Aesop's Tables

We went for lunch around 2 p.m. on a Saturday as a plan B to our original plan since it was in the area. The place was unique--bright orange walls with a kind of industrial feel with some ceiling pipes, with chalk boards everywhere listing wines and beers. The service was very slow and it took us around 30 minutes to get our food, when there's no way for salads and sandwiches and only three tables total eating there that it should have taken that long. I ordered the Acaraje, which is a vegetarian black-eyed pea fried North African pattie. It came on a yummy crisp artisan bread and had cilantro mayo and pico de gallo. Most of the sandwiches cost around $7.50 and came with the side of the day or a plain green salad. However, to substitute a Greek salad or tabouli, there was a $2.50 upcharge, and to substitute the tiny cup of lobster bisque, it was a $3.50 upcharge. I personally feel there should have been no upcharge and they should have had more options for sides included in the price. The Greek salad was average, although it was fresh enough. A small piece of tomato and cucumber and only one black olive. The feta on it was good, but the Greek dressing was practically non-existant. I don't like my salads drenched, but I felt it should have come with more for that $2.50 upcharge, and it needed the kick from the dressing. The acaraje, which I had never had before, was amazingly delicious. They had some good vegetarian options (I'm not vegetarian, but I like vegetarian food). I would say it's probably worth checking out, although maybe at a different time when the service would be faster?

We had planned on going somewhere else, I must admit, but they were full and we didn't want to leave the area. Yay for Yelp and a list of local hot spots. As soon as we saw Aesop's, we were walking. Granted we walked a block in the wrong direction on a windy night, but we were anxious for some Mediterranean food. The restaurant is very basic and set up like a cafe. The staff was friendly as we burst through the door with the wind trailing us. It was warm and we were promptly sat. I like that the drinks are on chalkboards hanging on the wall since the tables are set for two and leaves little room for salt/pepper. However, the wine menu was behind me and I had to twist to see it; I wish there was another on the other side of the room I could have read. I know I'm a wine snob, so I was impressed that even though she didn't know much about the wines, she found out a little information quickly so I could make a decision. It would be nice to know more about the wines without having to ask, but what can you do with a small space? The prices were a little steep for a such a small establishment, but after seeing the liquor prices, I guess you have to make due somewhere. We ordered a starter of the Aesop's Dipping Plate which was gone in no time. The tzatziki was missing something, maybe more cucumber, but it was all good. Oh! The wine arrived and it was wonderful because I recognized the name as she was trying to pronounce it. There's nothing more terrible than ordering a glass of something and having it taste terrible. It was a Malbec and I wanted to ensure it was South American. For the terrific price of $4.50, I wasn't very optimistic, but it was a Trapiche which is one of my favorites. Hit me!
My husband ordered the chicken Gyro which we debated for 5 minutes on how he was best to eat it. Cut or not to cut? That is the question! Huge! I ordered the Arroz en Rania and the sauce was to die for. The menu says slightly spicy, but it was like butter. It tasted like curry was blended, but I dipped everything in it and finished my plate. The shrimp were huge and it was a nice blend with the mussels. We wanted dessert, but we had party plans that night and our meter was running out. I see other reviews about an outdoor seating arrangement, so we will be back when the weather permits. Otherwise, it's a nice warm seat out of the wind and we'll be back for more!

Great soup, and friendly staff!  I will go back again and again!