
The lamb confit…. the most divine lamb we’ve ever had, and the seared tuna with whipped wasabi cream was also a highlight. Risotto was unique – celery instead of rice which was unexpected. The cheese course featured lots of unpasteurized creamy, rich and stinky cheeses, perfect for the winter soul.

Even with my soaking wet feet, I’m a happy customer…

Considering we just popped out for a light bite, we lucked out with Vinivore. Reluctantly, we’ve decided to share the info, just in case you are ever nearby and in need of a meal to feed the senses.

Vinivore
10 rue Lascaris
Nice, France
Tel. +33 (0) 4 93 14 68 09
www.vinivore.fr/

The backless stools and casual, candle lights make it better suited for dates or casual dinner with friends rather than client dinners. Space feels small and narrow but the communal table in the back, sort of open kitchen and high walls give it a warm vibe. Menu is extensive mix of very small plates, all beautifully presented and unique. Since our table was in a “non-sharing” mood, we each did 3 courses (some rogue forks did end up in my plate unfortunately) each, and our wine friend picked out some unique grapes from the 25 page wine list. Fluke sashimi with pomegranate was incredible, and paired well with a super affordable L’ecu Muscadet-Sévre et Maine ($45).

Next course selection for me was pork meatballs – highlight of the meal. Sweetbreads were also a popular selection for the table. We paired the second course with 1976 Catherine and Pierre Breton, chinon ($139) from the Loire Valley – fresh and tasty. Rabbit sausage entrée was unique and delicious, which was washed down with our Bordeaux splurge of the night – 1985 Château L’Arrosée St. Emillion ($220). The wine list has something for every budget and taste, ranging from $45 to well over $1000+++. So depending on the company and who’s picking up the tab, you can choose accordingly.

I loved the plating and presentation, which was well thought out and appeals to all the senses. The vibe is downtown cool – with a great sound system and new wave hits to hum along to. Noise level is juuuuust perfect enough where you can hear your table chatting, and yet not hear strangers next to you. This is quite an art form given the decibel levels in most trendy spots. There’s a strange dynamic in that it’s located right across from the Bowery Mission, but I suppose that’s what is disturbing yet appealing about skid row right now. You are dining in trendy, food forward spots facing the grit of the past. Which makes it quintessentially New York.

Pearl & Ash
220 Bowery (between Prince and Spring)
New York NY 10012
Tel. 212 837 2370

tasting

In vinivoretas…

Pearl and Ash

tasting

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