New York: Where to Eat: Quick Break: Epistrophy

Epistrophy

Having spent many years living in Europe, I’m always puzzled by the lack of real cafes in New York City—the kind where you can linger over a cup of strong espresso, read the paper, chat with the owners and see the same faces (of course I blame Starbucks). One notable and happy exception is Epistrophy, a bohemian café and wine bar in Nolita that opened in 2005 but has managed to remain somewhat of a secret. Owners Luca Fadda and Giorgia Zedda, an adorable Italian couple from Sardinia, have created a living room-like space that’s hip and laid-back at the same time, with couches and mismatched tables and chairs. Besides coffee and a short list of wines, Epistrophy also serves some light food (mainly salads, paninis and meat-and-cheese platters), making it a wonderful spot for a quick break on a shopping spree in the area. Or you can take your cue from the ex-pat Europeans who bring their computers (there’s free WiFi) and settle in for the afternoon, slowly moving from ordering cappuccinos to the first glass of wine in the early evening. Cash only.