The LES: Like mushrooms after a rainstorm

J issues a report from the field (well, okay: the Lower East Side)

Ginsu Alert! Ginsu Alert! There's a new Italian place with
extraordinary Roman-style pizza called Palà
at 198 Allen Street (just south of Houston). They don't open until
next week, but I walked in off the street tonight and they fed me and introduced me to the Roman master baker responsible for
their very impressive dough (all organic, untreated whole wheat
flours, five day rest & rise, thirty minute cook time). The NY Times
was there today for an article next Wednesday.

Also: we recently (Sunday afternoon) ran into the 22-hour-old Divalicious Chocolate. The owner ("I'm a singer-chef") was demonstrably ambitious, effusive and more than happy to dip a pretzel (or marshmallow, or strawberry) for visitors in the Wonka-like chocolate fountain that flows at the counter. (Need one? They rent 'em.)

J promises more fun is on the way with promising café/bar Clandestino on Canal St. down the way from Les Enfants Terribles...