"Neighborhood" Italian ...?

[CindyJ]

I'm almost hesitating to post this question because it's so un-specific, but here goes... I'll be visiting NYC on Sunday, probably poking around the downtown neighborhoods -- Chelsea, SoHo, the Seaport area, etc. The weather is supposed to be beautiful, so outdoor dining would be a plus. Is there an Italian place you'd recommend with great food at reasonable prices where folks just seem to be having a good time? High energy yet relaxed; a good place to enjoy the feel of your great city on a great day?

[sing me a bar]

Try Oreste on Carmine between Bedford & 7th Ave.

[CindyJ]

I've been reading some good things about Crispo. between Crispo and Buon'Amici, which would you choose? I'm soooooooo confused -- so many restaurants, so little time! The menu at Malatesta appeals to me. (Maybe I should avoid the Seaport area altogether...?) It's just supposed to be a fun day in the big city with my nutzo cousin... I'm already feeling stressed!

[calypsogirl]

definitely crispo!! the garden seating is lovely, too.

[ChefNet]

In Tribeca: Pepolino on West Broadway just below Canal St.

In West Village: Malatesta on Christopher & Washington

Both have outdoor seating, Malatesta was my favorite, but Pepolino is stealing my heart!

[financialdistrictresident]

If you are near the Seaport (you might want to do a search of this site & menupages.com for more info. on these and other non-Italian places). These places have good food (vs. "great"):

*Acqua (was Quartino), has outdooor cafe. Simple, fresh, delicious Italian fare (nothing contrived or fancy).
*Barbarini (lite, quick fresh Italian, more of a takeout place, a few tables)
*Buon ' Amici (more of a dinner place)
*Il Brigante (stick with pizza & pasta, more of a lunch place)
*Carmine's (food ok, no outdoor seating)

[financialdistrictresident]

Just remembered there is a v. popular Italian place in TriBeCa . . .a short walk from Seaport (IMO, walk West for better food) . . .can't remember the name, it's not too far from Salaam Bombay. Another CH will know the place I'm thinking of and hopefully post.