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RichardCrystal Mar 19, 2008 03:13 AM

NYC ITALIAN

I will be meeting relatives from Calif in NYC this summer. They will be at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square. I will be at the Helmsley on E. 42nd. They would like to have "authentic" NYC Italian. Can someone suggest a restaurant which will not max-out my Visa but still be pretty good? A 10 or so minute taxi ride is OK, too! THANKS!! (richard.crystal@longandfoster.com)

  1. kcijones001 Mar 25, 2008 01:17 PM

    Otto is great.
    Puttanesca is fantastic.
    Bond 45 is delish too!

    1. vvvindaloo Mar 23, 2008 08:00 PM

      Hi, Richard. I am not sure what you are looking to spend, so I will recommend the following in various price ranges PP, not including alcohol:
      1. A Voce, Madison Ave. @ 24th St. Modern upscale ambiance, among the best of current NY Italian hotspots, and very "authentic". European portions. Definitely need to make a reservation in advance. $70.
      2. Crispo, W. 14th St. More rustic, cozy feel with a lively bar scene. Classic Italian dishes in fairly large portions. A perennial favorite. I recommend you make reservation here, too, but definitely a must for weekends. $50.
      3. Trattoria Malatesta, corner of Christopher St. @ Washington St. Very casual, affordable taverna-style restaurant. Basic Italian fare, famous for their specialty, Spaghetti all Chitarra, which is inarguably their best pasta dish. Homey and a little bit crowded. Very limited wine list. No reservations, cash only. $35.

      Buon Appetito!

      1. k
        k1127 Mar 21, 2008 08:28 AM

        As an italian, I have to say I love Carmines. Although it is a little commercial, it reminds me of a big family holiday dinner. They serve family style, so its a perfect place for big parties. And the ice cream pirate ship is to die for! It is on 44th street and 8th avenue.

        1. Striver Mar 20, 2008 05:10 AM

          For solid New York Italian (as opposed to "authentic Italian Italian") at a reasonable price and just around the corner from the Marriott, I suggest Trattoria Trecolori, on W.47th between Broadway and 8th Ave. Good food, pleasant ambience (particularly if you avoid the pre-theatre hours), and the service is warm and accomodating.

          1. y
            yippee1999 Mar 19, 2008 11:58 AM

            I have a Sicilian friend that loves La Masseria, which would be about a 10-minute taxi ride....

            http://www.lamasserianyc.com/dinner.html

            When you look at menu, you have to use your mouse to go over to the right, to see the prices...

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