Disclaimer: I was invited as a guest to this establishment for a complimentary meal. All opinions expressed in this post are my own.
Corkbuzz Wine Bar recently invited me to a power lunch with a wonderful group of women from the world of food media.
Master Sommelier Laura Maniec of Corkbuzz Wine Studio in Union Square has curated an ideal meeting place for spectacular wines and outstanding eats at Corkbuzz Wine Bar Chelsea Market.
Teaming up with two-time Michelin star Chef Missy Robbins, this intimate wine bar is inspired by a European style outdoor market vibe where people gather together for a casual glass of wine and some light bites.
At Corkbuzz, women really pave the way both behind the scenes and at the front end. Aside from Laura and Missy leading the charge – the team that helped put this together from design (Stephanie Goto) to construction, were women. A HUGE shoutout to our wonderful hostess Rachael Wilson, the Communications Director, who guided us through our afternoon of indulgence.
Corkbuzz Wine Bar aims to provide that ultimate space where all kinds of people with an interest in wine (from novice to expert) can come together to share this passion whilst sampling a glass or a bottle or two! The wine menu offers about 150 bottles of some of Maniec’s favorites as well as signature picks from top sommeliers.
The menu at Corkbuzz comprises of Italian-accented small plates where each dish has been inspired by an experience from Missy’s extensive travels. These narratives compelled her to recreate the flavors and emotions behind each story on a platter.
The food was nothing short of stellar. I did have my favorites and they were unusual and “to die for”. Don’t miss the “Potato Chips with Fennel and Chili, the “Gougeres”, the “Anchovies with Salsa Verde”, the “Tomato Braised Calamari”, the “Panzarotti” and the “Sopressata”. Each dish was artfully paired with a wonderful pours of wines and champagne.
Make sure to avoid the crowds of Chelsea Market and access Corkbuzz from its backdoor on 15th Street. There’s no sign yet but just look for neon pink lights and cryptic messages – they will light up the way for you.
Lunch at Corkbuzz begins at 11:30 am and goes straight through to 11 pm. The bar is open from 11:30am -12pm Sunday -Tuesday & 11:30am-2am on Wednesday-Saturday.
The best deal of all though is their “Champagne Campaign” where bottles of champagne are available at half off from 10pm to close every day!!
Chelsea Market now has a perfect spot for grownups to play in – if I were you – I’d be heading over right about now!
Here is some of what we ate and drank:
Potato Chips fennel, chili, sea salt (Aubry Premier Cru Brut)
Gougeres fontina, speck (Aubry Premier Cru Brut)
Roasted Eggplant, pine nuts, golden raisins (Chateau du Coing ’00 Muscadet)
Cucumbers, coriander, cumin, chile, yogurt (Chateau du Coing ’00 Muscadet)
Whole Artichoke, Italian dressing (Chateau du Coing ’00 Muscadet)
Anchovies Salsa Verde, bread, butter (Kiralyudvar ’11 Furmint)
Tomato Braised Calamari, fennel pollen (Domain Labet Fleurs ’09 Chardonnay)
Cured Swordfish, giardiniera, taggiasca olives (Kiralyudvar ’11 Furmint)
Tuna Conserva, zucchini, dill (Domain Labet Fleurs ’09 Chardonnay)
Sopressata, gnocco fritto (La Provostura ’10 Nebbiolo)
Panzarotti, ricotta and mozzeralla filled (La Provostura ’10 Nebbiolo)
Cotechino Sausage Sandwich (Señorio de P. Pecina Reserva ’05 Tempranillo)
Burrata Sandwich (Señorio de P. Pecina Reserva ’05 Tempranillo)
Popped Corn (Madeira)
Cannoli Cream Filled Éclair (Madeira)