Shariq’s Département

The cool summer breeze flitted through the open windowed-doors as we ate a refreshing Argentinian bistro meal at Azul Bistro, a LES hangout with a definite casual, downtown vibe that makes you crest.

I was out for dinner with P., L., and H., and we were all blown away with the great dining experience we had.  The openness of the restaurant and the coolness of the night had something to do with it.  So did the food.  We had appetizers for the table that included sweetbreads, baby octopus and eggplant stuffed with goat cheese.  All were delectable; P. had a hard time sharing the eggplant!

For main courses, L. had the lamb chops (picture 1), and enjoyed them.  H. and I had the hanger steak (picture 2), a wonderfully moist piece of meat surrounded by crisp, salty fries and salad, all to be dipped in a garlicky chimichurri sauce.  The steak did not feel heavy at all.  P., unfortunately did not like his trout entree too much (picture 3) - he felt it was too bland, in spite of the salt crust; but, then P. generally does not like trout, so I am not sure why he ordered it!

But, the desserts made him happy.  The molten chocolate cake was oozing chocolaty goodness, and we all dove in (picture 4).  The caramel dessert was also good (picture 5).

We’ve been going here for a few years now, and are glad to report that Azul Bistro has maintained very high standards - it’s on Stanton and Suffolk in the Lower East Side.