AOC Bedford

One of our favorite restaurants in NY is AOC Bedford in the Village. It's just a couple of blocks from Scott and Jory and is one of their favorites too. The room is small, comfortable with a very friendly and informative staff. The menu is French/Southern European and leans toward specialties like Paella and Suckling Pig.

It seems lately we've become 'early birds' at dinner. The reasons are varied, but usually there's something else on the agenda later in the evening and rather then a quick something at home, going out is always the first choice for Paul. The upside of this is that we've been able to get a table at some of the more challenging places with long waiting lists. At AOC, they offer a Prix Fixe menu before 7:00. they also have a BYOB policy on Sunday and Monday which is really great, although it does not apply to the prix fixe.

Our meal was wonderful as usual, I started with the "Octopus Carpaccio (pictured)" with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar. Chris had the "Braised, Shredded, Duck" with a butternut squash puree also quite good. Even though we usually order different things each time we go to a restaurant, I have had the Octopus several times.

For the main course, I then had the "Duck Breast with a Bosc Pear and Potato Puree". The Duck was perfectly prepared. Crisp on the outside and pink on the inside - not easy but wonderful when done right. Chris had the "Scallops with an emulsion" which were tender and sweet.

We were weak and had dessert. I had the "Crepes Suzette" and Chris had "Creme Brulee". YUM!

Our wine choice was a nice carafe of Cote du Rhone.

All in all, one of our favorite places in NY.

AOC Bedford

14 Bedford St.(bet. Downing & Houston Sts.)
212-414-4764