17 Best italian restaurants in Upper West Side New York City
In the heart of NYC, Italian cuisine shines in Upper West Side. Experience a taste of Italy with a variety of Italian restaurants, each offering authentic and delectable dishes. From classic pasta dishes to hand-tossed pizzas, these establishments bring a genuine Italian trattoria atmosphere to the urban landscape. Come indulge in the passion and flavors of Italian restaurants in Upper West Side NYC.
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- 1. Carmine's Italian Restaurant - Upper West Side
- 2. Osteria Cotta
- 3. Celeste
- 4. Pappardella
- 5. Bella Luna Restaurant
- 6. Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side
- 7. Bellini
- 8. Gennaro Restaurant
- 9. Fumo Upper West Side
- 10. Salumeria Rosi
- 11. Pomodoro Rosso
- 12. Cafe Fiorello
- 13. Polpette 71
- 14. Arte Cafe
- 15. Serafina
- 16. Tartina
- 17. Parm Upper West Side
1. Carmine's Italian Restaurant - Upper West Side
Perfect for large groups and family gatherings
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Carmine's is a fantastic family-style restaurant, perfect for large groups. The food served here is delicious, with huge portions that ensure everyone leaves satisfied. The menu features classic Italian-American dishes, all prepared with the freshest ingredients and cooked to perfection. The restaurant's reputation for excellent food is well-deserved, and diners can expect to enjoy dishes that are full of flavor and generously portioned.
In addition to the delicious food, Carmine's is also known for its exceptional service. The staff is friendly and welcoming, ensuring that every guest feels at home. They are also incredibly efficient, making it an excellent choice for large groups who need to be served in a timely manner. The professionalism of the staff, combined with the delicious food and cozy atmosphere, makes Carmine's an ideal destination for families and groups of friends looking for a great meal out.
Carmine's is a fantastic family-style restaurant, perfect for large groups. The food served here is delicious, with huge portions that ensure everyone leaves satisfied. The menu features classic Italian-American dishes, all prepared with the freshest ingredients and cooked to perfection. The restaurant's reputation for excellent food is well-deserved, and diners can expect to enjoy dishes that are full of flavor and generously portioned.
In addition to the delicious food, Carmine's is also known for its exceptional service. The staff is friendly and welcoming, ensuring that every guest feels at home. They are also incredibly efficient, making it an excellent choice for large groups who need to be served in a timely manner. The professionalism of the staff, combined with the delicious food and cozy atmosphere, makes Carmine's an ideal destination for families and groups of friends looking for a great meal out.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
2. Osteria Cotta
Rustic Italian charm with a vibrant outdoor patio.
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The pasta dishes at Osteria Cotta have been met with differing opinions, as some guests have raved about the pasta's excellent cooking and delightful taste, while others have expressed disappointment, claiming it to be the poorest they've ever had.
In general, the excitement surrounding Osteria Cotta's opening was not misplaced. Despite the limited seating, the restaurant's ambiance is cozy and pleasant, thanks to carefully chosen lighting and design elements that create a welcoming atmosphere.
The pasta dishes at Osteria Cotta have been met with differing opinions, as some guests have raved about the pasta's excellent cooking and delightful taste, while others have expressed disappointment, claiming it to be the poorest they've ever had.
In general, the excitement surrounding Osteria Cotta's opening was not misplaced. Despite the limited seating, the restaurant's ambiance is cozy and pleasant, thanks to carefully chosen lighting and design elements that create a welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Celeste
Satisfying Neapolitan fare with a neighborhood charm
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Neapolitan pizza is a culinary delight that should not be missed. Its crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and robust flavor make it a standout. The toppings are carefully selected and bursting with freshness, adding to the overall enjoyment of each bite.
This establishment also offers an impressive selection of pasta dishes that are sure to satisfy. Each dish is crafted with authentic Italian ingredients and techniques, resulting in a robust and delicious flavor. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for indulging in these culinary masterpieces. Whether you're in the mood for pizza or pasta, this restaurant is sure to impress.
Neapolitan pizza is a culinary delight that should not be missed. Its crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and robust flavor make it a standout. The toppings are carefully selected and bursting with freshness, adding to the overall enjoyment of each bite.
This establishment also offers an impressive selection of pasta dishes that are sure to satisfy. Each dish is crafted with authentic Italian ingredients and techniques, resulting in a robust and delicious flavor. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for indulging in these culinary masterpieces. Whether you're in the mood for pizza or pasta, this restaurant is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Pappardella
Experience the flavors of Tuscany in the heart of NYC.
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Nestled near the natural history museum, Pappardella restaurant is a true gem. Its atmosphere stands out with great service and a family-friendly ambiance. The food is exceptional, offering delicious Italian dishes that can compete with the best establishments in the country. The restaurant has a long history, being established in 1
Nestled near the natural history museum, Pappardella restaurant is a true gem. Its atmosphere stands out with great service and a family-friendly ambiance. The food is exceptional, offering delicious Italian dishes that can compete with the best establishments in the country. The restaurant has a long history, being established in 1
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
5. Bella Luna Restaurant
Your Italian sanctuary on the Upper West Side.
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This establishment is truly a gem, with reservations being a wise choice to avoid any potential wait times. The staff is commendably friendly and welcoming, providing detailed descriptions of the dishes that match the orders exactly. Even those seated at the bar receive excellent service. The dishes are modestly sized, suitable for sharing if one prefers smaller portions. This reviewer looks forward to returning.
The reviewer's pizza, a prosciutto variety, featured a thin and delightful crust. An accompanying beverage added to the enjoyment of the meal. A friend's dish, eggplant parmigiana, was highly recommended and compared favorably to a family recipe, despite the reviewer's personal dislike of aubergine. Thus, this establishment is heartily endorsed as a top-notch Italian restaurant for casual dining.
This establishment is truly a gem, with reservations being a wise choice to avoid any potential wait times. The staff is commendably friendly and welcoming, providing detailed descriptions of the dishes that match the orders exactly. Even those seated at the bar receive excellent service. The dishes are modestly sized, suitable for sharing if one prefers smaller portions. This reviewer looks forward to returning.
The reviewer's pizza, a prosciutto variety, featured a thin and delightful crust. An accompanying beverage added to the enjoyment of the meal. A friend's dish, eggplant parmigiana, was highly recommended and compared favorably to a family recipe, despite the reviewer's personal dislike of aubergine. Thus, this establishment is heartily endorsed as a top-notch Italian restaurant for casual dining.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
6. Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side
Artisanal Italian dining from breakfast to dinner.
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Tarallucci is an exceptional Italian restaurant that offers authentic flavors and dishes made with great care. The restaurant is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff who are dedicated to providing excellent service. In the evening, patrons can enjoy a variety of cocktails, adding to the overall dining experience.
The menu at Tarallucci features delicious dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From handmade pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality. The wine selection is also impressive, with a variety of Italian wines to complement any meal. Overall, Tarallucci is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a taste of genuine Italian cuisine.
Tarallucci is an exceptional Italian restaurant that offers authentic flavors and dishes made with great care. The restaurant is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff who are dedicated to providing excellent service. In the evening, patrons can enjoy a variety of cocktails, adding to the overall dining experience.
The menu at Tarallucci features delicious dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From handmade pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality. The wine selection is also impressive, with a variety of Italian wines to complement any meal. Overall, Tarallucci is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a taste of genuine Italian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
7. Bellini
Authentic Italian dining experience with a modern twist.
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Sisters visiting New York City during Christmas time decided to try Bellini restaurant based on online research. Upon arrival, the staff was commendably friendly, quickly seating them and providing excellent service. The Italian food served was arguably the best the sisters had ever tasted, including especially delicious Brussels sprouts and chicken parmigiana. The restaurant is highly recommended for its flavorful and reasonably priced meals.
Bellini's pasta is a must-try, as every serving is homemade, with both arrabiata and vodka sauces being top-notch. The owner is exceptionally kind and frequently checks on diners. To finish off the meal, order the chocolate soufflé, a heavenly dessert. Despite being a small and intimate restaurant, it deserves more recognition. Overall, Bellini offers delicious, reasonably priced, and memorable dining experiences.
Sisters visiting New York City during Christmas time decided to try Bellini restaurant based on online research. Upon arrival, the staff was commendably friendly, quickly seating them and providing excellent service. The Italian food served was arguably the best the sisters had ever tasted, including especially delicious Brussels sprouts and chicken parmigiana. The restaurant is highly recommended for its flavorful and reasonably priced meals.
Bellini's pasta is a must-try, as every serving is homemade, with both arrabiata and vodka sauces being top-notch. The owner is exceptionally kind and frequently checks on diners. To finish off the meal, order the chocolate soufflé, a heavenly dessert. Despite being a small and intimate restaurant, it deserves more recognition. Overall, Bellini offers delicious, reasonably priced, and memorable dining experiences.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Gennaro Restaurant
Classic Italian dining experience with a Mediterranean touch.
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The culinary experience at this establishment is nothing short of remarkable, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine that is sure to delight. Particularly noteworthy are the pasta dishes, which are crafted with care and attention to detail. Diners can choose from a variety of options, each reasonably priced considering the quality of ingredients and preparation.
The service is also a standout feature of this restaurant. Waitstaff are prompt and efficient, ensuring that guests are well taken care of throughout their meal. Their friendly demeanor adds to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. While the scallops special received some criticism for being over-salted, the sausage dish was highly praised. The flavors in each dish are well-balanced, with the pasta cooked to al dente perfection. Overall, this establishment is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious, authentic Italian cuisine.
The culinary experience at this establishment is nothing short of remarkable, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine that is sure to delight. Particularly noteworthy are the pasta dishes, which are crafted with care and attention to detail. Diners can choose from a variety of options, each reasonably priced considering the quality of ingredients and preparation.
The service is also a standout feature of this restaurant. Waitstaff are prompt and efficient, ensuring that guests are well taken care of throughout their meal. Their friendly demeanor adds to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. While the scallops special received some criticism for being over-salted, the sausage dish was highly praised. The flavors in each dish are well-balanced, with the pasta cooked to al dente perfection. Overall, this establishment is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious, authentic Italian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
9. Fumo Upper West Side
Quality Italian food in a lively setting
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The culinary experience provided by this establishment is truly remarkable. From the first bite to the last, each dish is a symphony of flavors that delights the palate. The ingredients are always fresh and expertly prepared, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and memorable.
This establishment has established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking delicious food and reliable service. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Neighborhood residents and visitors alike flock to this restaurant, knowing they will be treated to a meal that is not only delicious but also prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether it's a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, this restaurant is sure to impress.
The culinary experience provided by this establishment is truly remarkable. From the first bite to the last, each dish is a symphony of flavors that delights the palate. The ingredients are always fresh and expertly prepared, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and memorable.
This establishment has established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking delicious food and reliable service. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Neighborhood residents and visitors alike flock to this restaurant, knowing they will be treated to a meal that is not only delicious but also prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether it's a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, this restaurant is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
10. Salumeria Rosi
Bringing Northern Italy's flavors to the Upper West Side.
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Salumeria Rosi is a delightful Italian restaurant, ideal for those seeking high-quality charcuterie and authentic Italian dishes. The establishment's young owner, Andrew Lascalzo, provides a warm welcome, ensuring that every guest feels at home. The cases are filled with fresh and original products, while the plates served to other patrons are true works of art.
Salumeria Rosi offers a cozy atmosphere on the upper west side, complete with a friendly host and attentive staff. The charcuterie selection is a must-try, and the wine list, while not extensive, features precise choices to accompany your meal. The menu boasts classic Italian dishes, prepared with care and served in appropriate portions. While the options may not be overwhelming, they are consistently delicious and true to Italian culinary traditions.
Salumeria Rosi is a delightful Italian restaurant, ideal for those seeking high-quality charcuterie and authentic Italian dishes. The establishment's young owner, Andrew Lascalzo, provides a warm welcome, ensuring that every guest feels at home. The cases are filled with fresh and original products, while the plates served to other patrons are true works of art.
Salumeria Rosi offers a cozy atmosphere on the upper west side, complete with a friendly host and attentive staff. The charcuterie selection is a must-try, and the wine list, while not extensive, features precise choices to accompany your meal. The menu boasts classic Italian dishes, prepared with care and served in appropriate portions. While the options may not be overwhelming, they are consistently delicious and true to Italian culinary traditions.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
11. Pomodoro Rosso
Authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of NYC.
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Pomodoro, located on 229 Columbus Avenue, is a reliable choice for a satisfying Italian dinner. This establishment is highly regarded by locals in the Upper West Side, having garnered a dedicated following due to its exquisite Italian classics and exceptional service.
The specials at Pomodoro are always intriguing, offering a wide variety of options to suit different tastes. The prices are reasonable, and the fresh pastas are a delightful treat. Whether you're in the mood for a classic dish or something a bit more adventurous, Pomodoro is sure to deliver a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
Pomodoro, located on 229 Columbus Avenue, is a reliable choice for a satisfying Italian dinner. This establishment is highly regarded by locals in the Upper West Side, having garnered a dedicated following due to its exquisite Italian classics and exceptional service.
The specials at Pomodoro are always intriguing, offering a wide variety of options to suit different tastes. The prices are reasonable, and the fresh pastas are a delightful treat. Whether you're in the mood for a classic dish or something a bit more adventurous, Pomodoro is sure to deliver a delicious and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Cafe Fiorello
Perfect for pre-theater dining with a vast antipasto bar.
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Fiorello, a popular restaurant, is known for its exceptional service, which consistently earns high praise from customers. Diners often commend the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff, contributing to a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. However, some customers have noted that service can slow down during busy hours, which may affect the overall dining experience. Despite this occasional downside, Fiorello's commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of its offerings continue to earn it a positive reputation.
A highlight of Fiorello is the antipasto bar, rarely leaving customers disappointed. The well-stocked and thoughtfully curated selection caters to various tastes and preferences. Additionally, the impeccable service ensures a seamless and delightful dining experience. One can expect attentive and cordial staff at Fiorello, always ready to cater to any request or need, elevating the establishment's reputation even further. In conclusion, the exceptional service and enticing antipasto bar make Fiorello a go-to dining destination.
Fiorello, a popular restaurant, is known for its exceptional service, which consistently earns high praise from customers. Diners often commend the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff, contributing to a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. However, some customers have noted that service can slow down during busy hours, which may affect the overall dining experience. Despite this occasional downside, Fiorello's commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of its offerings continue to earn it a positive reputation.
A highlight of Fiorello is the antipasto bar, rarely leaving customers disappointed. The well-stocked and thoughtfully curated selection caters to various tastes and preferences. Additionally, the impeccable service ensures a seamless and delightful dining experience. One can expect attentive and cordial staff at Fiorello, always ready to cater to any request or need, elevating the establishment's reputation even further. In conclusion, the exceptional service and enticing antipasto bar make Fiorello a go-to dining destination.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
13. Polpette 71
Voted Number 1 Meatball in ALL of NYC!
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Polpette 71, located on the upper west side, offers an exceptional Italian dining experience. Known for their delectable meatballs, this establishment has perfected the dish with its tender and soft texture, complemented by a rich yet sweet sauce. In a neighborhood saturated with Italian restaurants, Polpette 71 stands out for its high-quality offerings.
Among the popular dishes are the Fettuccine Carbonara and Penne Nonna, which consistently receive rave reviews. The Fettuccine Carbonara features a savory mix of cheese, eggs, and bacon that harmonize well, creating an indulgent and satisfying meal. The Penne Nonna, meanwhile, captures the essence of classic Italian cuisine with its tangy and creamy tomato sauce, making it a worthwhile choice. Overall, Polpette 71 is an excellent destination for those in search of delectable Italian fare.
Polpette 71, located on the upper west side, offers an exceptional Italian dining experience. Known for their delectable meatballs, this establishment has perfected the dish with its tender and soft texture, complemented by a rich yet sweet sauce. In a neighborhood saturated with Italian restaurants, Polpette 71 stands out for its high-quality offerings.
Among the popular dishes are the Fettuccine Carbonara and Penne Nonna, which consistently receive rave reviews. The Fettuccine Carbonara features a savory mix of cheese, eggs, and bacon that harmonize well, creating an indulgent and satisfying meal. The Penne Nonna, meanwhile, captures the essence of classic Italian cuisine with its tangy and creamy tomato sauce, making it a worthwhile choice. Overall, Polpette 71 is an excellent destination for those in search of delectable Italian fare.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
14. Arte Cafe
Steps from Central Park, offering gourmet desserts
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The pasta served at this establishment is homemade, with many reviewers praising its consistent quality. However, a few individuals have noted a clumpy texture in their dishes.
In terms of service, opinions are mixed. Some patrons have described it as slow, but generally good, with staff who are attentive and accommodating. Others, unfortunately, have had negative experiences, characterizing the service as terrible and borderline horrible, citing issues such as attitude and excessive slowness.
The pasta served at this establishment is homemade, with many reviewers praising its consistent quality. However, a few individuals have noted a clumpy texture in their dishes.
In terms of service, opinions are mixed. Some patrons have described it as slow, but generally good, with staff who are attentive and accommodating. Others, unfortunately, have had negative experiences, characterizing the service as terrible and borderline horrible, citing issues such as attitude and excessive slowness.
15. Serafina
Creative twist on simple, original Italian dishes.
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The drinks offered at this establishment are sure to please. The white and red wines are both highly rated by patrons and complement the menu selections well. They are consistently served fresh and have a delightful taste that is sure to enhance any dining experience.
The food at this establishment is truly impressive. The chicken parmigiana is a standout dish, with a savory sauce that has won over many customers. The carbonara is another excellent choice, cooked to perfection with an authentic and satisfying sauce. Whether you're in the mood for pasta or something else, this restaurant is sure to have an option that will tantalize your taste buds.
The drinks offered at this establishment are sure to please. The white and red wines are both highly rated by patrons and complement the menu selections well. They are consistently served fresh and have a delightful taste that is sure to enhance any dining experience.
The food at this establishment is truly impressive. The chicken parmigiana is a standout dish, with a savory sauce that has won over many customers. The carbonara is another excellent choice, cooked to perfection with an authentic and satisfying sauce. Whether you're in the mood for pasta or something else, this restaurant is sure to have an option that will tantalize your taste buds.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
16. Tartina
Modern Italian dining with a chef-driven menu and all-Italian wine list.
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The service at this establishment is nothing short of exceptional. The staff members are friendly, attentive, and go above and beyond to ensure a pleasurable dining experience. They are attentive to detail, providing helpful assistance throughout the meal.
This establishment offers a charming outdoor seating area, situated away from Amsterdam Avenue and its exhaust fumes, providing a refreshing al fresco dining experience. The appetizers, including the Partenope with charred octopus and Verdure Miste with bufala mozzarella and mixed veggies, were delightful. The Melograno Salad was also a hit. For the main course, the Nerano Spaghetti, Tubettoni, and Ravioli Caprese, all served in generous portions, were equally satisfying. Each dish was skillfully prepared and delicious.
The service at this establishment is nothing short of exceptional. The staff members are friendly, attentive, and go above and beyond to ensure a pleasurable dining experience. They are attentive to detail, providing helpful assistance throughout the meal.
This establishment offers a charming outdoor seating area, situated away from Amsterdam Avenue and its exhaust fumes, providing a refreshing al fresco dining experience. The appetizers, including the Partenope with charred octopus and Verdure Miste with bufala mozzarella and mixed veggies, were delightful. The Melograno Salad was also a hit. For the main course, the Nerano Spaghetti, Tubettoni, and Ravioli Caprese, all served in generous portions, were equally satisfying. Each dish was skillfully prepared and delicious.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
17. Parm Upper West Side
Iconic Italian-American soul food in a fun, casual setting
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The rigatoni pasta stood out with its exquisite taste and perfect cooking. Each piece was coated with a rich and flavorful sauce that had a delightful consistency. The fried calamari, while good, did not quite reach the same heights as the rigatoni. It was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, but lacked a certain wow factor in terms of seasoning.
The star of the meal, however, was the signature vodka penne dish. The pasta was cooked to perfection, while the sauce had a beautiful balance of richness and tanginess. The generous amount of vodka used added a nice depth of flavor, elevating the dish to something truly special. The accompanying Cesar salad, while not bad, was perhaps the weakest link of the meal, as it could have used a bit more dressing and a bit less lettuce to really shine.
The rigatoni pasta stood out with its exquisite taste and perfect cooking. Each piece was coated with a rich and flavorful sauce that had a delightful consistency. The fried calamari, while good, did not quite reach the same heights as the rigatoni. It was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, but lacked a certain wow factor in terms of seasoning.
The star of the meal, however, was the signature vodka penne dish. The pasta was cooked to perfection, while the sauce had a beautiful balance of richness and tanginess. The generous amount of vodka used added a nice depth of flavor, elevating the dish to something truly special. The accompanying Cesar salad, while not bad, was perhaps the weakest link of the meal, as it could have used a bit more dressing and a bit less lettuce to really shine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner