Falai or Babbo?

[TheLatestDish]

I was going to go to Falai for my one night in NY in August. But, since reading this board I am now thinking I should go to Babbo. Is one better than the other?

Also, I wanted to check out the Spotted Pig. Would that be a fun place for lunch? I was also thinking of going to Ssam Bar for lunch.

I would love to hear your opinions. Thanks in advance!

[UES Mayor]

Babbo for sure!!! Falai is great too BUT you will feel hungry after! Very small great food plates but hardly fills u up.

[progressivenewamerican]

Falai is in my opinion a much better restaurant than Babbo. The foie appetizer is amazing (split is with a few others b/c it's huge..the deep-fried one was the best in my opinion) and the pastas have a delicacy that you rarely get in New York. Babbo (although I still love Batali mostly due to his appearances on No Reservations w/ bourdain) is really over-rated--the portions are way to large and the pasta is just not much better than just making fresh pasta at home. You'll get great service and also a beautiful place to sit and eat at Falai (they also have a pretty garden in the back during the summer).

[scrittrice]

I don't think they're in different leagues, but they are apples and oranges to me. I prefer Falai, but I think most people on this board would vote for Babbo.

[Jorel]

Definitely Babbo. They are in different leagues.

[financialdistrictresident]

I have never been to Babbo, but we really enjoy Falai. I think I posted a report the last time we went if you want to do a search. Dessert is not to be missed. Portions are European size - think quality over quantity. Bread is fabulous. Small venue with a patio. Decor is very white.

[MagnumWino]

I've never been to Falai, but love Babbo.

Had lunch at Spotted Pig once fairly recently and we loved it. Good food, funky relaxed atmosphere, friendly service.

[City Kid]

I thought Falai had excellent food but the portions were so precious, we left feeling like we wanted to stop in somewhere else for dinner! Entrees were appetizer size. Factor that into the pricing.

[Lucia]

Babbo over Falai for sure.
Yes, Spotted Pig would be a good, fun option for lunch. I haven't been to Momofuku Ssam for lunch, but I believe they have a more limited menu than their dinner menu, which is very good.