Transitioning with The Season

Over the years, Popina has become a warm-weather destination for our sprawling backyard; but my take: Popina is the perfect spot in those colder-weather months when you want to linger over a glass of nebbiolo and bowl of rigatoni studded with guanciale and topped with pecorino. The size of the kitchen doesn't change; so as the crowds fade the kitchen really dials it in. A binchotan grill, more elaborate pick-ups, and just more time to create. 

What to eat

• All the pasta; but definitely the pappardelle with ham hocks. Beautifully braised pork shanks shredded and paired with tender collard greens and grana padano cheese. Although the restaurant lost its Southern influence--it's a staple dish that is hard to take off the menu. 

• The Hot Chicken Milanese which you might have seen from the cover of Food & Wine Magazine is the long-time favorite & worth trekking to Columbia Street for. 

• Don't skip dessert! We always has fantastic desserts from Basque Cheesecake to Chocolate Budino. We also teamed up with Hallie Meyer at Caffe Panna for a pint of gelato which has limited availability.

What to drink

Popina has something for everyone. You don't see Kelley Fox Chardonnay ($16) by the glass very often; but I drank a glass of that with my anchovy spaghetti and it was divine. I usually don't drink by the glass because restaurants don't always put the same effort into it; but Popina's selection is always epic. I transitioned to a glass of Cerasuolo di Abruzzo from Tiberio ($17) which was recommended as the perfect bridge between courses. I ended with a half glass of Newfound Gravels ($17) --yes, we offer half glasses! This grenache-based red sang with my hanger steak & maitakes. Popina does other beverages well--with its sneaky beer list or excellent spirits collection. For me, a Japanese whiskey or even this rare Japanese fernet?

Best for Occasions like...

The main dining room is candlelit and perfect for date night or one on one catch-ups. The side-dining space has been converted to be fully enclosed; so it's great for large groups; especially for No Corkage Wednesdays.  Inside is tiny; so reservations are recommended; but the side-dining room is perfect for last minute plans with large groups. 

Lastly, an insider tip:

We opened a wine shop down the street; so if you drink something you like -- chances are you can find it down the block or at least something similar.