Some folks don't get this modest outpost of the Batali/Bastianich empire. First off, you have to buy into the fact that it's a New York spin on the neighborhood-oriented Roman Osteria. Next, you can best enjoy the menu when you share lots of stuff ""family style"" with a bunch of people (two couples minimum). Lastly, ignore dinner and show up for lunch promptly at noon. Take a table in the bar area and be prepared for a satisfying and inexpensive meal. Order two antipasti (affetati piccolo and frutti di mare piccolo), two primi (bucatini all' Amatriciana plus ricotta gnocchi with fennel sausage ragu) and two secondi (saltimbocca and the ""plate of the day""). Your bill will be $82 plus tax/tip. Not bad.
Pros: good food, inexpensive, creative menu
Cons: not for singles, dinner can be rushed
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