Kaia
Kaia

Kaia Wine Bar

  • Bars | Wine bars
  • price 2 of 4
  • Upper East Side
Julien Levy
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Time Out says

Josh Levin (Babbo) and Suzaan Hauptfleisch (La Grenouille) trade European-style fine dining for a South African–inspired vino spot on the fringes of the Upper East Side. The bar's name means "home" in Zulu and it's reflected in the rustic 50-seat spot, which features cheery touches like canning jars filled with flowers. While the 50-bottle wine list highlights a variety of new-world vinos, the food offerings focus solely on South Africa with small plates.

The vibe: Inviting, classy without stuffiness or ostentation–a place for adults who want to savor a night out. 

The food: They’ve got the wine bar’s requisite meat/cheese offerings, yes, but you should really try their South African fare, like a take on shrimp and grits, elk carpaccio, rooibos and cranberry marinated baby back ribs. The Gatsby sandwich is a highlight: garam masala chicken, pickled peppers, and fries on a Portuguese bun.

The drink: An extensive selection of wines includes a highlight on South African wineries. The pours are also generous. They’ve also got some lovely cocktailing, which isn’t super mixology faffery but is nonetheless tasty and well-realized. There’s also some tap beer and a selection of cans/bottles.

Time Out tip: Even if you’re not into wine, this is a great place to go for dinner. The friendly staff are happy to play guide through the extensive wine list and menu of South African fare.

Details

Address
1614 Third Ave
New York
10128
Cross street:
between 90th and 91st Sts
Transport:
Subway: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St
Price:
Average glass of wine: $15. AmEx, Disc, MC, V
Opening hours:
Monday - Thursday, 4pm-10pm; Friday & Saturday, 4pm-11pm; Sunday, 11am-10pm.
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