Fair question. Brunch can be intimidating. But brunch is so much more than an excuse to gossip with the gang. It is an excuse to eat great food! And you shouldn't have to miss out on this Sunday morning tradition. Luckily, New York City's Locanda Verde makes brunch for one a breeze!
Located in Tribeca, Locanda Verde sits on a cobblestone corner of one the city's hippest neighborhoods. Like many Manhattan hotspots, it's just as much about the food as it is the experience. The entrance alone is inviting, pristinely accented with seasonal flowers. I was immediately greeted by a hostess who, when I said, "brunch for one," warmly smiled and showed me to the spacious bar. Sitting tall on the dark leather stool, I looked and saw fellow singles enjoying brunch: I was not alone.
Although outdoor seating is available, the real action happens inside. Reminiscent of a parisian bistro, the tables are small and the lighting is industrial. The curved bar, large enough to seat 15 people, glows a golden hue. The decor is trendy without being intimidating, elegant without being pretentious.
The brunch menu, larger than other brunch spots but not overwhelming, is divided into Antipasti (appetizers), Colazioni (breakfast/lunch) and Secondi (heartier lunch). Appetizers were priced between $10-$19, with entrees ranging from $22-$28. Offering an American twist on Italian cuisine, drinks include a Bloody Mary with hot peppers and mortadella.
I decided to try the Insalata D'Andrea (my mom's maiden name, how could I not?) and the Sheep's Milk Ricotta for appetizers. And for my entree, the Zucchini Frittata (egg pie). The salad, fresh arugula tossed with fennel and almonds, was a perfectly light Sunday treat. The sweetness of the apples was wonderfully paired with the saltiness of the asiago. The Zucchini Frittata was good but, unfortunately, not great. Growing up eating the brunch dish, I expected more. The eggs were fresh and the goat cheese sweet and savory; however, it lacked a punch. The real star of the meal was the Sheep's Milk Ricotta. Served with three pieces of burnt orange toast, the ricotta was rich and creamy. Infused with truffle honey and herbs, the dish has already secured my return.
Service at the bar was friendly and, thankfully, no judgments were thrown my way as a solo diner. In a city filled with great restaurants, Locanda Verde should definitely be a stop on your solo NYC summer tour. And, if you don't enjoy your brunch, you can always sit at the bar and star gaze. Tribeca-native Robert DeNiro is a co-owner.
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