V-Bar Brightens the Corner
I picked today’s subject under the bold assumption that I am not the only person who thinks pasta is one of the most awesome breakfasts foods, ever, ever. Why should we wait until night time to enjoy the the post-pasta eating euphoria when we can feel that bloat-er, I mean-glow all day long? V-Bar agrees, and offers up carb goodness like Spaghetti Carbonara or Fusilli in a garlicky, basiley al Verde sauce for just $9 at their weekend brunch, and then makes it all the more irresistible with $3 Bloody Mary’s or $7 bottomless Mimosas with an entree purchase to boot.
I hate to admit that I’ve been walking past V-Bar for months, presuming its attractive setting and customers inside made it a little too stuffy (that’s another word cheap people use instead of expensive), and sauntered on down to the $1 pizza spot on St. Marks instead. But the $9 pasta dishes remain for dinner, as do $5 sides like Zucchini Fries and Beets with Goat Cheese & Walnuts. Beers stick around the $6 range while wines are a bit steeper, around $10 a glass (but some bottles for only $28!), so happy hour from 4-7 when drinks are 2-for-1 is definitely the best bet if your pennies be a wee too pinched.
The space is airy and bright thanks to the practically floor to ceiling front windows, perfect for watching the St. Marks crowds going by. At night the lighting is low and the bar usually keeps from getting too crowded despite its central location. Just don’t forget to check out the very cool Karma Board in the back to see if someone bought you a drink.
V-Bar
132 1st Avenue (btn 7th Street & St. Marks Place)
[East Village]
Photo Credit: Nycgo.com