CELLO WINE BAR....229 East 53rd...NYC

Recently I had the pleasure of attending the Media Opening of the newest Wine Bar in Manhattan.
CELLO Wine Bar is located in midtown (229 East 53rd) (917-475-1131) and is close to everything.
The small space is utilized to the max, with Chef Marco Varela's kitchen in full sight of the candle lit seating area. The wine bar is under the direction of Wine Director Michael St. George, who has chosen wines that are of superior quality....I tried at least two dozen and all the choices tasted like RP 90+ wines.
Wine by the glass (YES, real Wine Glasses...the type you would have at home) costs $9-$15 per glass. Bottles are sold, as well...
Wine choices run the gamut from sparkling to Sauvignon Blanc; Fume Blanc; Chardonnay; Alberino; Merlot; Cabernet Sauvignon; Malbec; Syrah and Zinfandel.
The setting reminds me of being in a wine cave, rustic and charming with wood barrels, aging wine bottles and brick.
Chef Varela's small Italian plates pair perfectly with the wines. I recommend the classic fondue, artisanal cheeses and aged meats as a starter. Follow that with Italian Empanada, Italian meatballs al Diavolo and shrimp and chorizo bruscetta. What a meal!
What I missed were the panini's and homemade pizza.
If you have a sweet tooth, fresh peach pizza and cheese fondue are for you. Pair it with a dessert wine and you will be in heaven...
I highly recommend visiting this 'gem of a wine bar' in the Big Apple.
Philip S. Kampe
philip.kampe@thewinehub.com