Heidi's House by the Side of the Road

Heidi's House by the Side of the Road Restaurant Review:

Cozy and neighborhoody with a stand-out bar, Heidi’s House is an Upper East Side find. The menu from chef Cipriano Pita, formerly of Etats-Unis, and a well-conceived beer and wine list highlight organic products whenever possible. The small 20-seat restaurant with an original tin ceiling --- formerly a laundromat --- serves up regional dishes, including starters like the spicy crab cakes with the right amount of black pepper-invoked heat, and piquant shrimp tacos, set in a swirl of guacamole. Two distinctive entrées are the macaroni and cheese served piping hot in an individual black skillet, and the paella, happily devoid of saffron leaving the fresh seafood, chorizo and bacon flavors center stage. Pair an after-dinner drink with the somewhat sticky but not overly sweet date pudding, complemented by a generous dollop of crème fraîche. If possible call to reserve a table, or plan to wait and sit at the bar. Nearly every wine by the bottle is offered by the glass and set at reasonable prices.