Boukies 06-02-2012

Location: 29 E. 2nd St.
Time: 2pm
People: RB, CK and myself

Feelings: Occupying the recently closed and well received German spot Heartbreak, is Boukies, a Greek taverna with the very same Heartbreak owner and nearby Greek spot, Pylos. I love Greek food but am too lazy to trek to Astoria, so this is a welcoming addition to the easily accessible East Village.

Boukies also recently started their brunch in May, and the spacious, modern dining area and outdoor seating are ideal for big groups and kids. Upon ordering milk for CK, they brought it in a gigantic beer mug with straw--my kind of a place. Even toddlers deserve their liquid in style.

They serve food with class and modern flair, and the waitstaff was impeccably attentive with elegant manner. The brunch prix fixe is $15 that includes mimosa, kir royal, sparkling wine, orange juice, coffee or tea. You may wonder, "Why would I order coffee over a mimosa?" but their coffee is clean and beautifully roasted. Considering most dishes are between $12-$16, $15 prix fixe is a great deal.

All their organic egg dishes are served with delightfully seasoned home fries. My salmon omelet (smoked salmon, asparagus with manouri cheese, lemon zest and dill) was perfectly fluffy and superb, but the side of tomato compote was mind-blowing. A hint of citrus and sweet flavor complimented and gave the depth to the plate.

RB's poached eggs with pastourma (spicy air dried beef) and olive oil hallandaise, served on an English muffin were devine. RB is usually not fond of hallandaise, but their offering with deliciously spiced meat was particularly delicious and subtle.

If you are looking for an elegant, relaxing brunch experience with a Greek flair, definitely head down to Boukies. With a bright turquoise and crisp white decors, for a moment, I was transported to the romantic Mediterranean Sea--until CK's scream took me back to East Village.