I adore cheesecake. For the longest time, I was an ardent believer that the best cheesecake in New York City (and I know this is a dangerous topic) lived at Veniero's Pasticceria in the East Village.
But I have found a higher order of cheesecake being. It makes its fleeting, ephemeral appearances at a famous NY eatery, a place called Babbo - owned by one Mario Batali. But credit for the creation of this amazing dessert goes to his pastry chef, Gina DePalma.
What is this magical edible thing? It's a maple-mascarpone cheesecake and it's unlike any cheesecake I've had before. The texture is so light and airy that you can eat the whole thing after a 10 course tasting menu and genuinely believe your pants won't pop off (as I did). The flavor is delicate yet rich - it comforts, and avoids over powering the taster with sweetness. And the presentation is delightful - don't dwell on it too long as this thing is better off in your mouth and tummy!
Make sure you order it. And if you dare to try recreating this piece of heaven on a plate, you can try the recipe too.
Babbo
110 Waverly Place
New York, NY
212.777.0303
