(Two Rocks Farm Buffalo Mozzarella with Spring Onions, Marcona Almond, & Romesco Verde)
When your husband approaches you about a last minute day trip to the city with your kids (two under two), you’re hesitant. When there are promises of a long lunch at one of your favorite Italian spots (Cotogna) that changes things a bit. This was the first time we would be making such a trip with the kids so at the very least it would be a learning experience for our family. I don’t know if it was the timing or pure luck but we made it to the city in great time after a quick bathroom stop and both kids having had their naps. The key to this trip was snacks for Preston. Keeping our toddler happy seems to keep the whole family happy. We’re basically held hostage by an adorable (almost) two year old with a full head of man hair.
Lunch was a true dining experience. We took our time coursing out our meal and enjoyed some wine. Chloe stuck with her cereal while Preston surprised us by being adventurous and trying almost everything we ordered. It was pretty awesome seeing him take such a liking to bottarga (salted, cured fish roe), but we should have expected nothing less from this umami kid. After lunch we headed to a nearby park to get some exercise and stretch out before heading back home. We learned some things on this trip: a day trip to the city is totally doable, just say “yes” to bottarga, and an umbrella is the most fun thing ever.
Here’s our day in photos.
Preston was pretty tickled by the Piatti Del Giorno
He graciously ordered the first course for the table.
Then helped himself to the rigatoni while mom went for the troccoli. He loves any opportunity to use a giant serving spoon.
(Rigatoni with Poached Tuna & Bottarga (Left). Troccoli with Octopus Ragu, Snow Peas, and Basil (right)).
(Spit Roasted Pork with Asparagus & Spinach)
“How old do I have to be to gnaw on a spit roasted pork bone?” - Chloe Kim
“What are these things and why don’t we have these at home?” - Preston James
We never imagined the umbrella we packed to provide some shade for Chloe would be the best part of his day.
Seriously, this went on for over an hour.
Preston loved that onshore breeze off the bay.
Leave a Reply