Next best Italian after Babbo...

[sing me a bar]

I have friends coming to NY who, like myself, have no interest in guanciale, lamb's tongue, pig's feet, tripe or other organ meats. I told them the branzino is great, but they want someplace with a wider field of non-organ foods! I suggested Lupa, but have to admit their menu is awfully rich.I found one thing I could eat there. None of us are big beef or pork fans. I wouldn't go to Esca on a bet, given reports I've heard and read here. So...where does one go for amazing non-Mario Italian? It's for a birthday, so my normal hole-in-the-wall joints won't do. I guess I'm seeking lighter fare...

[Sean Dell]

What about Al di La, in Brookyn? Pretty special if you ask me.

For Italian American, nothing beats Manducati on Jackson Avenue. Er, if you ask me.

- Sean

[bobby06877]

I would strongly second Crispo, great food and a fun vibe. Their pastas are amazing. Don't miss their carbonnara and zeppole for dessert.

[ines]

Aurora in Brooklyn!!!

[Gordognyc]

My favorite upscale northern Italian is Da Umberto on 17th and 6th.

[maxine]

For northern Italian I like both Crispo (in the West Village) and I Coppi (in the east). I also like Abbocatto in the theater district for their raw seafood appitiser. But I do like Esca (I havn't read those negative reports).

[sing me a bar]

I had a great meal at I Coppi and the back garden is a very unique spot. That may be a great call, since ambiance matters. They have a great earthen oven and some of the starters we had were from it and were very good.