Fiamma continues to set the bar extremely high for Italian restaurants in the US. The decor straddles intimate and formal such that its a setting that will work very well for a romantic dinner or business engagement. The service is knowledgeable and attentive. The wine selection is exceptionally deep, though a bit pricey. FIAMMA IS ALL ABOUT THE FOOD. There is no Italian restaurant in NY that can compete with Michael White's cuisine. His pastas are exceptional and extremely fresh - try the various raviolis and the Stracci. The fish is very fresh and delicately prepared, and the Veal Chop is flavorful but not too large and overwhelming. The flavors are the key and they are diverse, subtle, and memorable. Importantly, Chef White does not make the mistake that so many Italian restaurants in the US do by over complicating the cuisine. Great Italian cuisine is simple, yet flavorful. Bravo!
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