Scotch and Donuts - Atria

Section: Restaurants and Bars, Drink Up, Mar 18-Mar 24 2009
What: A Scotch and Donut Tasting at an unbelievable price.
Cost: $ ($15 for three gourmet donuts paired with scotch plus a bonus side of pineapple ice cream)
Address: Atria, 13-15 West 54th street(b/w 5th and 6th St)
Review:Wow. These donuts were orgasmic, melt-in-your-mouth affairs that put Dunkies to shame. And though I have never been a big fan of 100 proof Scotch, let me tell you, there was never an antidote for backlash winter weather than downing three shots of high-end whiskeys. (Whiskey virgins: here's a tip -- add a small dollop of H2O to your drink to buffer that ol' whiskey burn.)

Rating: 5 out of 5 fritters. I'm going back next Monday -- need I say more?

Sigiri

Section: Own This City, Passport NY, Jan 29-Feb 4 2009
What: A Sri Lankan restaurant in the East Village that has been drawing "homesick expats" for 20 years.
Cost: $ (Chicken Biryani $13.50, Aapa $10.00)
Address: Sigiri Sri Lanka Restaurant, 91 First Avenue (b/w 5th and 6th St)
Review: Delicious, plentiful portions of what was a worthwhile introduction to Sri Lankan favorites. The saffron and herb flavored basmati rice was crumbly with a couscous-like texture. A significant departure from its Indian counterparts. Chicken Lamprais ($13.50) came wrapped in a banana leaf and was spicy hot. Highly recommended. The Aapa served with onion sambol also raised the Fahrenheit, but remains a pass.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Rotis. TONY hit the spot with this Sri Lankan hole in the wall. Cramped tables and chairs could use a little work.