D.O.C. Wine Bar

D.O.C. has a relaxed atmosphere replete with subtle European charm. Sampling wine is a breeze at D.O.C. Wine Bar. Opt for the tiny two-ounce marzianetto glass for a small sample; once you’ve found a vintage you adore, order a full glass called a bicchierrre. Owner, Claudio Coronas raves about the Selegas, Nuragos a very rare grape from Sardinia ($8 for a bicchierre). The wine is refreshing, but full. Or sample the Cabernet Franc Villa Martina, a red wine with a lively airy quality and smooth berry flavors ($8). A Southern Italian favorite from the menu is the taglieri platter of Italian cheese, charcuterie and fruit. For $12, this no-fuss supper is presented on a wood cutting board. The all-Italian wine list is seasonal and will shift to include more white wines for the Summer. more

Anyone feeling wanderlust would do well stopping in at this neighborly spot just on the other side of the East River. It'll give you a full glimpse of what it's like to hang out in a local wine bar on the island of Sardinia.

Located on the ground floor of a residential building, D.O.C. intends to be the place for locals ("we close whenever people want to leave, 3, 4 in the morning"), building loyalty with an extensive wine list that can be bought by the demi-tasse, glass, carafe, or bottle. Accompanying the wines is a simple but thoughtful menu of Sardinian bar food. You'll find regional favorites such as salty, crispy flat bread (made expressly for shepherds who herded sheep for months at a time); artisanal sheep and goat's milk cheeses, and a "chocolate sausage" dessert that is sure to make even Mario Batali drool. more