From Espresso and hot pressed panini in the morning to specialty wines and innovative crafted cocktails at night, Vinum is the place to go to on Staten Island for a tasty treat any time of the day. Small plates, a selection of cheeses, cured meats and charcuterie, a meatball bar with four types of meatballs, a variety of pasta dishes - the menu is vast and very tempting. Dishes with wild boar, rabbit, elk and duck are not common in bistro menus but these are some of the favorites here. Apart from tiramisu and panna cotta, the specialties on the dessert menu are hazelnut truffle and pistachio mousse.
A favorite spot among the locals for Cajun cuisine, Bayou is the only restaurant serving the traditional authentic Cajun-style cuisine in the neighborhood. The interiors are charming and have an old 1900s charm to them, with brick walls and beautiful golden chandeliers hanging in the middle of the room. One must order their catfish tacos, shrimp in bourbon sauce, cornbread, and red beans with rice. Complement your meal with interesting cocktails like the Hurricane cocktail. On weekends they have a special brunch menu with jazz playing in the background. So if you are looking for a great meal head straight to Bayou and you won't be disappointed.
While steaks are a specialty here, they also proudly feature Beef Wellington, this old favorite of beef wrapped in pastry dough is a gastronomic glory. Look for it every Saturday evening, but do not forget the many other delicious dishes available throughout the week. There is an incredible 42-ounce porterhouse steak for two, as well as seafood and pasta dishes. Stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer. The service is also commendable at this Bay Ridge favorite, and the retro décor features brass chandeliers and staid equestrian prints.
The atmosphere at Mompou is reminiscent of a European bistro, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. The food is just as delightful. Featuring Portuguese tapas and entrees, you'll find such things on the menu as Spicy Chorizo and "Vierias Santiago" - seared scallops over a bed of corn and pequillo salsa. There's an extensive wine list and wine bar as well, to complement the delicious fare.