Falai Panetteria
- Nearest Transit:
Delancey-Essex Sts (F, J, M, Z)
- Price Range: $$
- Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
- Attire: Casual
- Good for Groups: No
- Good for Kids: No
- Take-out: Yes
- Waiter Service: Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: No
- Good for: Breakfast, Lunch
19 Reviews for Falai Panetteria
A friend who lives in the LES spontaneously took me here (mainly bc the guy at French Diner was such an ass) so I didn't have a chance to consult the yelp gods before ordering. I'm so codependent, it ain't even funny. :(
So sadly, I didn't even order dessert. Had a mish mash of items, including the cheese plate. Alas their cheese plate can't hold a candle to inoteca's, so the whole time I had massive cheese plate envy. Dinner is probably not this place's strong suit so I feel bad giving them 3 stars. Like how I will watch Paul Walker in every B movie out there (8 Below was great, come on!!) but I'd be an idiot to go see him do Shakespeare.
this place isn't advertised as a brunch place and i hope they stay that way cuz its one of the few places left where people in les can escape to to have just some morning pastries! so our original plan at 10am was actually to go to clinton street bakery.. where of course the wait was expected to be 90 minutes... so we hopped on over to this joint!
i wish my stomach could try more stuff cuz i think their pastries and bread looked really good! i had the focaccia bread dipped in the oven baked egg dishes.
so these oven baked egg dishes were good at the beginning... yolk still runny when broken up... and dip away! so here is where it turns unappetizing... the salami one and especially the smoked salmon one was just wayyyyy tooo salty after awhile...
also don't expect to get outta here quick... sometimes i think the server dude is on something cuz he's really all over the place and thought he forgot to give us menus, took our order twice, gave us 2 forks on one napkin handed to one person at our table, and then forgot to give us the check...
but i guess i gave him the benefit of the doubt cuz seriously the pastries and the baked goods is what i would come back here for...
People thought this was:
Useful (3)
Cool (2)
My goodness, if you're in the mood for that perfect chocolate croissant and a lovely cup of coffee, this is the place to visit. I give -1 star for the cold and unfriendly cashiers and waitstaff. Every time I come in, and I live a block away, I get tempermental, unsmiling service. What are you? Tiny's? Come on ladies, get with the program.
For great service, I recommend CocoaBar anytime.
I also give it -1 star for uncozy atmosphere, it always reminds me of an unlit bathroom. And add a star for the excellent baked goods and the best coffee on Clinton or Rivington. I brought home a choco croissant on Monday and warmed it. I bit into 4 ounces of gooey, thick melted chocolate. The pastry is everything you had ever HOPED for in a delicious morning treat. And for $2.50!
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Funny (1)
Cool (1)
Bonus points for the Sinatra CD they played throughout the meal and "candle boy" busboy running around like a scurrier of the night. He kept dimming the lights and replacing table tealights. It was enjoyable to watch.
I would've liked to have tried their desserts or baked goods, instead I came for dinner. I enjoyed their linguine al pesto but wasn't blown away. Perhaps I am spoiled by amazing Italian food elsewhere.
Next time, I will bring a handsome lad, sit in the dim lighting (provided by candle boy), and speak of interesting film and/or music while sipping hot cocoa and splitting a croissant. It's more "that" type of place anyway.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Funny (2)
Cool (2)
Baby Arugula Salad with roasted beets, fennel, roasted almonds, goat cheese, balsamic vinaigrette: very good. Ordered with a side of farro.
They haven't had my favorite soup in a while : Vegetarian roasted tomato with farro; hopefully it will make a comeback.
One downside is sometimes the servings are a bit small and you may still be hungry. I always prefer to go here when someone else is paying!!
The bread and pastries are always amazing. Pear & dark chocolate tart is ridiculous, in a good way! I often get a homemade focaccia or black cabbage bread for take-away when I am making sandwiches at home.
The main restaurant FALAI is also excellent.
People thought this was:
Useful (4)
Funny (1)
Cool (5)
Falai Panetteria had been lingering on my New York Food To-Do List for quite a few months. I left happy to cross it off.
For appetizers we ordered the foamed gorgonzola and celery with honey almonds, and the recommended veal meatballs. The foam was interesting, and it almost tasted like gorgonzola. But it didn't stay foamy for very long, and at the end its novelty dissolved into a watery cheese-flavored goop. But the celery was surprisingly flavorful, cut into thick noodle-shapes, and fried into curly ribbons that would have been easier to eat with chop sticks than with forks. The walnuts were toasted and tremendous.
The veal meatballs were delicate and flavorful as promised, but the real surprise was the cabbage, onions and peppers cooked with marinara surrounding those same meatballs. Those vegetables carried more flavor than the veal, and I enjoyed them immensely.
I ordered the whole wheat lasagna, which arrived in a small low bowl where it had evidently been baked as an individual serving. It was a 4x4 square, not more than a quarter of an inch high, but filled with a thick meaty flavor unexpected from its diminutive stature. I could have eaten two or three more, but perhaps it's best that I return again just for that. The first bite had such flavor and character that I presumed those subsequent would pale in comparison. But each bite stood up and demanded my undivided attention and praise. It was great. And it cost about $10.
My dining companion ordered a Panini on focaccia with mozzarella and prosciutto. An easy meal perhaps, but one that satisfied. The proscuitto was layered on in generous silky piles, and I enjoyed it.
The restaurant experience itself was nothing fantastic. The corner store shape,with its panorama windows, would have been more alluring did they not peer out over shabby Clinton Street. And our table rocked uncontrollably. The waitress attempted to stuff napkins below one corner, on her own initiative, only to discover that the tilt was located at the joint between the base and the tabletop. Our bread and appetizers might have been easier to consume were we provided with small plates to supplement the serving dishes, but none of that detracted from the quality of the food.
For dessert we ordered the "Tutti-Fruity" a candied fruit medley meshed between two sweet biscuits with some sort of fruit-flavored whipped cream. But none were available. Instead our waitress suggested we try something similar, which she described as a sort of pie crust surrounding a champagne-flavored custard. I don't know what it was called, but we ordered it and enjoyed it. Champagne isn't my thing. It's tasty, and fun, but the excitement is with the bubbles for me, not the flavor. And as you might imagine, there was no carbonation to our custard. But the dessert was cute, and we finished it with smiles.
Falai Panetteria is the caf bakery outlet of the neighboring and pricier Falai, so they're still getting on top of things. They don't have a liquor license yet. I would have brought a bottle of wine, but my companion is a lightweight, and I didn't want to have to carry someone home, or alternatively drink three quarters of a bottle of wine in one sitting. Also, they don't serve decaf coffee. But decaffeinated Americanos were an adequate substitute.
Before we left I ordered a loaf of their whole wheat raisin and rosemary bread to take with me. Presented in a white paper tote bag, unwrapped and partially exposed to the elements, the bread survived our walk to a bar and eventual subway home. The rosemary raisin bread made excellent breakfast throughout the week, although I'll admit to eating it faster than I planned, for snack and (once) as a dinner substitute. I'm sure the stuff wasn't completely whole wheat, as it wasn't very rough or earthy. The rosemary, in finely grated form was the subtlest of flavors, floating out into the taste only after some serious chewing, like a lingering after breath. The raisins were raisins. But who doesn't like raisins?
It's a good place. It could be a little more carefully planned, but the food's top notch, and very affordable. With appetizers, entre, dessert and a loaf of bread, I paid $50 with tip. You should check it out.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Funny (1)
Cool (1)
Great breads, desserts & coffee
I am convinced that people have absolutely no idea what a tough job it is to review desserts. To be really thorough, one has to make multiple visits and review comparatively. One can't let a single experience alone shape one's judgment. Particularly when there is so much variability in terms of shop quality - from day to day! So, the least a reviewer should do is NOT to compound the problem further by introducing variability at his/her end.
A good reviewer must be consistent in the "consumption patterns", and what do I mean by that
1. Timing - you can't compare a Pain Au Chocolat from Tisserie at 7:30 a.m. vs. one from Claude at 10:30 a.m. (I go within 30-60 minutes of the shop opening)
2. Location - Eating a croissant on location is different from taking it home (moisture and humidity kills the texture)
3. Marginal utility - Cannot compare a Danish consumed on an empty stomach versus one that you have after a French Toast, bagel, and donut!
4. Duration - you can not have a check list approach to reviewing! Can't simply rush in, take a bite and pass judgment. Take the time and savor it.
I try to be mindful of the above, and then assign a rating to an establishment. So, consistent superior quality shapes my judgment more so than the occasional wow experience.
Falai typifies this.
The first time that I visited, I was simply blown away. Even though they also have the NOT-croissant masquerading as Chocolate Croissant (it is actually a Coronetti - layered bread like texture), it was absolutely fantastic! Light, warm valrhona chocolate oozing out of it, crisp and flaky exterior, and all... it was one of the best experiences I have had in NYC. My only complaint was that it was just a mess to eat, as the chocolate had the consistency of a pudding / custard.
However, whenever I've based my rating on just one visit, I've only regretted it. I get messages almost the next day: How could you have rated it: abc stars? I went and was disappointed b/c: xyz. Yes, yes... blame it on me. I made it with my own hands! Frankly: the trust is both uplifting and burdensome, at the same time. For, I feel compelled to be even more thorough in my evaluation, before posting a review.
So, it was back to Falai. And, again. And, yet again! It seems that the first trip wasn't a representative experience. While I agree that the quality and quantity of the chocolate is very satisfying - the subsequent visits have shown that either the chocolate is cold, or the crust is hard, or not flaky enough. So much for consistency.
But, I love one of their items consistently: the Bombolini. For those of you who like donuts (duh!), do try these - jelly or pastry cream filled. They are very addictive when served warm. Light as a feather, sweet, tender, yet slightly chewy. Strange: why do I hear: "Mmmm.... donuts"? D'oh! They are amongst the best in the city (with competition from Balthazar on the chocolate cake donut and Bouchon - but keep in mind that Bouchon carries donuts only on the weekends. Yes, I HAVE sampled from The Doughnut Plant, carrying the phenomenal Tres Leches).
I've also liked the other pastries: Spring Dome (Pistachio cake, strawberry puree and citrus creme), Lemon Sfogliatella, and Cannoli. But, would still be hesitant in asserting that these are the best desserts on the Lower East Side.
Unless, you exclude from the definition of dessert: cupcakes - from a shiny, happy place in the vicinity!
People thought this was:
Useful (10)
Funny (6)
Cool (14)
oh my goodness! my love, falai. i am in california, far far away from falai bakery, and all of a sudden, i started to crave a pastry and became very sad. because this homey little haven, that is so underrated, my most favorite place in the whole world that was 3 blocks away from me in new york, is now on the opposite coast.
seriously, this place is so cute and laid back, and unpretentious. It was the best place to sneak in with an old friend for quiet conversation and delicious treats. sigh* so atmospheric there.
but let me tell you, these are the best pastries ever ever ever and I don't mean that lightly, they are freshly made every morning and are warm and divine, especially if you go early. the pear chocolate tart and the lemon sfogliata are my favorites, but you seriously can't go wrong. they also have fine espresso. (yes, there is some nostalgia in this review)
People thought this was:
Useful (4)
Funny (4)
Cool (4)
Tapas? Dinner? Dessert? I went for the bread. (Good god, I don't know what is so hard about finding good bread in the east village/LES, but it's a problematic pursuit. )
I went for the bread because it's called a Panetteria, and well, because they have it. I tried both their standard offerings--the baguette, and the wheat rosemary raisin.
the baguette: in the french vein with good texture, but a little salty and a little bland. I'd place it between the deli/grocery store offerings, and the big nyc bakery offerings (balthazar, tomcat, sullivan st., etc.)
the rosemary raisin: I know, I know, weird, right? I don't like raisin bread, and really, I usually avoid wheat at bakeries. But it's good. They were looking at two stars before I tried it. It's a big round boule, that's good and crispy on the outside, and moist on the inside. The flavors come together amazingly well. Good with butter, and surprisingly enough, makes great french toast.
Hipster-est freaking decor I have ever seen in my life though, and the counter-person remarked that the rosemary raisin was really good with foie gras. Seriously?
Tasty choco croissant. I heart it.
Go for the pastries. The SO & I tried the brunch (meh) because it was already 2pm, we were starving, and the line for the Clinton St Bakery was LONG. The SO liked the gnocchi, but I found it too mushy and cheese-goopy.
But definitely try the choco croissant. Yum.
Nice low-key tapas place. Great for a light dinner. Haven't been there for breakfast yet, but I heard the coffee and pasteries are delicious.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Cool (1)
Tell me how in the world I was ever able to eat half a chocolate croissant after having brunch at Clinton St. Baking Co.
But I just had to try the work of the former pastry chef at Le Cirque who branched out on his own.
Warm and divine, the only flaw being that the bottom was slightly burnt.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
Having a sweet tooth and sweet spot for all things borne of the union of sugar and butter, one may question if I have a discerning palate. Well, I do and if cholesterol were not to be of issue for me, I would satisfy my palate every single day with one of Falai's ridiculously good SFOGLIATELLA: a traditional - as far as I know- Italian pastry of flaky buttery dough filled with pastry cream and semolina. (And it's not just me, i have never met a sfogliatella who hasn't gotten on well with someone). Other comments: A savory menu item that gets me all hot and bothered is the "Tomato with steamed Farro" which has the most wonderfully pleasant texture (like barley). Rumor has it that the place gets cramped by those Upper Manhattanite's who only travel south to mingle with the more motley of crews on the weekends but I, personally, have never had a problem.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Funny (1)
Everything we tried here was delish. There are more pastries here that I must come back to try. I tried the puff pastry thing with spinach and raisins (yum) and the Butter* croissant. Also had granola with yogurt (fresh fruits with maple crunchy-caramel bits). We went for Sunday brunch and also had the Wild Boar Lasagne w/ whole wheat pasta in it. That was amazing - very rich but just a smallish portion of tantalizing meat sauce between layers of fresh whole wheat pasta (and I usually hate the whole wheat stuff).
*Croissant Search: The butter croissant here is actually along the lines of the italian "cornetti" which is actually a different animal than the croissant. The cornettis tend to be more like rolled bread than a buttery pastry. So I have to say, though disappointing as a croissant, was an excellent Cornetti. Smallish with a nice crispy exterior, the inside had a layered bread-like texture. Not very buttery or flaky.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
contrary to their counterpart, falai, this establishment is well-priced and always a pleasure to visit for their apple strudel or pear chocolate turnovers.
their coffee is great and so are their green teas (might leaf organic).
i like the variety of their fresh baked pastries and savories.
the dinner/lunch menu is astounding as well. the servings are fairly average (so much better than falai!!!) and it's delicious to boot.
the one thing i didn't like, was that the last time i was there, i ordered a coffee from a boy who worked there and watched him bag up the garbage can and then proceed to pour my coffee.
i'm not one to keep my mouth shut, but i did in this case so i would be able to write an unbiased review.
besides that though, there's a lovely girl who works there who's always been sweet and has the best suggestions when i need assistance.
thanks falai panetteria for always making me come out on top when i'm in a bind on what to get a friend for a birthday instead of the usual sugar sweet sunshine cupcake.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
apparently we needed to stick to the pastries.
my mocha was good, not too sweet and just the right size. The figs and riccota I ordered was ok, the pasta special my brunch partner got had a great sauce but the noodles were terribly overcooked.
stick to the pastries and breads and you won't regret it.
the music also sucked, but maybe it was just the morning we were there.
waiters and service here are the worst I have ever had in Manhattan. I swear its run by a bunch of middle school students. Really really terrible.
0 stars.
the food generally is very hit or miss, often times the pasta is extremely overcooked. I'd suggest going somewhere else for dinner, anywhere else if only to avoid the incompetent staff. 1 star
The one thing I do come back for are the desserts, breads and pastries? 5 stars. (just be sure to get them to go and it will ruin it for you)
I enjoyed the chef's restaurant (called "Falai") just a stone's throw away, so I thought I'd give his new bakery a try. A medley of lovely pastries -- puff, fruit and more -- didn't disappoint; the custard-filled donut (aka bomboloni) is addictive. There's also a handful of savory dishes, including a tasty garlic confit soup and meatballs with tomato and cabbage. The space is spare but comfortable and the service is fair to great, depending on whose working.
no chocolate croissant
has ever come close to this!
orgasmic pastry
People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...
Related Lists
-
Pain Au Chocolat and…
You can't handle the truth! My truth is that…
Hot and New
- Little Branch
151 reviews
Neighborhood: Manhattan/West Village
- Rhong Tiam
33 reviews
Neighborhood: Manhattan/Greenwich Village
- Nublu
24 reviews
Neighborhood: Manhattan/East Village
- Bob Bar
45 reviews
Neighborhood: Manhattan/Lower East Side
- White Rabbit Lounge
62 reviews
Neighborhood: Manhattan/Lower East Side
