17 Jul 2010, Posted by admin in L'Epicurien, 0 Comments
on the hunt: the traditional italian meal
Crispo
The burratta mozzarella is luscious and juicy. It is usually a special on the weekends, so be sure to inquire in advance. Other favorites include any of the house made pastas and the fried artichokes. Also, ask to sit either on the patio year-round (open in the summer and covered in the winter) and avoid being stuck at the restaurant’s entrance near the crowded bar.
40 W. 14th Street (Between 7th & 8th Avenue)
Trattoria Toscana
This open-air storefront feels right at home in its village location. The enthusiastic Italian owner makes this spot a gem. fettuccine al tartufo con funghi porcini is al-dente, not as heavy as one might expect and utter perfection. If you are missing the old country, definitely indulge in the hard-to-find tripe.
64 Carmine Street (Between Bedford and 7th Avenue South)
Supper
Though I have yet to actually set foot in this restaurant, my delivery was superb, consisting of pounded veal scallopine, lemon light risotto, and fried bananas with a vanilla dipping sauce. The owners of this venue also own Frank, detailed below.
156 E. 2nd Street (Between Avenue A and Avenue B)
Frank
One of the top spots for gnocchi and eggplant parmigiano in New York. Daily specials are usually a hit too. This typical, east village spot doesn’t accept reservations so avoid weekends.
88 2nd Avenue (Between 5th and 6th Street)
Cacio e Vino
Try the bucatini all’amatriciana in tomato sauce with pork jowl, onion and pecorino cheese or the beef carpaccio with a balsamic reduction, parmesan cheese, and braised artichokes.
80 Second Avenue (Near 4th Street)
Rao’s
It’s one of the most notorious Italian restaurants in Manhattan. Forget about getting a reservation unless you’re a close personal friend of the owner Frank Pellegrino (it’s basically an invitation only supper club.) I’m still waiting for an invitation. I’ll be sure to report back to you if I ever get into the inner sanctum.
455 E. 114th Street (Between 1st Avenue and Pleasant Avenue)
–Melissa Matarese
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