As far as putting two words I love in the same sentence, “chocolate” and “wine” would top the list. Ayza opened a few years ago midtown (on 31st Street between Broadway and 5th Ave), and I have been meaning to try it. They have embraced social media by featuring a free glass of wine for new Facebook likers and to their loyal Facebook fans, making sure another one of my favorite words, “free” would bring me in.
I was joined by a friend who truly loves and appreciates wine (while I love wine, I know a whole lot more about chocolate). It was winter and too cold to sit outside, though they do have a little patio in front that looked lovely.
We started off with a cheese and charcuterie platter. It was served with fresh berries, guava paste, caper berries, and toasted bread. It was good, but nothing too special.
We also ordered the Goat Cheese Brulee salad. I may have to say that this is one of the BEST salads I have ever eaten. It came with mixed field greens, toasted walnuts, marinated beets, and truffle walnut sherry vinaigrette. The little circles of goat cheese were crisped like creme brulee which added the most impressive crunch to it. I love love love love loved this. I don’t think my dining companion was as impressed, but I would go back for this salad in a heartbeat.
I would say “they had me at hello” but having chocolate covered strawberries on the menu just put this off the charts for me. They were perfectly juicy with really good quality chocolate.
We had a few glass of wine (all of which were decent, but nothing sensational), and then decided to end with some fun drinks. I chose the “Love Affair” with Muscat and Orange Juice. It was quite a lovely combination.
My friend tried the chocolate martini. I hate vodka, so I typically never order these, but this one was absolutely sensational.
I really enjoyed our sampler meal at Ayza, and I look forward to being back and trying more. That goat cheese creme brulee salad and chocolate martini are calling my name!
Total Nom Points: 7.5 out of 10
