While the wine program is headed by Rob Bralow, coowner of Streak Wine & Spirits, the kitchen creations are being executed by guitarist Russ Cowen. A rock star and wine always makes for a fun evening. With 34 wines by the glass and 55 by the bottle, Bralow is perpetually editing a loving selection of the favorites he tries for his store just down the block. “We focus on small producers with a quality reputation,” Bralow says. The bar also serves ciders, draft beer and a handful of champagne cocktails. Open since last December, the lounge features a 20-seat bar made of reclaimed wine barrels with an oxidized zinc counter that intentionally collects character markings so that everyone can leave their own mark on the bar. On Mondays, all bottles are half-price. Tuesdays are two for one. Wednesdays, you can create a $20 wine flight with a selection of any three wines. Beyond the requisite selection of charcuterie and artisanal cheeses, the menu is focused on gourmet plates and snacks, all intended for sharing. A stellar cubano ranks up there as one of the most delectable sandwiches ever created, with toasted bread points surrounding houseroasted pork, thinly sliced prosciutto, melted Idiazabal cheese, and house-made pickles. It’s the stuff dreams are made of. Whether you are mother wielding a stroller on a Thursday at 3 p.m., a student returning from an evening lecture, or a suit seeking to loosen your tie after work, BLVD offers a little something for everyone. OCTOBER 2015 | BOROMAG.COM | 19 Something Truffle Mac & Cheese Moroccan Lamb Meatballs Wine 720 Center Blvd., Long Island City, NY 11109 718-440-8520 www.blvdlic.com Cubano Green Papaya & Mango Salad Rob Bralow Chef Russ Cowen
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