by Steven Doyle
Restaurant Nora celebrated their one year anniversary with little fanfare last month as they are busy preparing for their new rooftop patio, which seems to be all the rage on Greenville Avenue. We certainly have enjoyed what HG Sply Co. has done with their roof, and from that vantage you can peer onto the goings on as that project progresses.
I did have a chance to take a first-hand look at Nora’s roof and it is simply amazing. There already is this amazing stone floor in place that is beautiful, and Matt Pikar is working on setting up a street-side staircase for easy access. Pikar’s private dining room is a showcase for the restaurant and already has hosted many weddings and other parties. This just in time for the holiday parties.
Nora’s private dining room
Other news at Nora is the cocktail and dining menu. The cocktails are creations of Jason Kosmas, and you can see his handiwork all over the place. I had a chance to taste a few of these cocktails last evening and they are a bit out of the ordinary, just like the Afghan cuisine. The drinks are curated by Michael Reith. A few musts on the drink menu include the Kublai Khan, a heady mix of Tequila Cabeza, fresh lemon juice, Velvet Falernum, pumpkin, and Vida Mescal. This drink was definitely inspired by the pumpkin Kadu on the savory menu.
Also try the Silk Road, made with Bulliet Rye, Vya Sweet Vermouth, Almond Syrup, Angostura Bitters, and Orange Bitters. It is a nice twist on the Old Fashioned, which I am particularly partial to. There are plenty more drinks to sail through, so multiple visits may be required.
Qabili Palao, seasoned lamb or chicken served with saffron rice and covered with sautéed sweet carrots and raisins
A new menu is planned for the Fall, so look forward to plenty of hearty dishes such as leg of lamb. If you score an invite to the grand opening of the new patio you will be treated to some of these new items. I understand that Chef Pikar plans to roast several whole lambs.
I particularly enjoy the small plates menu, many of which are just scaled down versions of the larger entrees. What a fantastic way to dine with friends. Here are a few items we enjoyed last night:
Kadu, sautéed pumpkin with garlic yogurt and meat sauce
Lamb Sabzi Chalao, spinach simmered in garlic, onion, leek and spices
Chicken with Yogurt
