What could be more romantic than a cozy, intimate dinner for Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, and any night of the week than a dinner or lunch at La Baraka? La Baraka is waiting for you with their classic French cuisine and a touch of North Africa, owing to the family’s Tunisian roots. The lovely dining room is decked for the occasion with flowers, hearts, French posters, soft lighting and music that sets the perfect mood for a wonderful meal. Make your reservation now for an unforgettable dining experience.
La Baraka has been a fixture on Northern Blvd. in Little Neck for nearly 47 years, run by four generations of the Sonigo Family who greet all their guests like family. Settle in with an aperitivo of Dubonnet or Kir while you nibble on the chef’s warm rolls and butter. The vibe here makes everyone feel very special and cared for.
Marie, granddaughter of Lucette, the lovely founder, recited the evening’s specials which included a flaky vol au vent filled with woodsy mushrooms. The trio of soups allow for a tasting of split pea, leak and potato, and of course French onion, which my enchanting companion deemed to be “excellent.” The Chef’s homemade country pate is not to be missed, served with crunchy toast points and cornichons. Moules farcies are fresh mussels swimming in an aromatic broth with garlic and parsley that you’ll soak up with those crusty rolls. Merguez are Tunisian style lamb and beef sausages with exotic seasoning that are perfect for sharing.
La Baraka offers a complete 4-course dinner with salad, appetizer, main course and dessert for just $45.95, a great way to try this delicious cuisine that includes duck a l’orange, a signature French dish perfectly cooked and served with a trio of sauces: orange, peach, and raspberry, stuffing and vegetables. Tender lamb chops are broiled with garlic while the veal is sauteed with roasted apples. Hanger steak with Bernaise sauce and boeuf bourguignon are hearty comfort dishes that you’ll love. Filet of salmon is moist and juicy, grilled with fresh dill and beautifully presented with sauteed vegetables and rice on imported china plates. Trout almondine and salmon with dill sauce are popular here, and filet of sole is topped with scallops, shrimp, crab meat, and cheese ($35.95). Order a bottle or glass of wine to accompany your meal, bien sur (of course)!
For a taste of Tunisia, I highly recommend the house special Couscous Royale cooked and served in a clay pot called a tagine. This beautiful pot is loaded with beef flank, tender lamb, chicken, and Merguez sausage over steamed couscous with chickpeas and vegetables scented with cumin and mild spices. This dish offers plenty to share, possibly with leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch for just $49.95.
Dessert is “de rigeur” in French restau- rants and our pear and almond tart melted in our mouths with its flaky, buttery crust. Crème caramel, cheesecake, delicate crepes Suzette with sugar or crepes filled with Nutella will end your meal nicely, along with a coffee.
Enjoy a hot lunch buffet Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 2pm with a plat du jour, or simply order off the a la carte menu. Private parties at La Baraka will astound your guests. Call to reserve for your next family occasion, business luncheon or dinner.
La Baraka is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5pm, and lunch from 11am to 2pm. Closed Monday. Visit their website for menus, photos, and history of the charming, hospitable Sonigo Family of La Baraka. Celebrate Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, and life in general at La Baraka!
www.labarakarest.com