Trek between Italian and Greek fare—sans hiking boots or currency conversions—without hitchhiking farther than Midtown. This new kid on the block offers up modern twists on classic European dining.

Maybe we didn't backpack across Western Europe. Heck, we might not even have hilarious hostel anecdotes. But we also don't end every discussion with, "It wasn't until I spent a year abroad that I truly understood jazz..." And, you know what? That's fine by us. We can take our culinary tour of the EU at Eclectic Bistro & Bar, and so can you (even if you did to all of the above.) Trek between Italian and Greek fare—sans hiking boots or currency conversions—without hitchhiking farther than Midtown. This new kid on the (Piedmont) block offers up modern twists on classic European dinery.

The owner, Laura, is from Romania. (Yes. It's safe to say she knows what's up.) She jumped the corporate ship to fulfill her restaurant dreams and satiate the A's need for quality, savory international fare. And fellas? She's done it. Whip open the front door, and you'll walk into a sleek set-up, with light streaming through huge windows and delicious smells wafting from the kitchen. Sturdy rough-hewn wooden tables abound—the kind that you could pound your fist on emphatically to settle a friendly gentleman's (or woman's) debate.

But don't get caught up in the friendly, laid-back atmosphere. We traveled all this way for the food, remember? Like a steaming bowl of Pasta Carbonara. We're talking a fantastical heap of noodley goodness, stuffed with hearty interjections of pancetta (that's Italian bacon, y'all), sweet peas and parmesan, all expertly coated in a creamy sauce that's just garlicky enough that your friends will still talk to you face- to-face. And the drinks? Classy. European classy. Eclectic uses fresh-on-the-market French liqueurs when possible—trés fancy, no? Their Classic M(mmm)ojito was one of the best we've had, with its perfectly balanced, refreshing limey goodness. Yup, these are fine purveyors of cocktail mixery, solid as the rocks they're poured upon. Sip a few of 'em on the super-sneaky back patio and even the most well-traveled soul will be feeling like they're on vacation.

(And no one needs to know those Instagram shots were taken stateside, you foodie, you.)

Menu Highlights:
Pasta Carbonara, $16
Eclectic Shish Kebob, $15
Classic Mojito, $8.50
Salmon Au Beurre Blanc, $17
Venetian Schnitzel, $12

Hours:
Monday - Sunday, 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.