Brunch in Sunset Park

The previous evening's storm forgotten, brilliant wintery sunshine flooding Susan and Henry's new apartment, and Cafe Drake happily seated at the kitchen table savoring a delicious, beautifully presented brunch of Blood Orange, Pear and Fennel Salad (lightly dressed with kosher salt to draw out the fruit's natural sweetness), small batch Cabernet from Sonoma and a hearty pork ragu atop pasta bowties (earthy, concentrated flavors; a lovely balance of rich simmered meat with fresh herbs such as lemon balm, crowned with bits of chewy, salty Romano). Sloane proved to be terribly cordial dining company, with a smile as bright as the Spring-themed tablescape of cheery lemons and daffodil candles.