I’ve at all times considered myself a meat and potatoes type of girl. I never thought I’d enjoy a restaurant serving all-natural vegan; grass fed, organic, vegetarian, gluten free dishes until last week.
Anchored in the heart of Cobble Hill, with a flair of taste, is a Russian restaurant with ambiance and pizazz. Karloff has been a staple on Court Street for five years. Owner Olga Potap opened the establishment after living in Brooklyn Heights; he was familiar with the area. He had been attempting to find a location in Manhattan but found this hidden gem and it opened as a cafe in 2010.
The atmosphere was different when it first opened; it is hard not to adapt to the trend that’s on the rise in Brooklyn. Today tin ceilings, sturdy wood furniture and dim lighting set the stage for a romantic yet upscale dining experience. Olga said, “Everyone in the neighborhood comes here to eat. We are also kid friendly, so lots of young families from Tribeca come here. Many famous writers and artists have also come here.”
With a tempting lunch menu consisting of eggs, a burger with bacon or a grilled red pepper aioli, and a few tempting VARENIKIS, you can stick to your meal plan. The kasha tofu and buckwheat were out of this world; You’ll have a hard time deciding what to eat! Dinner is special starters and stock a selection of main courses and spicy tasting plates for under $26.00. Come for a late night cup of coffee and let your taste buds do some foreplay with one of their heavenly desserts like ponchiki, cheese blintzes or affogato. Whatever the menu item, you will not be disappointed.
Come Segway to the bar – Karloff is known for his vodka. Olga likes to instill a savory and unforgettable spirit, which makes the bar and customers stand out. With walnut, beetroot, cucumber and coffee flavored vodka drinks, you will not must twist my arm to come here again.
The menu consists of old grandmother’s recipes. The kale salad and potato latkes are my favourites. I ate a plate full of latkes with sour cream and felt no guilt. “Grass fed beef. We work with many growers and have a lot of natural ingredients. This restaurant can accommodate 57 people sitting comfortably and 75 people standing.” Olga knows the entire menu and how to run a restaurant. He’s there six days a week, talking about hot businesswomen! The restaurant also caters for each occasion and delivers in the local area.
Karloff turns on the big screen television for the Super Bowl and other sporting events. If you are hosting an event, hosting a charity dinner or having a book signing this is the place.
You can find Karloff in the Cobble Hill section of Brooklyn, located at 254 Court Street.
Karloff owner: Olga Potap
