It’s a bold claim when any joint claims to be the “best Italian restaurant in New York.” It’s an even bolder achievement to put food on the table that just might fit that bill.
Lattanzi Restaurant offers a rich menu of traditional Italian dishes, rarer European imports and original creations. The restaurant enjoys a prime location as a stroll through Hell’s Kitchen will bring you to the warmly lit, traditional dining space in the heart of Restaurant Row and the Theater District.
Ample space managed by formally attired staff welcomes the diner for lunch, dinner or after theater meals. A complete wine menu awaits while the visitor selects from choice appetizers such as Mozzarella e Pomodoro (homemade mozzarella, tomato and onions with extra virgin olive oil and basil) and Lattanzi’s signature Carciofi alla Giudia (artichokes cooked Jewish style; sautéed with garlic and olive oil).
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Entrée choices include a proper, focused list of Italian classics, meat and seafood. I keep it traditional and recommend the Fettuccine al Ragu (homemade fettuccine with ground beef in a fresh tomato sauce) or Rotolo di Spinaci e Ricotta (homemade rolled pasta filled with ricotta cheese). I would’ve loved to see a little Osso Buco on the menu, but that might not jibe with a menu light on red meat.
Desserts include all of the Italian classics alongside New York must-haves like a traditional chesse cake. However, I recommend any of the light sorbets prepared onsite.
Finally, for anyone looking for a Kosher-friendly take on Italian cooking, Lattanzi offers a special addendum to its menu: The Cuisine of the Roman Jews. It’s a trimmed down, finely tuned version of the restaurant’s general menu with a mix of Kosher-friendly and vegetarian selections.
As for “best Italian in New York,” I suppose there would be as much debate over that as there arguments over “Best Pizza” or “Best Deli.” As for my vote, I’ve had my share of Italy’s cuisine throughout the city, and I’d have to say I’ve never had better.
