NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY and CONNECTICUT
New York City
Al Di La
www.aldilatrattoria.com
248 Fifth Ave., Brooklyn (Park Slope), 718-783-4565
Anna Klinger and her husband, Emiliano Coppa, celebrate Emiliano’s hometown – Venice – at this wildly popular trattoria. Try the braised rabbit with black olives and polenta and the fat Venetian malfatti (Swiss chard gnocchi). Finish with the gelati, named best in Brooklyn by New York magazine.
Agata & Valentina Ristorante
1513 First Ave., New York, (212) 452-0691
Chef Joseph Brancaccio offers innovative interpretations of Sicilian favorites such as tagliatelle in a lemon sauce with poppy seeds and a whole roasted branzino. Be sure to sample the delicate Sicilian pastries and desserts, including unbelievably creamy house-made gelato.
Alidoro
105 Sullivan St., New York, 212-334-5179
An unassuming exterior belies this deli’s offerings--delicious, generously proportioned sandwiches. Each features Italian meats, cheeses and toppings on homemade bread. Try the rosemary focaccia with a side of the creamy Alessandro dressing.
AREO
8424 Third Ave., Brooklyn (Bay Ridge), 718-238-0079
For classic Italian in classic Brooklyn, discover this gem nestled in the “Bay Ridge strip” of bars, and restaurants. Bring your friends and, most important, your appetite. (The portions are huge.)
Aroma
36 E. 4th St., New York, 212-375-0100
Sidle up at the long wooden bar, and hosts Alexandra Degiorgio and Vito Polosa are happy to make suggestions. Or visit the subterranean Farmhouse Room with its stone walls and votive-candle lighting—and enjoy specialties such as braised duck served with a poached egg, and frisée salad.
Arte Around The Corner
www.artearoundthecorner.com
274 Columbus Ave., New York 212-875-2195
A ‘bar’ where everybody knows your name.
Actor-turned-restaurateur Guido Venitucci dreamed of opening a “typical Italian bar” since relocating to New York City in 1994. “My stepfather, a sommelier, taught me a lot about food and wine, and I love sharing that knowledge with others,” explains 41-year-old Venitucci, who has appeared in the Italian television series Classe di Ferro and the film The Royal Tenenbaums. “In Manhattan, I wanted to create a ritual—a familiar place where people know one another and exchange words—not just a place where people rush in and out for a morning cup of coffee.” When a former creperie vacated in his Upper-West-Side neighborhood, he knew it was “meant to be.” In June 2005, he personally designed Arte Around the Corner, filling the high-ceilinged space with warm colors, cozy décor and all things typical of an Italian bar: espresso made with Italian beans, house-made sandwiches and panini, Italian grocery staples and an array of mouthwatering baked goods. Arte Around the Corner is a treat that even food maven Martha Stewart can’t get enough of. (“She loves our focaccia,” says Venitucci.)
Babbo
www.babbonyc.com
110 Waverly Pl., New York, 212-777-3365
Mario Batali’s flagship serves delicious seasonal produce, Italian cheeses, meat, game and seafood, with “many unusual ingredients that will surprise and delight,” says Zagat, which calls it the “best Italian in NYC.”
Barbarini Alimentari (GROCERY)
225 Front St., New York, 212-227-8890
New York restaurant veterans Claudio Marini (Caffè Linda) and Stefano Barbagallo (Paprika) bring upscale Italian groceries to the South Street Seaport area in lower Manhattan. Also enjoy prepared foods such as fava and pecorino salad and spaghetti alla chitarra, or take out an open-faced veal tonnato sandwich to eat by the water.
Barolo
www.nybarolo.com
398 W. Broadway, New York, 212-226-1102
A large, airy hot spot in the heart of SoHo, Barolo features an antipasto assortment with creamiest mozzarella this side of the Mediterranean. The filet mignon in Barolo wine sauce is especially popular.
Bar Veloce
www.barveloce.com
176 7th Ave., New York, 212-629-5300
Exposed brick walls, rows and rows of bottles and a long unfinished wooden bar characterize this charming space, where the wine is expertly selected, reasonably priced and served by a knowledgeable staff to accompany panini and Italian-style tapas.
Bella Cucina
www.bellacucinaartfulfood.com
1293 Lexington Ave. in Grand Central Terminal,
New York, 212-289-9004
In 1993, Alisa Barry began a mission to “enhance people’s lives every day through the spirit, beauty and sustenance of artful food,” when she opened the doors of Bella Cucina, a small café in Atlanta. She has created a pantry of fine, fresh ingredients and specialty foods for her customers to enjoy at home, but her business soon became so popular that she closed her small space and launched Bella Cucina Artful Food, an award-winning product line sold nationwide. Although Barry has since been compared to the food maven Martha Stewart, she still believes in the Italian values of hand-made food, farm-grown produce and artisanal quality. Visit Barry’s new location at Grand Central to learn why Bella Cucina has twice won the prestigious “Outstanding Product Line” by the International Fancy Food Association. Don’t miss her famed artichoke lemon pesto or rich, creamy dolce di latte.
Bellavitae
www.bellavitae.com
24 Minetta Lane, New York, 212-473-5121
Owner Jon Mudder showcases imported olive oils, pastas, vegetables and vinegars (also available for purchase) at this warm, unpretentious West Village trattoria. Sample grilled figs from Calabria wrapped in strips of pancetta or try Gorgonzola drizzled with chestnut honey from Lake Como. But whatever you do, don’t miss pastas like the egg garganelli with ragù bolognese.
Beppe
www.beppenyc.com
45 E. 22nd St., New York, 212-982-8422
A large fireplace, terra cotta roof and antique wood flooring create a cozy atmosphere at chef Marc Taxiera’s ode to authentic Tuscan cooking. He even grows his own produce from imported Italian seeds. House favorites include loin of lamb wrapped in bacon with a spring pesto; risotto Ligurian style; and zuppa inglese.
Blue Apron Fine Foods (GROCERY)
www.blueapronfoods.com
814 Union St., Brooklyn (Park Slope), 718-230-3180
Chocolate tasting and cheese sampling will fill you up at this gourmet grocery, where owners Ted Matern and Alan Palmer offer high-quality Italian goods at reasonable prices.
Buon’Italia (GROCERY)
www.buonitalia.com
75 Ninth Ave., New York, NY, 212-633-9090
Buon’Italia’s doctrine is to carry only the best Italian imports. So while this Chelsea Market standout might not have the label you’re looking for among its carefully chosen selections, it always has the one you should be looking for. And if you can’t make over to Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, the website is an excellent proxy.
Borgo Antico
www.borgoanticony.com
22 E. 13th St., New York, 212-807-1313
Forbes recommends the “homemade pastas, fresh and inventive salads and the stews” at this elegant two-story Union Square restaurant.
Bottega Del Vino
www.botteganyc.com
7 E. 59th St., New York, 212-223-2724
The restaurant features a panini bar and traditional Veronese dishes prepared by executive chef Massimilliano Convertini. The wine list offers “rare vintages of everything from Opus One to Chateau d’Yquem” from New York City’s largest wine cellar, according to New York magazine.
CAFFÈ FALAI
265 Lafayette St., New York 917-338-6207
Owner Iacopo Falai’s newest venue is a bright, modern space in SoHo, featuring forty seats and an open kitchen. Everything from the baked eggs with tomato sauce to pastries and chocolate—all made in-house—is delicious.
Caffe Grazie
www.caffegrazie.com
26 E. 84th St., New York, 212-717-4407
Located a block from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a cozy townhouse, Caffe Grazie is a welcome stop for a quick lunch or relaxing dinner.
’Cesca
www.cescanyc.com
164 W. 75th St, New York, 212-787-6300
Chef Kevin Garcia serves sophisticated southern Italian comfort food at this Upper West Side hot spot, where rich baked pasta dishes and hearty meats go hand-in-hand. “The stromboli served at the bar is the best in the city,” says New York magazine. Chef Garcia recommends ordering the duck or scallops.
CRONKITE PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR
133 Norfolk St., New York 212-375-1500
This new pizzeria’s menu offers exotic toppings and chewy parmesan crusts. Citysearch raves about the truffle oil-laced spinach pizza with ricotta cheese and pine nuts, as well as the “well-appointed, reasonably priced wine list.”
Da Silvano
www.dasilvano.com
260 6th Ave., New York, 212-982-2343
“No matter how many other places open claiming to be Tuscan, few have been able to duplicate Da Silvano’s Tuscan reverence for simplicity,” says the New York Times of this legendary spot for celebrity sightings.
Dani
www.danirestaurant.com
333 Hudson St., New York 212-633-9333
Sicilian-born chef Don Pintabona returns to his culinary roots in this glamorous setting. Located in a renovated turn-of-the-century warehouse, the restaurant offers authentic Sicilian dishes accented with spices borrowed from neighboring North African and Arab cuisines. Try the bucatini with sardines, homemade ricotta and grapefruit-Campari granita.
Da Umberto
107 W. 17th St., New York, 212-989-0303
“Da Umberto’s low-key Chelsea facade belies the extraordinary Italian offerings inside,” promises New York magazine. Many of the regulars are native Italians, who enjoy pastas made on the premises, and the trademark veal chop with Cognac sauce.
Del Posto
85 10th Ave., New York, 212-497-8090
Mario Batali’s palatial new temple of Italian cooking is a sight to be seen. The New York Times praises the “first-rate ingredients and clear flavors.”
English Is Italian
www.chinagrillmanagement.com
622 3rd Ave., New York, 212-404-1700
Chef Todd English celebrates his Italian roots with family-style platters. AOL CityGuide suggests the “antipasti with artichokes, fennel and salami and the black pepper ricotta gnocchi.”
Esca
www.esca-nyc.com
402 W. 43rd St., New York, 212-564-7272
“The crudo (think Italian sashimi) is of the highest quality; pastas like spaghetti with fresh chiles, mint, and a one-pound lobster are irresistible,” says New York magazine of this ode to Italian coastal cooking.
Falai
www.falainyc.com
68 Clinton St., New York, 212-253-1960
Don’t be fooled by the modest storefront at this sleek, beautifully designed restaurant. A former Le Cirque pastry chef, owner Iacopo Falai cooks true Florentine cuisine, including award-winning gnudi (soft spinach-and-ricotta dumplings). The bread, pasta and chocolate are made in-house.
Fiamma Osteria
www.brguestrestaurants.com
206 Spring St., New York, 212-653-1932
The contemporary decor is punctuated by a glass elevator and equally modern eats. Frommer’s says the cod, dorade, and veal chop are “too good to pass up.”
FORNINO
187 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn (Williamsburg) 718-384-6004
Chef/owner Michael Ayoub’s “little oven” turns out pizza with toppings grown in Ayoub’s own garden and greenhouse or bought from local farms. From sausage to eggplant and other embellishments—everything tastes of the garden.
Frank Restaurant
www.frankrestaurant.com
88 Second Ave., New York, 212-420-0202
Owner Frank Prisinzano decorated his cozy East Village hangout with thrift store furniture and his grandmother's own kitchen table. Patrons can’t get enough of Grandma Carmela's slow-cooked ragù, Uncle Michael's medicine ball of a meatloaf, and great bruschetta al pomodoro.
Frankie’s 457 Spuntino
www.frankies457.com
457 Court St., Brooklyn, 718-403-0033
Frankies Spuntino 17 Clinton Street
www.frankiesspuntino.com
17 Clinton St., New York, 212-253-230
A paean to Italian-American cooking opened by two thirty-something chefs from Queens, this spuntino (a place to have snacks) offers mouthwatering dishes such as sausage between thick slices of focaccia with balsamic-caramelized onions.
Fresco by Scotto
www.frescobyscotto.com
34 E. 52nd St., New York, 212-935-3434
Family run, and well known for power lunches and celebrity clientele, this midtown legend serves scrumptious food in a relaxed family atmosphere.
Gennaro
665 Amsterdam Ave., New York, 212-665-5348
“The de facto Italian neighborhood joint for the entire Upper West Side. This is good, honest food, fairly priced,”says New York magazine of the hearty Tuscan fare and intimate ambience.
Giorgione
307 Spring St., New York, 212-924-1139
Giorgio DeLuca, of Dean & DeLuca fame, co-owns this popular SoHo gem, highlighted by a raw bar, coal-oven pizzas and exquisite desserts. Zagat says, “It’s getting the buzz it deserves.”
Giorgione 508
www.giorgione508.com
508 Greenwich St., New York, 212-219-2444
Jorge Neves and Giorgio DeLuca’s combination restaurant/espresso bar/market provides breakfast, lunch and dinner. The New York Times loves the “tomato soup, braised slab bacon, all the pastas, grilled lamb chops, scallops, braised faro and desserts.”
Gnocco
www.gnocco.com
337 E.10th St., New York, 212-677-1913
This hip East Village eatery specializes in mouthwatering gnocco (deep-fried dough pillows served with paper-thin slices of prosciutto di Parma and coppa). New York magazine likes the “simple and delicious pastas, first-rate salads, and satisfying entrées.”
Grifone
www.grifonenyc.com
244 E. 46th St., New York, 212-490-7275
Zagat raves about the “expertly prepared food and superior service that’s very formal yet warm” at this small, elegant, neighborhood Northern Italian restaurant.
Grotto Azzurra
www.grottaazzurrany.com
177 Mulberry St., New York, 212-925-8775
The New York Times recommends “the grilled langoustines, or the ravioli stuffed with lobster and crab, flavored with vin santo” at this former Rat Pack hangout, with indoor waterfall and antique mahogany bar.
HEIGHTS CHATEAU
www.heightschateau.com
123 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn (Brooklyn Heights) 718-330-0963
One of New York City’s finest wine shops is found in the heart of the Brooklyn Heights. The friendly staff that knows all the nuances of their thoughtful collection of vintages, so patrons receive guidance without feeling intimidated.
Il Bagatto
192 E. 2nd St., New York, 212-228-0977
For a combination of ambience, food, and overall value, this rustic East Village gem is tough to beat. Enjoy homemade pappardelle, unctuous braised meats and rich tiramisù in the stylish upstairs dining room or in the funky downstairs lounge where a DJ plays soft beats.
Il Cantinori
www.ilcantinori.com
32 E. 10th St., New York, 212-673-6044
An exquisitely prepared Tuscan menu lures Greenwich Village locals and celebrities. “The history of Italian food in America can probably be divided into pre-Il Cantinori and post-Il Cantinori.”says Forbes.
Il Corso
www.ilcorsorestaurant.com
19 W. 55th St., New York, 212-957-1500
Venetian chef Andrea Giacomoni’s delicious food has turned Il Corso into a celebrity hideaway.
Il Fornetto
www.ilfornettorestaurant.com
2902 Emmons Ave., Sheepshead Bay 718-332-8494
This Brooklyn favorite, which specializes in seafood as well as authentic Italian fare, offers romantic waterfront dining. Patrons enjoy beautiful seascapes year-round as they feast on signature dishes from the wood-burning brick oven, such as baked pasta, pizza margherita and baked whole fish.
Il Posto Accanto
190 E. 2nd St., New York, 212-228-3562
Though brothers with Il Bagatto, this enoteca dances to its own beat. Wine drinkers can select from an extensive collection of Italian reds, whites and rosatos, all of which are served with tasty panini and snacks at a communal table.
’Ino
www.cafeino.com
21 Bedford St., New York, 212-989-5769
This tiny wine bar overflows with small plates and panini, and is one of the most romantic spots in the West Village. Martha Stewart herself confirms: “It’s tiny, it’s delicious, it’s ’ino. The sandwiches here are my favorite.”
‘Inoteca
www.inotecanyc.com
98 Rivington St., New York, 212-614-0473
The hipsteratti flock to this elegant Lower-East-Side winebar for the crispy pannini, small plates, cured meats and regional cheeses. Tuck into a large wooden table, savor the truffled egg toast and choose from one of five-hundred bottles of wine.
I Tre Merli
www.nybarolo.com
463 W. Broadway, New York, 212-254-8699
This swanky former fire station has an airy, European ambiance. AOL CityGuide praises its “elegant and extensive selection of Northern Italian cuisine like seared salmon carpaccio, Chilean sea bass and homemade ricotta cheese ravioli.”
I Tre Merli Bistro
www.nybarolo.com/bistro.cfm
183 W. 10th St., New York, 212-929-2221
Citysearch calls attention to the “salami and cheese platter served with sparingly oiled focaccia, and homemade spaghetti with a fresh tomato sauce that holds its own” at this cozy, reasonably priced West Village bistro.
I Trulli
www.itrulli.com
122 E. 27th St., New York, 212-481-7372
Enjoy the fireplace in winter and the garden in summer at this charming ode to the cuisine of Puglia (the heel of Italy’s boot). The wine bar offers light bites and a choice of fifty Italian wines.
In Vino
www.invino-ny.com
215 East 4th St., New York, 212-539-1011
Owner Luigi Iasilli and wine director Keith Beavers have created a 16-table oasis where conoscenti and novices can sample nearly 200 different Italian wines, paired with an enticing selection of cheese, pastas and entrées.
Italian Wine Merchants
www.italianwinemerchant.com
108 E. 16th St., New York, 212-473-2323
Founders Sergio Esposito, Joe Bastianich and Mario Batali cater to wine collectors and enthusiasts at this wine showroom and shop, where “Portfolio Managers” advise on anything you want to know, from the newest Barolo to your own cellar’s depth, breadth and investment potential.
Lattanzi
www.lattanzinyc.com
361 W. 46th St., New York, 212-315-0980
The Lattanzi family offers traditional Jewish-Roman fare in a sprawling theatre-district brownstone with garden seating. Be sure to sample the signature appetizer, carciofi alla giudia, a trio of bronzed artichoke florets grilled in light olive oil and garlic.
Lavagna
www.lavagnanyc.com
545 E. 5th St., New York, 212-979-1005
Owner and head chef Sami Kadar hangs out at the bar in this cozy trattoria, recommending food and wine pairings. Don’t miss the crisp-crusted pizza margherita and the roasted whole fish, both cooked in the kitchen’s wood-burning oven.
Lil’ Frankie’s Pizza
19 First Ave., New York, 212-420-4900
Hip East Villagers fill this pretty trattoria to the brim on Friday and Saturday nights, sipping Italian wine and feasting on brick-oven pizza (the house specialty), as well as Italian dishes such as lasagne alla bolognese.
L’Impero
www.limpero.com
45 Tudor City Pl., New York, 212-599-5045
Executive chef Scott Conant creates one-of-a-kind Italian dishes, such as the moist- roasted Vermont capretto with spring pea, speck and potato G’rostl. The upscale Tudor City location boasts a courtyard, blue-lit bar, candelabra and an epic wine list.
Lumi
www.luminyc.com
963 Lexington Ave., New York, 212-570-2335
Husband-and-wife team Hido Holli and Lumi Hadri serve Tuscan dishes with Mediterranean touches in this Upper East Side townhouse. Fireplaces, chandeliers and warm, terra cotta walls create an elegant, yet cozy atmosphere for the well-heeled patrons.
Lupa
www.luparestaurant.com
170 Thompson St., New York, 212-982-5089
“There is really no occasion for which Lupa is not an ideal choice,” says Gourmet magazine of this Roman trattoria, where the artisanal cheese and meat plates win raves. “It’s worth waiting all day for a seat,” says Zagat.
MAMA RAO CUCINA ITALIANA
6408 11th Ave., Brooklyn (Dyker Heights) 718-745-2269
This cozy family joint in Dyker Heights, a growing Brooklyn neighborhood, boasts superb Northern Italian cuisine and impeccable service.
Mangiami
9 Stanton St., New York, 212-477-7047
Charming owner Gianfranco Costa holds court in this intimate wine bar, where the hip, loyal patrons enjoy reasonably priced vintages (from $5 to $120) and house favorites such as the spaghetti alla carbona and tagliati con rucola.
Manganaro Foods (GROCERY)
www.manganaros.com
488 Ninth Ave., New York, NY, 212-563-5331
Manganaro’s is a relic of old New York; you need to see it to believe it. The store is dark, with wooden floors, a big old-fashioned scale and sun filtering in through skylights. The Italian antipasti, meats, cheeses and coffees are as authentic as the surroundings. And don’t forget to try the huge sandwiches, famous since the 1920s.
Maremma
www.maremmanyc.com
228 West 10th St., New York 212-645-0200
Chef Cesare Casella opened Maremmato to meld “the frontier spirit” with the simple country cooking of his native Tuscany. Through a combination of cowboy-style décor, Johnny Cash records and hearty dishes such as spaghetti with lamb meatballs, he has succeeded.
Mezzaluna
www.mezzalunany.com
1295 3rd Ave., New York, 212-535-9600
“A quintessential Florentine trattoria,” says New York magazine of this bustling bistro owned by the former president of Alfa Romeo. Don’t miss the crispy Neapolitan pizzas or the fresh homemade pastas.
My Befana
www.mybefana.com
116 W. Houston St., New York, 888-623-3262
Chef Daniele Baliani serves his seasonal Mediterranean fare to stay, to go, and as part of a meal catering service. His staff prepares daily “bundles”—breakfast, lunch and dinner for one all packed together—for their subscribers, who enjoy everything from short-rib stew à la bourguignonne to pork tenderloin au poivre, plus get it delivered to their doorsteps each morning.
Naples 45
www.rapatina.com/naples45
200 Park Ave. at 45th St., New York, 212-972-7000
The fusion of a grand, bustling midtown eatery and an authentic Neopolitan pizzeria, housed in the landmark MetLife building. Despite the crowds, Naples 45 still manages to foster intimate conversations. New York magazine lauds “superb pizzas” and “satisfying antipasti, pasta, main courses.”
Nero Restaurant
www.neronyc.com
46 Gansevoort St., New York, 212-675-5224
An ample, dark and rustic space with exposed brick, wooden tables, and—a DJ. Chef Camillo Bassani serves Italian dishes with international accents: oxtail soup, ricotta dumplings, black cod with truffle sauce. Hipper than hip, this is a great date or brunch spot.
Nicola Paone
www.nicolapaone.com
207 E. 34th St., New York, 212-889-3239
Jackets are required at this elegant Murray Hill landmark. William F. Buckley Jr.—a regular patron—suggests ordering “the zucchini to begin, followed by the pompano and a small side order of fettuccine.”
Nino’s
www.ninosnyc.com
1354 1st Ave., New York, 212-988-0002
This flagship of chef/owner Nino Selimaj’s five Manhattan restaurants specializes in seafood and homemade pasta. New Yorkmagazinesuggests the grilled fish steaks, which are “hefty portions of high quality.”
Nino’s Positano
www.ninospositano.com
890 2nd Ave., New York, 212-355-5540
Diners are treated to Southern Italian food that is “generous and consistently tasty,” applauds New Yorkmagazine. Enjoy the restaurant’s seafood specialties such as the lobster for two or grilled prawns.
Nino’s Tuscany
www.ninostuscany.com
117 W. 58th St., New York, 212-757-8630
Located in Manhattan’s theatre district, this Tuscan restaurant serves rustic cuisine, such as slow-braised veal shank and the coniglio del giorno (rabbit of the day). “From the menu to the music, there’s nothing newfangled here, just the classics,” says New Yorkmagazine.
Noodle Pudding
38 Henry St., Brooklyn (Brooklyn Heights), 718-625-3737
“Noodle Pudding prepares some of the best Italian food in the city,” says New York magazine of this neighborhood treasure, where couples and families alike enjoy dishes such as country pâté, cold prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, osso buco, mushroom risotto and, of course, great pastas. Daily specials are pure culinary magic.
Osso Buco
www.ossobuco2go.com
1662 3rd Ave., New York, 212-426-5422
www.ossobuco.citysearch.com
88 University Pl., New York, 212-645-4525
The family-style menu is perfect for groups, and the namesake dish will not disappoint: The “moist veal separates effortlessly from the shank and sits atop a hefty serving of fettuccine,” raves New York magazine.
Otto Enoteca and Pizzeria
www.ottopizzeria.com
One 5th Ave., New York, 212-995-9559
Mario Batali’s enoteca/pizzeria hot spot also serves inventive antipasti and entrees. The New York Observer calls it “lively, noisy and fun” and highly recommends the gelato. Have a glass of wine at the bar, which is modeled after an Italian train station.
Pala
www.pala-ny.com
198 Allen St., New York, 212-614-7252
At this Roman-style pizzeria, the light, crispy pies are sold by the foot or by the slice, and topped with deliciously offbeat combinations, such as pumpkin and pancetta with Scamorza cheese, and smoked cod with hummus and mint.
PANINI SPORTIVO
www.paninosportivo.com
1231 Amsterdam Ave., New York 212-622-2066
26 Prince St., New York 212-431-0800
This authentic paninoteca doubles as a meeting place where people can watch, discuss and cheer for their favorite soccer teams. Organic ingredients enhance a creative menu of panini, and match-weary fans can enjoy the full espresso bar.
Pasanella and Son Vintners
www.pasanellaandson.com
115 South St., New York, 212-233-8383
This elegant wine shop boasts a chic, “antique aesthetic,” “user-friendly food-pairing suggestions,” and “a friendly staff,” says New York magazine.
Perbacco
234 E. 4th St., New York, 212-253-2038
This cozy East Village osteria features dishes from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. The young Modenese owners create a charming and festive atmosphere with their creative menu that invites lots of tasting.
Per Lei
1347 Second Ave., New York, 212-439-9200
A festive atmosphere with a downtown feel, despite the Upper East Side location. The kitchen, run by two chefs transplanted from Milan, serves classic and modern Italian dishes, such as carpaccio and panzanella, and potato-crusted branzino with red-onion marmalade.
Red, White And Bubbly
www.redwhiteandbubbly.com
211 Fifth Ave., Brooklyn (Park Slope), 718-636-9463
Owner Darrin Siegfried wants you to find the perfect wine, and it shows in the thoughtful reviews he writes for each vintage at this elegant shop. “You'd expect heftier price tags on the wine and spirits lined proudly on cherry wood shelves like someone’s private vino library,” says Citysearch.
San Domenico
www.restaurant.com/sandomenicony
240 Central Park South, New York, 212-265-5959
“We treasure it for the luxurious space at and between tables, the clockwork service, and the refinement of the risottos, pastas, fish, and game,” says New York magazine of restaurateur Tony May’s crown jewel.
Scalinatella
201 E. 61st St., New York, 212-207-8280
Patrons enjoy VIP treatment at this cavernous Upper East Side trattoria where charming waiters toss pastas tableside and recite never-ending lists of specials such as grilled balsamic-garlic scotta dita lamb and tender veal chops drenched in porcini.
Serafina
www.serafinarestaurant.com
29 E. 61st St., New York, 212-702-9898
Serafina Broadway
210 W. 55th St., New York, 212-315-1700
Serafina Fabulous Pizza
1022 Madison Ave., New York, 212-734-2676
Serafina Osteria
38 E. 58th St., New York, 212-832-8888
Serafina Lafayette
399 Lafayette St., New York, 212-995-9595
New York magazine praises the “delectable thin-crust pizzas, stellar pastas, and inventive salads” at this wildly popular group of restaurants. As Eatsblog.com says, “Serafina is one of the gorgeous restaurants where many fashion and film people come to wine and dine.”
Spigolo
1561 Second Ave., New York, 212-744-1100
Husband-and-wife time Heather and Scott Fratangelo run this delightful trattoria. Scott creates the dinner menu—including a heavenly sheep’s ricotta gnocchi and a roasted cod with braised artichokes—and Heather creates some of the best Italian pastries in the city.
Una Pizza Napoletana
www.unapizza.com
349 E. 12th St., New York, 212-477-9950
This East Village specialist has a zealot’s devotion to serving authentic Neopolitan pizza, from its rare wood-burning ovens (which get hotter than the gas ovens most pizzerias use) to their imported Italian tomatoes, flour and cheese.
Union Square Wines & Spirits
www.unionsquarewines.com
140 Fourth Ave., New York, 212-675-8100
USW is now at a new 6,300-square-foot location that looks like a wine library. The store’s Enomatic machines hold 48 open bottles, and dispense 15-milliliter sips with each swipe of your complimentary “Savvy Sipper’s Card.” And if you prefer people to machines, wine director Jesse Salazar is charming and his advice is invaluable.
Vico Ristorante
1302 Madison Ave., New York, 212-876-4160
Upper Eastsiders flock to Vico for its scrumptious, lightly fried zucchini, warm shrimp and white bean salad and the tastiest bread basket in town. The welcoming staff helps create a cozy atmosphere.
Other Cities
www.lanternausa.com
Lanterna Tuscan Bistro
3 S. Broadway, Nyack, 845-353-8361,
“Fantastic rustic dishes with really big, complex flavors emerge from the kitchen,” Zagat says of Lucca native Rossano Giannini’s Tuscan bistro.
Posa Posa
www.posaposa.com
121 Rockland Center, Route 59, Nanuet, 845-623-7050
Delicious and reasonably priced pizza is a mainstay of this casual eatery. The Journal News predicts that Posa Posa is a “pizzeria on its way to legendary status.”
New Jersey
LuNello
www.lunello.com
331 Union Blvd., Totowa, 973-790-1410
In his more than 25 years of experience, chef/owner Louis Seger has mastered the key ingredients to this restaurant’s success: elegant ambience, a tactful wait-staff and classic dishes that stand second to none.
Hartford
Casa Mia
www.tomad.net
381 Franklin Ave., Hartford, 860-296-3441
Family-owned and -operated since 1985, Casa Mia’s elegant ambience, friendly staff and authentic Italian cuisine make it one of Connecticut’s most acclaimed restaurants. Don’t miss the cioppino--a popular fish stew made from mussels, calamari, scallops, and lobster.
ADSPRESSO
www.adspresso.com
540 Enfield St., Enfield (West Hartford), 860-741-7375
Patrons of this part café, part Italian market stop by for gourmet espresso and pastries and exquisite Italian imports: pastas and breads, sauces, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, jams and assorted antipasti.
