Barbarella Awards

Barbarella Restaurant Review:

Proprietress Barbara Beltaire helms this upbeat neighborhood restaurant that's popular with both visitors and locals. The space is smartly divided into cozy rooms with a moody ambience, courtesy of the double-sided fireplace. The open-air patio and garden area make for good al fresco dining and people-watching. For breakfast, try the delicate crêpe with seasonal fruit, the fried organic egg sandwich or chocolate buttermilk pancakes. For lunch, there are salads galore, like an authentic Greek or the namesake "Barbarella" chopped salad with avocado, beets, feta and almonds, tossed in an avocado-lime dressing. The wild mushroom pizza, infused with truffle oil, is our favorite midday bite, though we can't get enough of the French onion soup, with its intense broth and melted Gruyère. Ditto the sautéed broccoli rabe with fresh buffalo mozzarella. For an entrée, try the lemon-roasted chicken, seared salmon in basil beurre blanc or steak frites. Tempting pasta dishes include fettuccine Bolognese or spaghetti with steamed littleneck clams. Dessert highlights French classics such as profiteroles and crêpes. Ask for Beltaire's cheese and fruit specials as well. The restaurant is dog-friendly, as four-leggers can choose from their own menu featuring bacon bits, chicken, hot dogs and more. Look out for weekday happy hour specials.