Double Date Downtown

[ceeceee]

hi all, we're setting a friend up tomorrow night on a blind date, but we'll be with them. we're looking for something either in the west or east village with a nice atmosphere, doesn't have to be overly romantic. it should be upbeat-ish, but not too too loud. of course, good food...and (aghh--last minute) we need to be able to make reservations for tomorrow night too.
any cuisine...but our faves are italian, french, spanish, new american...

[Pan]

Well, I'm reading this too late to help out with any recommendations, so where did you go, and how was it?

[ceeceee]

we went to crispo...which is always a success. everyone loved it. we split a bunch of antipasti (risotto balls, stuffed peppers, olives, mozzarella). and i got the carbonara...which really is amazing.

[Pan]

I'll have to try that place. Thanks for getting back to us with a report. :-)

[Andrew P.]

The Stanton Social may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I had an incredibly fun double date there several months ago. It's expensive-ish, but small, sharable food is inherently fun.

[bread for breakfast]

What about Mangiami on Stanton St. in the LES? Great food, friendly/casual ambience... There's also Lavagna in the East Village. It's small, but they do take reservations. I've gotten in there at the last minute! I love the intimate feel of that place...

[Lucia]

Crispo, Jane, Perilla, Enoteca Barbone, Cacio e Pepe

[outside25]

Second to Cacio de Pepe, or its sister wine bar / restaurant Cacio de Vino

[mikka]

2nd Crispo. Had a nice double date last Friday and we were able to snag a garden seat. We didn't have problems making a reservation the day before but the garden I believe is first come, first serve fyi.

[harrison]

Another Crispo vote here. Even if they don't hit it off, at least the food will be good!

I also agree w/ Lucia on Jane since there's something for everyone, good food/service/vibe, and they honor their reservations.

[jrazzle]

Crispo or Enoteca Barbone (I think it's now just called Bar-bo-ne?) are both great for Italian! Bar-bo-ne has this fantastic patio that you might be able to get. Another option in the E. Village is Mermaid Inn.

[pellegrino31]

I like Blue Ribbon a lot too. Other good places are Cornelia St. Cafe, Da Andrea and Valdino West. In the EV, I just tried Le Pere Pinard recently and it was very good.

[jmo9]

Blue Ribbon on Downey is always fab. Kin Khao is fun too if you like thai and don't mind going to spring st. Yama (sushi) on Carmine is awesome. Otto would be great for a Blind date. Still thinking...