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| ITALIAN Gennaro: Italian. 665 Amsterdam @ 92-3rd; 23/16/$39; 665-5348; Amazing food; Dirt cheap for high end quality. Average service, small place, and they take no Rez or credit cards; Food incredible though. Wildly popular; Antipasto appetizer; Pasta entrees great; Tiramisu for dessert. Obviously, go during non-peak hours for no wait; Quality has been slipping as late – go for the pasta. Celeste: Italian. 502 Amsterdam @ 84th-85th; 24/12/$33; 874-4559; Wood oven pizzas; Naples inspired cuisine; Large portions – especially antipasti; No Rez/ credit cards; But, mouthwatering food including a secret cheese plate. Artichoke salad is amazing; Real-deal experience and a huge menu as well; You will not be disappointed. Best to go off-peak hours. Spiga: Italian. 200 W 84th @ Amsterdam; 22/17/$46; 362-5506; Romantic setting; Creative, improving food. Rustic décor; Consistent quality of food; Large portions of heartily prepared classics. Cesca: Italian. 164 W 75th @ Amsterdam; 23/21$58; 787-6300; Hearty, rustic dishes; Trendy; Southern Italian; Roomy; Very popular; Celebrate here; Large open space; Vibrant bar scene; Classy yet comfy. Have a Monday 1/2 price wine deal; Date and family friendly; Wonderful Artisanal cheese flights; Medium sized menu; Nice bar for a drink. A Voce: Italian. 10 Columbus Circle; 25/22/$61; 823-2523; Michelin 1-star; New York Times’ highest 3-star rating; Seasonal Italian masterworks; Huge buzz about the place so reserve well in advance; About 16 entrees & 6 or 7 appetizers – mouthwatering descriptions on the menu; Chef Missy Robbins nails it; Check website as each location has different entrees (also on Mad/26th). Affordable for its quality. Marea: Italian. 240 Central Park S @ 7th Av-BWay; 27/26/$90; 582-5100; Chef Michael White kills it at Zagat’s #1 ranked Italian; Impeccable service and gorgeous décor; Signature dish is Fusilli with octopus and bone marrow; Michelin 2-star rated; About 17 or so sliced raw fish and shellfish to pick from at $17 a pop; Appetizers are epic ($20 or so); Pastas are to die for ($30 or so each); Incredible Risotti; They suggest you go with the $90 four course prix fixe. Basso56: Italian. 234 W 56th @ B-Way-8th; 23/18/$49; 265-2610; Extensive menu of consistent classics sure to please any patron; Ultra friendly service and ideal pre-theatre; The Buffalo Mozz appetizer and Seafood pasta…mmm; Overall, the pasta dishes stand out with their simple creativity that always impresses; Very popular restaurant that almost never disappoints. Patsy’s: Italian. 236 56th @ BWay-8th; 22/18/$51; 247-3491; Old school feel; Restaurant decorated with celebrity memorabilia; Southern Italian classics; Sinatra’s old stomping grounds. At home cooking. I’d suggest getting an at-home type of meal like a red sauce based pasta dish; Or, buy their sauce or cookbook on the way out and enjoy at home; Perfect for out-of towners. Monstrous menu. Il Corso: Italian. 54 W 55th St @ 6th Av; 23/20/$54; 957-1500; High end fine dining; Tables are separated nicely; Creative selections; Classy establishment & a friendly, professional staff. The Risotto and Tiramisu stand out. Slightly older crowd; Just a delicious menu with much to choose from – mostly classic Italian dishes with some unique offerings. Bocca di Bacco: Italian. 828 9th Av @ 54th-55th; 22/21/$43; 265-8828; Start off with a wine from their outstanding list- really, a great wine bar as well; Rustic look with dramatic wood doors leading in- cozy, date environment; Mixed reviews on service; Huge appetizer and salads list. Homemade pastas; Can not go wrong food wise and the prices are right. Remi: Italian. 145 W 53rd @ 6-7th Av; 22/22/$61; 581-4242; Venetian meals prepared flawlessly; Risotto dishes stand out; Lively space great for dates or groups; Tuna-filled ravioli; Murals set the décor. La Masseria: Italian. 235 W 48th @ B-Way-8th Av; 22/19/$56; 582-2111; You will be treated like family; Southern Italian classics; Eggplant & smoked Mozz with homemade pasta is a standout; Warm country house setting; Outstanding menu – go for 3 courses to enjoy it all (appetizer, pasta dish and main course); Wide selection of wines and desserts to top it off. Lattanzi: Italian. 361 W 46th @ 8-9th Av; 21/18/$53; 315-0980; Pre-Theatre favorite; Wonderful back garden, friendly service, romantic setting; Food not bad either! Perfect before show. Pastas are a stand-out; The food is overpriced overall but a great fallback to Becco on Restaurant Row for a pre-theatre Italian; Very strong wine list as well. Becco: Italian. 355 W 46th @ 8-9th; 23/17/$44; 397-7597; All u can eat Pasta for $22.95- 3 selections to choose from; Other great selections on menu choices (way to go); Nice bar; Massive $25 a bottle wine list; Yet still upscale & perfect pre-theatre. Immensely popular and best Italian on restaurant row; Overall- they do a great job, especially if you are in a rush. Orso: Italian. 322 W 46th @ 8th-9th Av; 22/18/$56; 489-7212; One of the best “restaurant row” restaurants; Wonderful appetizers including Bufala Mozz, Yellow Fin Tuna Tartar, Escargot, Beef Carpaccio and Veal & Ricotta meatballs; 6-7 pizza entrees; Lots of meat and pasta dishes – pasta available in half portions; Great sides; Superior pre-theatre choice and quality Tuscan fare.
Carmine’s: Italian. 200 44th @ B-Way; 20/15/$40; 221-3800; Legendary Italian institution; Family Style featuring Massive portions; Great for a group; Loud and always packed; Incredibly fun if not the best quality wise. Go with Italian classic standards and prepare to have fun; Reserve well in advance; Food features lots of garlic (perfect for me).
Il Punto: Italian. 507 9th Av @ 38th; 22/17/$47; 244-0088; Despite a poor location, incredible food; More than made up for by welcoming staff & family owned excellence. Gorgeous inside; Puglian inspired menu. Try the lobster ravioli and other seafood dishes- very fresh; Homemade dishes and many menu selections not typical of an Italian restaurant. Monk fish is awesome. Da Umberto: Italian. 107 W 17th @ 6th-7th Av; 25/20/$59; 989-0303; Beautiful dining room with a strong Italian feel and well spaced tables; Fantastic Italian-focused wine list, though wines not cheap; The Antipastis are to die for- many to choose from including grilled calamari; Shrimp scampi; chicken breast with bufala mozz & tomatoes; SO many great dishes! Expect A+ level service. DANI – 8.5
Del Posto: Italian. 85 10th Av @ 15th-16th; 27/27/$94; 497-8090; Mario Batali flagship; Gorgeous, large interior divinely decorated with marble and mahogany; Service is professional and helpful; Massive wine list and sommeliers to aid; NY Times 3-stars; Michelin 1-star; Five course Tasting menu is the way to go & features lots to choose from ($95); Seven courses $125; The food is just flat out unbelievable. Ideal for a special occasion, engagement, or celebration. Gorgeous bar area as well and live piano. DANI - 9
Crispo: Italian. 240 W 14th @ 7-8th; 23/19/$46; 229-1818; Hopping spot; Romantic, date friendly; Affordable and top shelf service. Gorgeous all-season back garden patio; Daily pasta specials and polenta stand out. Amazing Spaghetti Carbonara and risotto balls; 150-seat establishment; Extensive wine list; Very large menu – especially appetizers;
Gradisca: Italian. 126 W 13th @ 6-7th Av; 23/18/$52; 691-4886; Wildly popular, known for superb homemade pastas; Fairly romantic setting and charming service; Go earlier as it can get noisy; Standout dishes include Prosciutto di Parma, Buff Mozz, Canneloni with Maine Lobster; There is a 6 course tasting menu for $80; Only major issue is the fairly minimal menu for an Italian. Antica Venezia: Italian; 396 West St @ W 10th; 22/20/$52; 229-0606; Incredible service and décor in this romantic charmer; Great view of the Hudson and ideal romance spot. Anniversary heaven; Pastas and grilled entrees are wonderful; Extras – gratis cordials; Just a solid date spot. Menu features numerous classic Italian selections to please any palate; Reliable and consistent. Barbuto: Italian. 775 Washington @ Jane-W 12th; 924-9700; 23/19/$50; Beautiful setting, especially in summer; Freshly prepared meals with stunning presentation. Season-driven kitchen with unique entrees; Eclectic scene; Signature dish is Pollo al Forno; Top Chef winner Jonathan Waxman; Cool location set in a converted garage – which is opened in the summer. Superb wine list. Limited menu. Malatesta Trattoria: Italian. 649 Washington Av @ Christopher; 24/17/$35; 741-1207; Hugely popular, this classic West Village red-sauce / red wine mecca serves amazingly inventive and tasty meals; Outdoor seating available. Features grilled calamari, spinach gnocchi and a cash only policy; Country house feel inside; Lots of specials; Fairly uncomplicated menu with Italian all-time classics. Morandi: Italian. 211 Waverly @ Charles; 22/20/$53; 627-7575; Very nicely presented dinner menu; Also brunch, lunch and a bar scene; Keith McNally inspired; Rustic Italian in a high energy setting; Very popular, and magnetic space. Very pleasant décor – comfortable – and great service; Tremendous appetizers including grilled calamari and octopus; Il Giglio: Italian. 81 Warren @ Greenwich; 25/19/$67; 571-5555; First up, the service will blow you away- super friendly and helpful; Outstanding food including a free antipasto; Veal chop stuffed with Mozz; Quaint setting that can be used for a date or family outing; Closed Sundays; Calamari Fra Diavolo is outstanding; Shrimp Scampi done different ways. Diamond in the ruff worth the trip.
Giorgione: Italian. 307 Spring @ Greenwich-Hudson; 24/20/$45; 352-2269; Known for amazing Wood oven individual pizzas; Also showcase a mouthwatering array of pasta dishes and salads; Appetizers include Buffalo Mozz and a great Lobster, Crabmeat Calamari and Shrimp salad; Kind service is a hip west Soho location complete the scene. Nice wine list. Locanda Verde: Italian. 377 Greenwich @ Moore; Greenwich Hotel; 24/23/$59; 925-3797; Majorly popular hotspot; Celebrities and sexy cliental; Date central; Beautiful setting; Lamb meatball sliders and Sheep Milk’s Ricotta are standouts; Weekend brunch; Try Chef Andrew Carmellini’s “My Grandmother’s Ravioli” or one of the daily specials; Medium sized menu – check it out. Very unique offerings. Gusto: Italian. 60 Greenwich @ Perry; 23/21/$53; 924-8000; Like dining in Italy; Fantastic brunches featuring multiple Bloody Mary types & 1 hour unlimited drinks; Pastas are rustic with such things as wild boar & oxtail ragus; Large, fun menu, complex at times; Wine list is strong; Large open space; Try it for lunch or a long dinner with friends. Lots of specials. Fun, fun scene. Grano Trattoria: Italian. 21 Greenwich @ W 10th; 23/18/$40; 645-2121; Packed with local regulars; Known for brick over pizzas; Homemade pastas; Large, huge menu; Like dining in someone’s living room. The style of a suburban Italian restaurant. Everything on the menu, everything affordable. Perfect for diners with discernable tastes. Ideal for lunch or dinner. Piccolo Angolo: Italian. 621 Hudson @ Jane; 25/13/$39; 229-9177; Great food; Neighborhood spot; Tiny and Popular; Fun staff; Red sauce classics featuring giant sized meatballs; Food expertly prepared. Family style servings; Make a Rez and go early to avoid crowded setting; Lobster cannelloni; Garlic bread perfection; Very highly rated – very popular. Very casual – perfect spot for fun time. I Sodi: Italian. 105 Christopher @ Bleecker; 25/17/$56; 414-5774; The house special is the artichoke lasagna; Smallish place that gets crowded; Maybe the way to go is to eat at the beautiful bar; Foodies love the place; Somewhat of a limited menu but nice for a casual date; Creative wine list; Antipasta is delicious with cheeses and meats galore. Dell’Anima: Italian. 38 8th Av @ Jane; 24/19/$52; 366-6633; Quaint, high end newcomer; Exquisite ingredients used in unique preparations; Bruchetta is excellent; Dinner can be pricy if you order wine. Ever improving quality; Sexy crowd in this date friendly West Villager; Go next door to Andora- their sister bar for a drink while waiting; Weekend brunch. Clean, non-descript setting; Striped Bass- yum.
Babbo: Italian. 110 Waverly Pl @ MacDougal-6th; 27/23/$78; 777-0303; Mario Batali’s flagship Restaurant; Wildly popular; Epic food; Flawless service; Carriage house setting; Probably overpriced for quality. Received 3 stars from NY Times; Truly an experience to dine here; Pasta ($69) and traditional ($75) tasting menus available; Oxtail gnocchi; Quite a large menu for a top restaurant.
Otto: Pizza. 1 Fifth Av @ 8th St; 23/19/$38; 995-9559; Mario Batali owned; Gourmet Pizzas and great pastas; Dirt cheap for quality; North side of Wash Sq park; Great for parties. Designer pies; Incredible wine list – endlessly long; They also offer superior Gelato; Also a nice bar to have a drink sans pizza if you prefer; Detractors say the quality doesn’t match the prices. Lupa: Italian. 170 Thompson @ Bleecker – Houston; 24/18/$52; 982-5089; Extremely good; Affordable pricing for quality; Popular, date central, hot spot; Compared to Babbo; Hospitality top shelf; Tough to get a table- they do take walk-ins if you go early; Perfect rustic Italian fare- Mario Batali influenced. Portions not huge but dishes always filled with flavor. Lamb short ribs delicious. Marinella: Italian. 49 Carmine @ Bedford; 22/16/$41; 807-7472; Wonderful home feel- you will feel like a regular; Northern & Southern Italian; So friendly as well; Like a living room. Blackboard menu; Relaxing vibe. Complimentary bruschetta; Favored by locals; Service can be a bit slow. Try the Veal Scaloppine Alla Valdostana or Smoked Mozz; Po: Italian. 31 Cornelia @ Bleecker – W 4th; 24/16/$48; 645-2189; Close to perfect cooking; $50 6-course tasting menu way to go; Extremely small place; Always packed; Famous white bean bruschetta; Extremely romantic; What this place is, is a true West Village experience; Great service, unique menu and excellent cooking; Menu is seasonal so check website. Palma: Italian. 28 Cornelia @ Bleecker; 22/20/$53; 691-2223; Known for mouth watering Sicilian specialties; Mediterranean influenced food; Adoring staff, happy to serve you; Garden in summer; Romantic- it’s like dining in Italian countryside; Smallish. Buffalo Mozz; Homemade dumplings & pastas; Sea Bass; Fisherman’s stew. Somewhat of a limited menu. Il Mulino: Italian. 86 W 3rd St@ Sullivan – Thompson; 27/19/$85; 673-3783; Epic quality food; Surprisingly large portions, often too big to finish; Impossibly tender osso buco falling off the bone with risotto; Effortless service, quality wine; Every dish is sparkling with quality. Works of art. Worth the $$ splurge. 2-3 free appetizers brought to table to start meal; Order off the daily specials! Acappella: Italian. 1 Hudson @ Chambers; 25/22/$68; 240-0163; First up – gorgeous interior featuring well spaced tables and well lit brick walls on one side with paintings on others- old world feel; Tuxedoed waiters- amazing service; Free grappa after dinner; Not a huge menu (15 entrees) but wow; Veal Chop, Lamb Chop, Branzino, and pasta dishes… yum; Appetizers are flat out incredible. Il Corallo Trattoria: Italian. 176 Prince @ Sullivan-Thompson; 22/14/$27; 941-7119; Bargain basement cheap; Massive menu; Known for huge choice in brilliantly prepared pastas. Service/ setting is iffy. But food wows you. Also – cheap beyond belief- Appetizers all under $10, pastas $8-$14; Many great pizza entrees as well; By large menu, I mean about 100+ things to choose from. Mezzogiorno: Italian. 195 Spring @ Sullivan; 21/18/$44; 334-2112; Outdoor seating in nice weather; Pleasant dining experience; Tuscan classics that are always solid. Mozz di Bufala; Sauteed calamari; Baby artichokes; Prosciutto di Parma; Amazing pasta dishes including Tagliolini with crab meat in a spicy marinara; Lots of veal dishes, sea bass and individual pizzas available. Great menu. Aurora: Italian. 510 Broome @ Thompson-WB-Way; 25/21/$47; 334-9020; Incredibly freshpasta and ingredients; Beautiful, relaxing décor- farmhouse setting; Top service; Top of the line. Sexy space- though slightly small – but worth it for an amazing menu of standard and creatively new selections. Midrange pricing helps; Serve brunch as well (cocktail included). Just a happy place. Pepolino: Italian. 281 W B-Way @ Canal; 25/18/$52; 966-9983; High end Northern Italian; Two levels- better upstairs & quieter; Cool, modern feel with excellent service; Tasty classics of highest caliber. Try the Mussels or the Braised Lamb Shank; Like dining in a townhouse – charming; Brunch and lunch available; Fabulous Antipasto; A dozen to die for pasta selections; Calamari stew. Il Cortile: Italian. 125 Mulberry @ Canal-Hester; 24/21/$50; 226-6060; Innovative Italian; Garden room; True Italian feel. Sizable portions served by a friendly, experienced waitstaff. Garden room or outdoor seating perfect for a date; Touristy, but locals love it too; They have a cocktail lounge; Any form of seafood served Marinara, Fra Diavolo, Garlic & Oil or Milanese. Massive menu. Il Fornaio: Italian. 132A Mulberry @ Grand; 22/15/$32; 226-8306; Fun, friendly environment. Gem of a find on tourist-central Mulberry where red-sauce classics dazzle. Large, and I mean large menu & fair pricing seal the deal. Ideal for lunch or a casual dinner; Not the best date place due to average ambiance. Probably the best bang for the buck in area. Pellegrino’s: Italian. 138 Mulberry @ Grand-Hester; 24/18/$43; 226-3177; Delicious fare; Touristy but still a delightful experience; Service is tops. Traditional Little Italy Classic; Possibly the best on this strip; Can sit outside; Treated like royalty. Fun to watch the tourists go by; Red sauce classics; Rigatoni in Vodka sauce. Bufala Mozz; Ideal for lunch or dinner or anytime while sightseeing. Angelo’s of Mulberry: Italian; 146 Mulberry @ Grand-Hester; 23/16/$46; 966-1277; Been around forever; Pasta and Garlic lovers gravitate here; One of the best in Little Italy. Red sauce classics; Lines out the door for a reason; Stereotypical, but tried and true. True Italian feel with a staff that is heavily Italian; Huge portions and long wine list; 20 appetizers ($10-$15), 20 pastas, 30+ meat & fish dishes ($20-$30). Da Nico: Italian. 164 Mulberry @ Broome-Grand; 22/18/$39; 343-1212; Absolutely nothing wrong with this fine Little Italy selection; Solid all round; Garden & back patio in summer; Large portions for moderate sums; Coal oven pizzas. Calamari Fra Diavolo is delish; Menu has about every classic Italian standard to choose from; Charming vibe. Bianca: Italian. 5 Bleecker @ Bowery-Eliza; 23/18/$31; 260-4666; Date spot; Great value; Authentic food; Homemade pastas; Lasagna with béchamel ($12) & meat ragu; Gnocco Fritto- yum; Attentive service; Inviting bar next door for a pre or post dinner beverage; Limited menu is only drawback but at these prices and quality – who cares! Peasant: Italian. 194 Elizabeth @ Prince-Spring; 24/22/$54; 965-9511; Unique menu and amazing setting; Opera-set open kitchen; Romantic and sleek; Outstanding wine bar downstairs; Rustic & urban chic; Wood burning oven; Their bread is fantastic; Signature dish is suckling pig; Seafood salad, Pizza Margherita w/ Mozz; Speghetti scampi; Grilled Sea Bass; Lots of specials. Apizz: Italian; 217 Eldridge @ Rivington-Stanton; 24/21/$45; 253-9199; Off the beaten track location is only reason tables available- but it’s close to tons of nightlife; Brick oven classics; Romantic and toasty vibe; Mascarpone Ravioli; Whole fish; Variety of classics. Signature dishes also include butternut squash ravioli and gnocchi with short ribs; Extremely strong option for a date; Medium sized menu. Il Buco: Italian. 47 Bond St (2nd St) @ Bowery-Lafayette; 26/24/$62; 533-1932; Unimaginably good Italian; Heavenly creations in a charming, perfect setting; Great date place & great scene; Stylish and cool; See website. Seasonal menu; Dining in a charming living room. Chef Ed Witt. Best wine list (400 labels). They have a romantic wine cellar perfect for a party; Celeb magnet; Supper: Italian. 156 2nd St @ Av A-B; 25/19/$38; 477-7600; Inexpensive amazing Italian; Wine bar next door while you wait for a table; Incredible pastas. Simple yet superb; Always packed; Cash only; No Rez; You really feel like you are in Italy – date friendly – cozy atmosphere; Tons of daily specials; Mozzarella to die for; Seared & sautéed Calamari; Not a huge menu but specials rule the day. Il Bagatto: Italian. 192 2nd St @ Av A-B; 24/16/$38; 228-0977; Down to earth, unreal good food; Classic selections; Reasonably priced wines. Famed for homemade pastas; One of the most popular dishes is the Grilled Calamari; Fairly tight seating so go early! Pleasant service; Not a huge menu but overall outstanding; After dinner drink selection caught my eye. Perbacco: Italian. 234 E 4th St @ Av A-B; 24/18/$43 253-2038; Italian-style Tapas - Small plates; Great preparation. Charming staff. Excellent wines. Casual setting that works food magic; Small like a Tapas place, however. Crème Brulee dessert is tops; Flash fried Calamari, shrimp and scallops; Grilled shrimp; Trio of Bruschette; Some brilliante dishes here; Unique menu – try it. Aroma: Italian. 36 E 4th St @ Bowery-Lafayette; 24/18/$40; 375-0100; Near Astor Place, this amazing & fresh gem always supplies a top experience. Cool for a pre-dinner drink as well; Doubles as a wine bar; The menu has many creative entrees that are sure to satisfy; Worth a look. Ossobuco, Lamb Chops…all top shelf. Stuffed calamari…mmm; Have a tasting menu. Lavagna: Italian. 545 E 5th @ Av A-B; 24/19/$44; 979-1005; Intimate Italian; Wine List is outstanding; Value priced top notch food; Ideal date spot; Wonderfully prepared food. Diamond in the ruff. Wine list filled with top choices, well priced; $32 prix fixe from 6-7pm daily; Menu is full of creative dishes, but is somewhat limited in scope. I Coppi: Italian. 432 9th St @ Av A-1st Av; 23/20/$47; 254-2263; Gorgeous, welcoming Italian- love the décor; Year round back garden is key here; Incredible pastas & entrees; Wines list superb & extensive. Great people. Menu features Spaghetti allo scoglio with jumbo shrimp, calamari in a fra diavolo sauce; Lots of specials and affordable prices make this a must date spot. Gnocco Café: Italian. 337 E 10th @ Av A-B; 24/17/$37; 677-1913; Fried Dough appetizer; Garden; Date spot- perfect in nice weather; Heavenly food. Quality pastas- especially gnocchi; Relaxed atmosphere with modest tabs for the quality. Can get crowded and cramp if not in the garden; Medium sized menu with scrumptious choices- most featuring mozzarella; Desserts are outstanding. Barbone: Italian. 186 Av B @ 11-12th St; 24/19/$44; 254-6047; Known for stellar pasta dishes; Top shelf treatment from chef-owner; Affordable and pleasant dining experience;. Back garden; Enjoy a martini at the bar beforehand, or a wine; Duck ravioli is special; Truly an exquisite experience; Offer 10+ appetizers, 8-10 pastas and 7-8 entrees along with specials; Mouthwatering. All pasta is homemade. Da Andrea: Italian. 35 W 13th @ 5-6th Av; 23/17/$37; 367-1979; So good it’s scary; Homestyle, affordable cuisine; Treated like family; Mouth watering menu. Homemade freshly made pastas; Giant menu with all the classics and more; Very affordable; House wine is outstanding; Non-pretentious, date friendly and always reliable; Pretty much a no-brainer. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza: Pizza. 328 E 14th @ 1-2nd Av; 24/9/$13; 228-2004; Just a storefront setting but the new trendy spot in the city for the best slice; Signature artichoke dip –topped pie; Long lines but this is the new “John’s Pizza” Basta Pasta: Italian. 37 W 17th @ 5th Ave; 23/16/$43; 366-0888; Japanese-Italian fusion; Sushi dishes, amazing pasta dishes and main courses infused with both styles; Open kitchen; Adventurous, excellent pastas; Boring-ish (yet sleek) décor isn’t noticed when one is dining on pasta perfection. Signature dish is: Spaghetti with Parm & Prosciutto served in a half wheel of melted Parm cheese. Yum! Bocca: Italian. 39 E 19th @ B-Way-Park; 23/20/$49; 387-1200; Same ownership as Cacio e Pepe; Fun, enjoyable vibe; Features a pasta served in a pecorino cheese wheel – a must; Comfortable booths available; Dirt cheap weekday lunch specials; Very friendly service; Artisanal cheeses available; Truly excellent pasta dishes and appetizers while limited fish and meat-entrée selections. La Pizza Fresca Ristorante: Italian. 31 E 20th @ B-Way-Park; 23/18/$42; 598-0141; Casual, excellent Neapolitan pizzas; Endless varieties to choose from; Pizza is made in the tradition of Naples; Wonderful imported bufala Mozz used in pizzas and for an appetizer; Have many amazing pasta dishes available in full and half portions. $7/ beer; Nice wine list; Naples has found its way to Union Square. Maialino: Italian. 2 Lexington Av @ 21st St; Gramercy Park Hotel; 24/23/$67; 777-2410; Another Danny Meyer restaurant production; Signature roast pig dinner; Excellent breads and olive oils; Features an extensive menu with something for everyone; Huge wine list – many reasonably priced; Great scene as well; Weekend brunch; Spaghetti Carbonara & Sea Bass stand out; Cheese plates. Gorgeous interior. Novita: Italian. 102 E 22nd @ Lex-Park; 24/19/$55; 677-2222; Elegant, always improving fare; Standard and inventive fare; Great anniversary date spot. Tight-ish space (60 seats); Fresh Mozz; Bruchetta; Kobe beef carpaccio; Grilled shrimp with crabmeat; tuna rolls; About a dozen ultra fresh pasta dishes – all yummy such as Rigatoni with seared Yellowfin Tuna & Black spaghetti with seafood fra diavolo; A Voce: Italian. 41 Madison Av @ 26th; 25/22/$61; 545-8555; Michelin 1-star; New York Times’ highest 3-star rating; Seasonal Italian masterworks; Huge buzz about the place so reserve well in advance; About 16 entrees and 6 or 7 appetizers – mouthwatering descriptions on the menu; Chef Missy Robbins nails it; Check website as each location has different entrees (also Columbus Circle). Affordable for its quality. I Trulli: Italian. 122 E 27th @ Lex-Park; 23/20/$56; 481-7372; Gorgeous place; Inside fireplace; Outdoor seating in a lush garden; Sleek and inviting. Brilliant wine list; Close to an institution; Homemade past with Rabbit Ragu- yum; Brunch, lunch and dinner served; I prefer it as a lunch option in the summer; All the pastas are homemade & incredible. Pricing is fair; Superb wine list – place can be seen as a wine bar. Trattoria Alba: Italian. 233 E 34th @ 2-3rd Av; 22/18/$40; 689-3200; Neighborhood spot. Crowd is filled with regulars coming back for classic, reliable fare. Take your time service; Menu has the dishes. Villa Berulia: Italian. 107 E 34th @ Lex-Park; 23/19/$49; 689-1970; Mature, crowd; Extremely friendly and attentive service; Incredible cooking; Great for a family meal or a romantic date. Quiet & more mature. Osteria Laguna: Italian. 209 E 42nd @ 2-3rd; 23/19/$46; 557-0001; Very popular UN-area neighborhood mainstay. Solid fare, attentive service and seating outdoors. Venetian fare; Packed at lunch. Grilled Calamari, Mozz Caprese, Seared Tuna Carpaccio, 12 home-made pasta dishes to choose from; Seafood Risotto; Mixed Grilled seafood; Branzino; Lamb shank. Fabio Piccolo Fiore: Italian. 230 E 44th @ 2nd – 3rd Av; 23/21/$52; 922-0581; Solid all the way round; Great food, service, décor; Grand Central sleeper; Chef-owner that treats you like personal guest; Accommodating – will make whatever you like; You will never be rushed and the 1st class food will impress; Well spaced tables; Great website with food photos; Huge menu; Padre Figlio: Italian / Steak. 310 E 44th @ 1st-2nd Av; 22/21/$58; 286-4310; Father-son team that works hard and provides great service; Large Italian menu and also numerous delicious steaks; Lobster Ravioli stands out; Soups and appetizers are traditional standards like Mozz Caprese and Veal Meatballs; Lots of seafood such as Chilean Sea Bass, Yellowfin Tuna, sushi grade and Sole and Lobster. Exotic meats available. Nanni: Italian. 146 E 46th @ Lex-3rd Av; 24/15/$62; 697-4161; Veteran institution with unreal food; Inventive menu; Waiters with true personality. Extremely expensive but food makes you forget. Very old school Italian; Prepare for a double cheek kiss; Mozz & Tomatoes, Artichokes; About 20 different fresh pasta dishes; Endless veal and beef selections & some fish. Il Postino: Italian. 337 E 49th @ 1st-2nd Av; 23/20/$65; 688-0033; Forget the menu (and the website- there is none) and enjoy hearing the endless specials from the waiters; U.N. / older crowd; Ideal restaurant to take your parents or for a special occasion; Order the crabmeat linguini pasta if they have it that night; Authentic Italian cuisine served by Italians- great feeling coming here. Casa Lever: Italian. 390 Park Av @ 53rd; 22/25/$75; 888-2700; First up, ultra modern décor featuring Andy Warhol paintings along the walls; Chic and cool vibe; Medium sized menu but honestly – way expensive; There is a $39 Prix Fixe lunch menu; Huge, excellent wine list. Certainly a high-end scene featuring expertly prepared Milanese cuisine. Great lounge area. Il Gattopardo: Italian. 33 W 54th @ 5th-6th Av; 25/21/$64; 246-0412; MOMA crowd settles in for expensive, yet wonderfully prepared meals; How about: Smoked Mozz with Tomatoes followed by Linguini with baby clams and then the braised Ossobuco; Medium sized menu; The staff stands out as they are seemingly there to make you happy; Townhouse setting. Fiorini: Italian. 209 56th @ 2nd-3rd; 23/19/$57; 308-0830; Appetizers are to die for here featuring Grilled Octopus or Calamari and Buffalo Mozz; Large menu of main courses including epic pastas and seafood entrees; Restaurant is like a secret, not spoiled by popularity and catering to a slightly older crowd; Tables well spaced and service is gracious. Can’t go wrong experience. Bar Vetro: Italian. 222 E 58th @ 2nd-3rd; 22/17/$38; 308-0112; Undiscovered neighborhood restaurant/ wine bar; Unforgettably hospitable; Bland-ish décor; After work scene; Food wise – 3 course prix fixe for $19.99; Tons of pasts to choose from – all ~$15; Appetizers are delicious and all under $10; Wines are $8, martinis $10and beer $6; Point being – very affordable for top end pasta dishes and appetizers. Felidia: Italian. 243 58th @ 2nd-3rd Av; 26/22/$78; 758-1479; Lidia Bastianich’s NY Times 3-star rated flagship; Stunning meals and impeccable service; Pricy but worth the splurge; Limited menu but quality and presentation in each dish; Bright, happy vibe to the place; Superb wine list; 4 course tasting menu ($65) is affordable and there is a 6 course tasting menu. $29 lunch specials. Accademia di Vino: Italian. 1081 3rd Av @ 63-4th; 22/19/$51; 888-6333; Best dishes are the Carbonara, veal chop and the lamb; Welcoming new Italian restaurant; Great for dates; Wine list is strong. Small plates to large meals; Spacious location; Massive encyclopedic menu; Appetizers include Carpaccio, Tartare platters and cheese or mixed Italian meat platters. Eclectic mix of entrees with something for everyone. Campagnola: Italian. 1382 1st Av @ 73rd -74th; 24/18/$72; 861-1102; Mega old school restaurant with a classy mafia-like feel; Food is outstanding; The may have more dishes ‘off the menu’ than on; Tons of specials; Appetizers are $15-$20, Pastas $23-$25 and everything else $30+; Menu choice is huge, however. Dinner only. Alloro: Italian. 307 E 77th @ 1st-2nd Av; 24/17/$51; 535-2866; New sleeper hit in the UES. Husband-wife team churn out creative dishes in their somewhat limited menu (6 pastas, 5 main courses, 6 appetizers); Eggplant Parmesan is mouthwatering; Service is outstanding; Great cocktails and generally a wonderful experience; Everything they do serve sounds amazing. Uva: Italian. 1486 2nd Av @ 77-78th; 21/21/$40; 472-4552; Young, hip, great date spot; Affordable entrees; Great back garden for dining in warm weather; Great specials. Terrific wine bar as well. Maruzzella: Italian. 1483 1st Av @ 77-8th; 23/17/$38; 988-8877; Recent expansion improves an already good thing; Reliable & mouthwatering Italian selections with top service. Staff works hard to impress; They have a massive menu including all time favorites such as grilled calamari, Mozz di Bufala and Farfalle al Prosciutto di Parma; Everything under $20; Half portions available; Perfect for family meal; Lusardi’s: Italian. 1494 2nd Av @ 77th-78th; 24/19/$63; 249-2020; Neighborhood Italian restaurant that provides a romantic and well serviced experience; Bit of the price side but some of the dishes are amazing; Northern Italian, older crowd; Grilled Calamari, Grilled Artichokes, Buffalo Mozz, Crabmeat cocktail all excellent appetizers; 10+ pasta dishes; Whole Med sea bass, Rabbit, creative dishes. Spigolo: Italian. 1561 2nd Av @ 81st; 25/16/$55; 744-1100; Inventive food; Perfectly prepared; Owners offer personalized service and really care; Always packed & not terribly spacious; Desserts are outstanding. Firenze: Italian. 1594 2nd Av @ 82-3rd; 21/20/$44; 861-9368; Wonderful cuisine; Small place but infinitely romantic with a well decorated brick wall interior; Back garden in spring; Homey feel with great ambiance; Relaxing, date-friendly dinner; Bruschetta is memorable; Mozz so fresh; Huge menu with endless pasta, seafood and chicken/ veal options; Giant Wine list. Erminia: Italian. 250 E 83rd @ 2-3rd; 25/24/$65; 879-4284; Extremely Romantic spot; Family owned; For couples and anniversaries; Great service in a memorable setting, though slightly small in size; Ultimate date restaurant; Specialize in Seafood dishes; Homemade Mozz is excellent; Seafood soup; Genius pasta dishes; Lobster Scampi Fra Diavolo is excellent. Calamari as well. Giovanni Venti Cinque: Italian. 25 E 83rd @ 5th – Madison; 23/20/$68; 988-7300; Located right near the MET; Best deals are the $25 prix fixe lunch and the $39 prix fixe dinner which includes tons of choices; Menu filled with classics, expensively priced in general; Absolutely wonderful, gracious service; Whole wheat pasta available (not for me!); Great wine list $40-$60 a bottle on average. Italianissimo: Italian. 307 E 84th @ 1st-2nd Av; 24/20/$50; 628-8603; Although small, extremely charming and the service is wonderful. Tables close but not on top of eachother; Extensive menu featuring incredible pasta dishes and endless chicken and veal choices; Appetizers are wonderful and all the ‘classic’ Italian favorites can be found. Very cozy. Great wine list and ambiance. | |
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