• The Observer has issued its list of ten top restaurant newcomers. The top three pics include Smith's, Allen & Delancey, and Dovetail. [NYO]
  • Frank Bruni of the Times samples Alloro on the Upper East Side and walks away thinking the spot is focused "on creativity for creativity’s sake than on sensible, appealing results." [NYT]
  • Very expensive wine is even more expensive than before. But a bottle of 2005 Chateau Latour (Pauillac) at $1,950 is still "profound" and "gorgeous," says the Journal. [WSJ]
  • Another day, another new spirit. This time it's coconut brandy and vodka from Kazakhstan. [AM Lifestyle, Luxist]