My friend Aimee, a vegetarian, introduced me to Bustan. It has quite a wonderful selection of eclectic Israeli dishes influenced by the cuisines of Morocco, Tunisia, Greece, and Italy plus NYC’s seasonal ingredients.
Who To Take: a vegetarian friend or someone who loves to pick on Mid-Eastern type foods
A special feature of this restaurant is the custom-built wood-fired brick taboon, a Middle Eastern style oven, with the addition of a rotating base allowing for intense, smoky, and moist results. Chef Jose Paulo Cortes’ experience as a baker allows him to shine here, the fluffy pita breads and others are reason to stop here alone.
Aimee feasted on the Hummus Bowl with wild mushrooms and accompanying foccacia bread. I went for the Lamb Merguez flatbread and Steak Tartare. One of the owners who is quite knowledgeable about wine did shower us with many lush selections. Their cocktails are also designed to complement Mediterranean flavors. A wonderful spot to stop in or get top notch food delivered.
BUSTAN, 487 Amsterdam Ave (btw 83rd/84th Sts)
