By Doshka Harvey

In NYC there is an abundance of great restaurants and lounges to experience - Lea (located under the east walkway of The Hemsley Building) is a quaint and comfortable place to saunter into for the enjoyment of a full meal or, if you prefer, cocktails along with an array of appetizers.   

While this restaurant/wine bar/lounge can appeal to everyone, it is usually packed with after work suits from around the area.  This is actually not a bad thing if you are single female in search of a potential mate.  There seems to be good stock here.  But, enough about that, let's focus on the food.

Cocktail of choice:  The Geisha $12

This was a nice drink to have and went well with appetizers, though I must say mine was  slightly on the strong side.   Ingredients consisted of Amaretto di Saronno, Stoli citrus, sake, muddled lemon and sugar.

Appetizers of choice:

Brazilian Pasteis $6 (small serving)

When I last visited Lea their pasteis were $7 for a small with 3-4 pieces, however, it seems they have changed their pricing a bit.  A small serving is now $6 and a large $11, according to their website.  Pasteis are basically deep fried dough filled with chicken, corn and palmito (palmito is another name for heart of palm).  They are crispy and delicious.  I highly recommend trying these.

Chicken Satay $6 (small serving)

Previously $8 for a small serving, one can now savor six pieces for $6 ($11 for a larger serving).  Sometimes chicken satay can be so bland depending on where one goes, but not at Lea.  Their chicken satay is well seasoned.  No blandness here.  You can't go wrong with this one.  Don't forget to dip into their creamy peanut sauce.

Eel Avocado & Cucumber Role $5 (6 pieces) and Alaska Role $5 (6 pieces)

Pieces of sushi are so beautiful and colorful to look at.  They are akin to works of art to be appreciated and better yet once eaten.  Delightful presentation!

Lea NYC - 230 Park Ave.(btw 45th and 46th St.), Tel. (212) 922-1546, www.leanyc.com

All images © 2010 Doshka Harvey