My husband and I just celebrated our first marriage anniversary. Naturally we celebrated with tons of delicious meals. The first meal was at Castle Hill Inn, our wedding site. Thanks to my sister-in-law, Sarah's wedding gift, Will and I consumed a decadent three-course tasting with wine pairing. I've been to Castle Hill for dinner several times and each time is better and better. I can't get over the beautiful service, food, and atmosphere Castle Hill has to offer. We feasted on seared foie gras, scallops with lobster, seared swordfish, and roasted duck, with various desserts. While I don't have photos from our romantic dinner, I do have photos (rather dark, so I apologize) from another celebratory dinner at Aroma Kitchen &Wine Bar, the restaurant Will took me to before he proposed.
The day was rainy and humid, but the sunset was spectacular. The image at the top of the post was something I managed to capture before stepping into Aroma. Aroma is a darling, narrow wine bar with exposed brick, and friendly staff that screams romantic. We started with a Sardinian red and a Caesar salad with poached eggs, and warm burrata. What a decadent way to enjoy a Caesar.
For dinner I ordered Strascinati with Wild Mushroom Soffritto, Spicy Lamb Sausage, and Roasted Red Peppers. The soffrito added a lovely depth and the mushrooms balanced out the spiciness of the lamb sausage and roasted red peppers. This dish was outstanding. I even wrapped up my leftovers and reheated with a handful of spinach. I was uncertain about microwaving the homemade pasta, but it withstood the heat, and was a great leftover later in the week.
I also enjoyed loved Will's special, a homemade Ricotta Cavatelli with Salami and Greens. I love the variations of pasta; each dish has a flair and uniqueness that one doesn't see very often at your neighborhood Italian wine bar.
For dessert we shared a cinnamon bread pudding with cinnamon stracciatella gelato and cinnamon anglaise that was sweet and airy. So good.
I am still dreaming about our meal. Aroma is a wonderful cozy date restaurant. It's perfect for a glass of wine with cheese or a three course Italian feast.
Aroma Kitchen & Wine Bar
46 East 4th Street, New York, NY 10003
(212)-375-0100