I judge a place by its atmosphere, food, service and charm. Despite being last in that list service, charm is tops and can trump,atmosphere and food. I find places that are not well lit. candle light sensualize everything. I am sexist, I like male waiter period. It is a personal preference. The host/ hostess can be the gateway to a great experience
This place is light is in that darkness I love so much. Candle and low lights give this place an alluring charm . This restaurant has a very small open kitchen and three very well coordinated cooks that work the line. There is a bar that faces the kitchen and you can watch the food being prepared. There is a second bar in the back facing the wine storage area, which is even darker and nice for a intimate tryst. In the center there are a selection of small tables that despite the small size of the place are not cramped together.
Caveat: Please dont be the guy who ask the cooks about the food if you sit at the bar in front of the kitchen. It is annoys them and it is like taping on the glass of pet store. You will kill any vibe you are trying to create if the cook glares at you.
The food is pricey as is the wine by the glass. average price per person $50.00 but the food is beautiful, simple and well prepared. The porkchop I shared with my guest was lovely. It was done medium which is the perfect porkchop in my mind. I also had Brussel Sprouts which if they were prepared like this when I was little , I would have been a bigger fan. Casa Mono's Creme Brulle ( Burnt Vanilla Custard ) was disappointing, it was too runny. But they did have a chocolate cake that I should of ordered.
The crowd here has never been cute, It is a Union Square resturant with a Upper West Side looking crowd. My fellow New Yorkers will understand what this means. The hostess grew annoyed when we didnt understand that there were two bars, which would have been fun had she been more attractive. I wasnt bowled over by our waiter. But I digress. overall for the Union Square area this place has great food and a sensual atmosphere. I suggest the bar in the back and Mon/ Tues/ Wednesday stay away on the busy nights.
Woman love watching men cook, if you cant this could be a nice choice. The caveat is this place is strictly foreplay for another activity for the evening. The location keeps you away for the Union Square area's single's scene ( translation, competition) and is a short walk from The Gramercy Park Hotel and The W Union Square.
www.casamononyc.com
52 Irving Place (212)253-2773
Link: www.casamononyc.com
