There is nothing we love more than a bookstore/cafe combo, and though they are already popular in other parts of the world, it seems that more and have been popping up in the US recently. A good example of this trend is Archestratus Books & Foods (160 Huron St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn), a cookbook/food book shop with a Sicilian bakery and cafe. Food books and Sicilian cuisine – two of our favorite things! Named after the Greek-Sicilian philosopher Archestratus, owner Paige Lipari calls on her heritage to serve classic Sicilian treats like cannoli and arancini in the cafe. In addition to the books and food, Archestratus also hosts demos and events.
We visited Archestratus only a few days after it opened, so when we visited, the cafe was not yet serving its full menu. However, the book section was in full swing, and we were really impressed with the huge selection of cookbooks and food related books, both new and vintage. Carrying books ranging from the Nordic cookbook Fire + Ice to a spiral-bound 1950s community church cookbook, the store had everything, divided into sections by region and interest. In the back, the cafe serves espresso, wine, beer and pastries, and we noshed on coffee and Southern Italian pistachio tuiles. Now they even boast “blue plate specials” including dishes like ravioli, Swiss chard cake and a Sicilian panzanella. We can’t wait to visit again and sample the full menu. Archestratus is definitely on our NYC agenda, and it is a must-visit for any food lover.
Eating The World 