Allen & Delancey

1.29.10 We decided to check out an LES fave, Allen & Delancey. I love this neighborhood and was anxious to see what "what" a famous chef in Manhattan can cater to the LES crowd. We had a fairly late reservation, so we didn't expect to wait. Unfortunately, we ended up waiting an hour past our actual reservation time. While it was difficult to be patient with a riot in my stomach, we still found reasons to have a good time. The manager showered us with drinks and apologies, making the wait more than bearable. Famous for their cocktails, we watched as people downed not one but more than two cocktails per person. I was in a wine mood and my bf was in a scotch mood, so we didn't order their famous cocktails, but I enjoyed watching the bartender mix their special cocktails. Once we sat down, the real fun began. We shared... Maine Sweet Shrimp Crudo- clams, mussels, caviar, green apple, lime Octopus Confit- smoke black bean puree, tomatillo, cilantro, lime Grilled Bologna & Cheese- bacon roll, fontina He had... Long Island Duck- turnips, beets I had.. Lamb Neck and Loin- eggplant tomato chutney, mint If you're ever in the neighborhood and want a unique cocktail, go to Allen & Delancey. Enjoy their dark, romantic atmosphere with a sip of their famous cocktails. And, if you can handle the wait, it's worth trying their duck. It's another experience from the Chinatown duck just a street away.