August in October

There's nothing like ferreting out a new dining haunt - especially in the West Village. Unfortunately, I was a little late on the draw when it came to August, a cozy Mediterranean-inspired bistro which sports an open wood-burning oven, a charming skylight-enclosed back patio and an attentive staff.

Settling into a table for two in the tiny front dining room (pictured above), enjoying the faux weathered surroundings and glorious aromas emanating from the oven, my friend Laurel and I pounced on the menu. With Laurel recently back from a trip to Greece, it took us no time to decide on an appetizer of Grilled Octopus with Marinated Chickpeas, Red Onion, Oregano and Lemon. The menu cited the dish as being from Portuguese origin. Menu-schmenu. This luscious dish would've been right at home on the Aegean.

For an entree Laurel couldn't help but go Greek, ordering a beautifully prepared piece of Cod served up with Skordalia, Roasted Beets and Slices of Orange. I drifted off to Italy with a dish of Guinea Hen "Il Mattone," cooked under a brick, lavished with salt and herbs, topped with a slightly spicy mix of crisp wax and green beans with tomatoes.

Two glasses of Braccheto D'Acqui, a dish of Chocolate and Hazelnut Gelato and a plate of Panna Cotta with Moscato Soaked Peaches later and we were glowing with unadulterated epicurean bliss.

Leaving the restaurant we were surprised that the weather was so cool. It was August after all - Wasn't it?