Eclectic has always been the catchword at Bleu Evolution,
where the décor is heavy on vintage print fabrics, chandeliers
and other touches of artistic whimsy. Now there is another
word to describe Bleu: ten, as in tenth anniversary.
Founded in 1998 as the first outpost of urban chic in Northern
Manhattan, Bleu is unmistakably one of the elder statesmen in
the renaissance of the local culinary scene. The menu coalesced
about four years ago, specializing in Italian trattoria-style dishes.
Fresh-made house pastas include pappardelle, ricotta gnocchi
and fettuccine, complemented with an array of sauces,
such as veal bolognese, duck confit and sun dried tomato pesto
($8.95 to $21.95 small/large). One of the more popular entrees
is the Middle Eastern tinged braised lamb shank with roasted
tomatoes, garbanzos, couscous and au jus ($20.95). For starters,
Bleu serves one of Northern Manhattan’s most satisfying
salads, frisee with gorgonzola, poached pears and walnuts in a
pear vinaigrette ($9.95). For a truly worldly meal, sample the
escargots in garlic, lemon, butter, Pernod and parsley ($6.95)
on the seasonal backyard patio. It’s an experience that only
Bleu can deliver uptown.
