A GLEANER'S DINNER

My big news to report on cheap eats is Vanessa's Cafe on 220 E 14th St. This no ambiance Chinese bubble tea joint serves up an in-house special Wednesday to Friday after 3PM. An order of pan fried pork dumplings (6-7 in an order) is only $1.40, tax included. The dumplings are fresh, juicy and tasty and I find myself gravitating to this corner of the city when I am in 'town' just to take advantage of this bargain. CHECK IT OUT!!

On a more local level I'd like to welcome the opening of Wine Life SI. On the bustling hip strip of Van Duzer (at Beach), this wine shop offers up a tasty and provocative collection. The inventory may be 'limited' due to the size of the space but the selection is thoughtful and well-balanced. All the wines are excellent for their price point. Most wines are priced under $20!
Vee and staff have pointed me in the direction of more than one new vineyard with which I've been delightfully impressed. A few new favorites include the La Martina Malbec, the Chateau Brun Labrie Bordeaux (oh so drinkable), and an organic Kimmeridgien Chardonnay from France which has replaced Chateau Montelina's Chard as my new favor; no oak, crisp, a nice mix of mineral and fruit. Don't overlook the Primaterra Pinot Grigio; in regular or economic size its delightfully refreshing for a PG, not too acidic with some lovely peachy after-notes. And under $10 for 750ml!!