Sorella and White Slab Palace - Allen & Delancey

Double-dipping on a Tuesday night. Sinful, but such is life in NYC. Two new LES spots that are both worth a try: Sorella and White Slab Palace - diagonally across the street from eachother on Allen. Sorella: I'm in love -casually elegant Italian wine bar, the perfect decor from half barrels lining the ceiling, the balsa walls stained with red wine (the waitress made sure we knew they used the cheaper stuff) to the sedate, but modern and slightly glam back dining room. A good wine list with several Italian varietals, many of which I haven't heard of before (yes, even I can admit that) and small-plate food that is interesting and very tasty, despite missing a few beats here and there. Despite being a fan of classic rock, a music update is definitely required. I was ok with Zeppelin and Bowie, but Heart was nothing but a downer. Heart, really?? Perhaps that explains why there were only three of us in there for dinner, or maybe it's just because it's a Tuesday night.

Tuesday night is not over yet folks. From Sorella, we meandered to White Slab Palace where they were playing Morrisey, the lighting and vibe was intriguingly darker, and there were more than three people in the joint. Supposedly Scandinavian in theme, but you would only know it from the Acquavit in the refrigerators by the bar - you will know nothing after the bartender offers you a shot of this, though, so beware! WSP is about to break down a wall and add-on another dining room, start serving brunch and lunch - which will be great in the warmer weather as they have garage-door windows. Didn't get to taste the food, but my guess is I didn't miss much. Nevertheless, WSP is definitely on the list for a non-school-night follow-up visit. A good weekend night out: get your nourishment and catch-up with friends at Sorella on the later side on a Saturday and then cross the street to usher in Sunday morning at WSP. Just make sure to invite me!