This was my first Batali experience and I must say that it was an exceptional one. The restaurant itself is on the plain side as far as decor goes but the food is anything but plain. Do not come here with non-seafood eaters as the menu is almost entirely seafood. There are many, many excellent choices from the different categories (raw, cooked, pastas, whole fishes, etc.) but the chef's selection is the way to go. For $65, you will get a 5-6 course tasting menu encompassing a variety of raw fish, cooked fish, pastas, dessert, etc. and every single course was spectacular. Throw in an excellent Italian wine list and some delicious cocktails (the pomegranite bellini and pineapple cosmo were terrific) and you have an all-around excellent meal. It is not cheap, but a good NYC dining experience usually isn't....
Pros: Fresh food, Knowledgeable waiters, Wine List
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