Love Match: Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar

January 26, 2010 5:46 pm

Love Match: Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar

Everyone is looking for their "new favorite place"... that restaurant where you can always go for drinks, a light bite, or a casual date. Don't have one yet? Here it is: Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar. If the words "wine" and "chocolate" aren't enough to lure you in, let me elaborate.

Ayza is tucked away on 31st Street in Midtown somewhere between Macy's and Korea Town. Not exactly an area bustling with entertainment, but that's one of the reasons that makes Ayza so special. Although the décor inside is simple, romantic details are everywhere: cucumber-infused water, fresh flowers, glimmering tea lights and beautifully shaped wine glasses. Tip, the restaurant is small, so seating inside is limited. Play it safe and make a reservation on OpenTable.

Speaking of the wine, Ayza's Sommelier has crafted an international (and very reasonably priced) list of whites, reds, rosés and Champagnes that is sure to please any palette. Order by the glass, bottle or even flight if you just can't decide. Tip, a flight will let sample 4-5 different wines, so if you like a little variety with your varietals, this is fun way to discover new likes.

The menu is mostly Mediterranean with a bit of Asian influence, and it includes everything from soups to steaks. But the small plate appetizers are really the ones to order—items like the Angry Chicken Lollipops, White Truffle Pizza, Goat Cheese Brûlée Salad or Crispy Baby Shrimp Dumplings are perfect accompaniments to the wines and are also nice for sharing. And since there's nothing quite like wine and cheese, Ayza offers impressive cheese platters served with guava paste and caper berries.

Enough about the food though. Let's be honest, the real reason to go to Ayza is the chocolate. You can choose from a wide array of Jacques Torres bonbons, handmade truffles by Martine's or even order a martini topped with shaved Belgian chocolate. Technique, when pairing wine with chocolate, try to choose a wine that is as sweet (or sweeter) than the chocolate you are eating so that it doesn't taste bitter.

Tip, chocolate and wine have heart-healthy antioxidants and are amazing aphrodisiacs. For those still searching for seductive Valentine's Day plans, indulge your sweetheart and your senses here.

Ayza Wine and Chocolate Bar
11 W. 31st Street
New York, NY 10001
212.714.4992
www.ayzanyc.com