From to distinctive to boring in three years or less

CitrineNYC from 11215 | Posted on 11/12/09

I used to love Barbounia. Sadly, they've changed their menu--and not for the good. They had over twenty ouzos at the bar. Their menu of mezzes, classic Greek dishes and grilled seafood was delicious and flavorful. Every time I went over the last couple of years, fewer Greek items were on the menu. They offer one ouzo now. When I went three months ago, the menu had become more "North African bistro" than anything else--steaks, tagines, etc., plus the prices have steadily gone up. I suppose it's fine if you want a steak frites that's not as tasty as other places that do it well, but I long for their old menu offering.

Did you find this review helpful?

1 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

Hype

BornNBread from 10016 | Posted on 8/5/09

If you're looking to clink wine glasses and snack on hummus before a night at Tenjune, this restaurant is the perfect choice. The scene looked relatively pre-club. Great ambiance, excellent decor, nice lighting. The food was sub-par for the price, though average for that neighborhood. My salad was limp and flavorless. The "mezze" appetizers were good, but I saw a lot of half-eaten entrees. And $3.50 for extra bread is a crock. Our server had to be reminded to bring drink and side orders, and the staff was a little too eager to clear our unfinished platters. Underwhelming experience.

Did you find this review helpful?

2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

Decent

chisa | Posted on 12/29/05

I walked in with 2 friends and they were able to seat us immediately without a reservation, which is pretty rare for restaurants in that neighborhood. The different spreads were delicious, although I'm not sure how you would have eaten them if you didn't order a side of the flatbread. I had the special short ribs as my main course, which were a little dry, but overall tasty. Decor is great, you would never know that Patria used to be there. Overall it was a decent experience. I'm not sure if Barbounia is going to last given some of the other amazing restaurants in the area, but it's worth a try.

Did you find this review helpful?

229 out of 441 people found this review helpful.

Hagi from 10016 | Posted on 12/13/05

Despite the hype since the opening food was barely average. Taramosalata had faint traces roe and eggplant salad could have been canned for all I know. Warm olives?? Try again please! Service was substandard. Good selection of Ouzos but bartender needs a lesson (or two) on how to serve it. I guess the greek chef that left a week before opening saw it coming!

Did you find this review helpful?

204 out of 427 people found this review helpful.