I couldn’t resist sharing my latest dining escapade at Amali with my friend. 'I can’t stop thinking about that dip,' I texted eagerly, only to receive an instant confirmation of his agreement. The object of our culinary obsession? The fiery allure of Amali’s spicy feta dip, nestled discreetly within the charming streets of Manhattan’s East 60th. Tucked away behind an unassuming façade, Amali exudes the aura of a true hidden gem, luring in unsuspecting food enthusiasts like ourselves.
Our gastronomic journey commenced with a delightful surprise – complimentary koulouri, a delightful circular bread enveloped in a generous coat of sesame seeds, accompanied by a tantalizing whipped feta butter infused with vibrant herbs. With appetites ignited, my dining companion and I faced a delightful dilemma: opt for individual indulgences or embark on a shared culinary voyage. Entranced by the promise of tantalizing dips, enticing pasta creations, and an array of delectable mains, we unanimously embraced the communal spirit of Amali.
Initially eyeing the spring pea labneh, I found myself swayed by our server’s enthusiastic recommendation of the spicy feta dip. Served generously atop grilled bread and adorned with verdant jalapeños, it proved to be an irresistible symphony of flavors. With each decadent bite, the harmonious interplay of salty cheese, earthy pistachios, and subtle hints of honey enveloped our palates, leaving us utterly enchanted.
Yet, our culinary odyssey at Amali was far from over. As we savored succulent oysters and indulged in a refreshing sunchoke salad, each dish served as a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to seasonal excellence. The unexpected presence of sunchokes, delicately balanced with vibrant pomegranate accents, reaffirmed my trust in Amali’s culinary prowess. And what better way to cap off our evening than with the decadent indulgence of aphrodisiac oysters, expertly paired with a tantalizing martini in the intimate ambiance of this dimly lit enclave.
Indeed, the allure of Amali’s culinary treasures beckons for a return visit, promising yet another unforgettable dining experience.
Indulging in our mains, we opted to share the exquisite fresh cappelletti and succulent lamb accompanied by delicate baby turnips. The cappelletti, generously filled with tender shredded short ribs, was a symphony of flavors meticulously presented on the plate. As for the lamb, its perfectly rosy hue concealed a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, reminiscent of buttery perfection. Accompanied by roasted baby turnips, boasting a texture akin to room temperature butter—soft yet pleasantly resilient—the dish offered a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
No proper Upper East Side date night would be complete without a decadent dessert, and we indulged in the Basque cheesecake. Adorned with its signature burnt top and boasting a luxuriously creamy, ethereal texture, it glided across the palate with such velvety smoothness that my companion likened it to the classic creme brûlée.
Echoing the refined elegance of its cuisine, Amali’s ambiance exudes an unassuming sophistication that effortlessly blends modernity with the timeless charm of old-school New York. Amidst the bustling streets of the Upper East Side, where culinary treasures can sometimes be elusive, Amali stands as a beacon of discovery—a friendly reminder that hidden dining gems abound in every corner of the city.
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In conclusion, our dining experience at Amali was nothing short of exceptional. From the tantalizing starters to the sumptuous mains and divine desserts, each dish showcased the culinary expertise and dedication to quality that defines this hidden gem. Coupled with the restaurant's inviting ambiance, characterized by an unpretentious elegance reminiscent of old-school New York, Amali offers a truly memorable dining experience on the Upper East Side. As we savor the lingering flavors and reminisce about our evening, Amali serves as a compelling testament to the abundance of hidden culinary treasures awaiting discovery throughout the vibrant tapestry of New York City.
