318905 Sat Aug 19 03:38:56 -0700 2006 2 18 Manhattan 0 1818820 we went to DA ANDREA in the west village on hudson tonight. we started with a bottle of lambrusco ($26) and a salmon cartpaccio salad. the wine was a knockout for the genre. lambrusco has a bad rap from the 70's but it is rightfully making a bit of an underground comeback and i am all for that. the salmon app was just ok, nothing memorable. we usually get the calamari and i went for something different but i would get your grilled squid on here instead. heh. for mains i had the squid ink taglitelle w/ clams and tomatos and garlic. very tasty. spouse had a lamb shank dish. not the best ever, but not bad. no coffee, no dessert. total was $72 w/o tip. i love the place. it's a consistant neighborhood italian. do not go out of your way, but don't hesitatate to go if you are in the area as DA ANDREA is still the best around. Sat Aug 19 03:38:56 -0700 2006 11372 mrnyc 1 1819055 I agree - many good pastas, house wine is a bargain, and service is gracious, warm and welcoming. Sat Aug 19 09:01:32 -0700 2006 1818820 14685 serious 1 1822213 What I really enjoy about Da Andrea is the pleasant and unpretentious service. You almost feel like you are eating at a family dinner. The pastas are some of the most fresh I have had, particularly their gnocchi, which melts in your mouth. Can't beat the price either. Mon Aug 21 16:02:12 -0700 2006 1818820 13035 bobby06877