Dinner tonight: Union Square/Gramercy Area, picky parents that like good food... help!

[jdream]

The title about sums it up. I'm going for dinner tonight with my parents, they want something on the East side. They say they eat anything but in reality, they don't. :) So I'm looking for something that's not too out there (maybe Italian, American, Spanish, Mexican; not Indian, Ethiopian or anything too adventurous). They do know and love good food though and are vocal when they don't like something. So I'm looking for really solid food, pretty atmosphere and not TOO pricey-- no Gramercy Tavern, Craft, Union Sq Cafe, etc. Thinking entrees 20-30...

[jdream]

thanks for all the suggestions-- i'll definitely keep this list close by when attempting to find a place for them.. thanks!

[Lucia]

Giorgio's of Gramercy

[redbecca]

You might want to try Crispo on 14th street.It's huge so you could probably get a table, and the prices are not too steep. their menu: http://www.crisporestaurant.com/menus...

[roze]

My parents have loved their meal at Giorgios of Gramercy and also enjoyed MetroCafe & Wine Bar.

[kam0424]

def via emilia

[melon]

How about North Square?
http://www.northsquareny.com/menu-din...

[Caillerets]

Great choice. So underappreciated and living below the radar.

[beck]

Via Emilia is great. I also love Casa Mono on Irving and Giorgio on 17th is perfectly good.

[kesues]

How about Urena.... I think the food is excellent, not too out there and falls in your price range

[katescoot]

I've eaten at Metro Cafe & Wine bar a few times- they have a pretty decent menu- steak, mac & chese, some pastas- not bad, prices good. I think its on 20th near park

[princeofpork]

Try Candela on 16th and Irving. Very solid American fare, nice atmosphere and reasonable prices. My parents love it.

[jdream]

Thanks for the suggestion-- but it closed a couple months ago. Any other ideas? Thoughts on Pizza Fresca or Via Emilia?

[LeahBaila]

Candela closed :(