Camera in the Kitchen: Tarallucci e Vino

You might know Pepi di Giacomo and Luca di Pietro from the East Village bakery-become-coffee haven, Tarallucci e Vino where they sell their namesake's signature semolina cookies and lots of vino right along with Roman coffee beans and a smattering of panini. Following suit, the duo have just opened a new wine bar, patisserie, and coffee spot of the same name at 15 East 18th St. (between Broadway & 5th), showcasing more pastries, more wine, more coffee, and adding a repetoire of cheeses, salads, panini, quiches, and mouth-watering entrees including quail and polenta and pork loin that will fill even the most discerning palette. At the bar space in the front, one can choose from over a dozen wines poured by the glass, and snack on complimentary plates of olives or bite-sized panzerotti. The main dining space is elevated--beautifully--and there, options range from sauteed artichokes with black olive puree to potato gnocchi with speck and radicchio. Gothamist also stole a taste of the ricotta and spinach fritata panini, which comes spread with an artichoke mayo on ciabatta bread with greens lightly doused in homemade balsamic vinaigarette, one of their sandwiches not to be missed.

To accomodate the wayfarer without time to sit and mosey around inside, there is Tarallucci To Go, a concession-stand sized storefront offering more of the same espresso, pastries in the morning, and panini and gelato for lunch. Take a peak, and, if, like Gothamist you work in the neighborhood, you might find yourself a frequent (or addicted) visitor.

Tarallucci e Vino is located at 15 East 18th St. between Broadway & 5th Avenue. (212) 228-5400.