Bacari GDL

Bacari GDL Restaurant Review:

Whether for a round of craft cocktails and haute nibbles before a movie, or a relaxed dinner over executive chef Lior Hillel’s innovative Mediterranean fare and thoughtful selection of wines, Bacari GDL is perhaps the Americana’s most charming spot. Graceful chandeliers of repurposed wine bottles with Edison bulbs, a full-wall collage of wooden wine boxes, and a sidewalk patio out front surround a lively crowd. Service is fine and friendly. And the menu offers some pleasingly innovative dishes --- especially small “cicchetti” plates like fire-roasted octopus on a bed of Brussels sprouts and fig slaw with lime vinaigrette, spicy duck wings with blue cheese crème fraîche, and a savory lamb belly atop spinach mirepoix freekah. There’s handmade ricotta and beet gnocchi with chèvre fondue and chimichurri. Wood-fired pizza with smoked cremini mushrooms is a good pick, and a generous portion for sharing. Among the wines are nice Italian choices by the glass and bottle, like a Greco Bianco from Calabria or Negroamaro from Salento, that pair well with the food. Amaros are available, too. For dessert, the “best cake you ever had” --- a confection of Medjool dates, brown sugar caramel and crispy bacon --- might be close to the truth. Look for good daily happy hour specials with discounts on food and drink.