Absinthe-Minded & Absolutely Delicious: My Boucherie Union Square Escape!

Okay, friends, you know I love a good adventure, and this weekend's trip to NYC did NOT disappoint! I came to visit my bestie, Sarah, who recently moved to Manhattan, and she's been raving about how amazing Central Park is. So naturally, that was the first stop on my list. A long walk through its beautiful trails and I was ready for a good meal. And guess what? My tummy led me straight to Boucherie Union Square.

I'd heard whispers about this place from a few followers, and let me tell you, the rumors are TRUE. Boucherie Union Square, with its tagline of "Bistro for dry-aged steaks and other French fare, with a bar that's strong on absinthe," is a total vibe. Think classic bistro meets upscale steakhouse, with a cocktail menu that’ll have you saying "ooh la la!"

First things first: the appetizers. I had to try a few, because, priorities! The *Arancino* (saffron rice ball, stuffed with nduja and mozzarella) for $14 was a burst of flavor – perfectly crispy on the outside, gooey and spicy on the inside. And the *Polpette* (Pat La Frieda Wagyu beef meatballs, tomato, ricotta) for $19? Forget about it! They were tender, juicy, and swimming in the most amazing tomato sauce. I also couldn't resist the *Our Housemade Bread* (5) for $7, so delicious!

For my main course, I was torn! But I finally landed on the *Spaghetti Chitarra* (crabmeat, pistachio, lemon, cream, marjoram). At $34, it's a splurge, but SO worth it. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the combination of crab, pistachio, and lemon was just *chef's kiss*. I was seriously considering licking the plate clean. If seafood isn't your thing, I've heard amazing things about the *Rigatoni al Forno* (beef & pork ragu, peas, caciocavallo) which is also $34.

What really makes Boucherie special, though, is the atmosphere. It’s got this cool, buzzy energy that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a Parisian dream. I could have stayed there all night! After dinner, I walked to Washington Square Park just to sit by the fountain and enjoy the city lights. The next day, I grabbed a quick coffee and strolled through Bryant Park, which had a lovely outdoor market at the time. It was the perfect way to end my little Big Apple adventure.

Before I left, I grabbed one last bite: the *Crocche* (potato croquettes, smoked provola, pistachio pesto) for $15. Savory and perfectly textured. These were definitely a highlight.

If you’re looking for a delicious meal, a fantastic atmosphere, and a little slice of Paris in New York City, you HAVE to check out Boucherie Union Square. Trust me, you won’t regret it. And Sarah and I are already planning our next visit!