Italian near Morgan Library (Madison & 36th)?

[RichardNYC]

We're planning to see the Morgan Library tomorrow and were looking for an Italian restaurant in the immediate area. Something nice, but where we'll be comfortable wearing short sleeve shirts and sneakers.

Google maps comes up with Ai Fiori, but the pictures make it seem like bankers who lunch, which is not quite the atmosphere I'm looking for.

[thegforceny]

Does that not appeal to you because it suggests too expensive? Or you just don't want that business feel? Because it's great food. It's close to the BofA HQ. though

Ciano isn't that far. And not particularly close to an IB headquarters. But $$$ and delicious.

[RichardNYC]

Does not appeal because it doesn't look like I'd be happy wearing a polo shirt and sneakers. Price is fine. Do you think I'd be ok at Ai Fiori so attired?

Ciano looks nice, although I would prefer something a bit closer

[RGR]

We're big fans of Ai Fiori. Since there is no dress code, it's up to you whether you will feel comfortable if others are not as casually attired. But now that I think of it, when we had dinner there several weeks ago on a Saturday night, I noticed a young man who was wearing jeans though I don't think he was wearing sneakers.

Fagiolini is on the corner of Lex & 39th. We've never been there, but I've heard good things about it. And it's certainly a more casual spot than Ai Fiori.

http://www.fagiolini.com/

http://thewizardofroz.wordress.com

[RichardNYC]

If jeans are acceptable on a Saturday night, I suppose we'll be fine for a Friday lunch.

Are we likely to need reservations?

Anything else good in the neighborhood?

[RGR]

If you were going for dinner, I'd say yes. But for lunch, I don't think it's necessary. A quick check of Open Table shows plenty of availability. Ai Fiori is a big place.

The area immediately around The Morgan does not have much in the way of great restaurants. There's a teensy French bistro, Le Parisien, on 33rd, b/t Lex & 3rd. Delicious food and charming atmosperics.

http://www.leparisiennyc.com/

http://thewizardofroz.wordpress.com