Feels Like NYC

When I walked into this place, it reminded me of Balthazar or Pastis - fine, those are French restaurants and this one's Italian, but the vibe is very bistro, very upbeat, good for people watching and raucous conversation. This is the kind of place that is great for a dinner with friends - or a first date, because the energy will cut through the tension. They don't take reservations, but it doesn't take that long to get a table, and there's ample bar space to grab a glass of wine while you wait. The kitchen doesn't allow for substitutions (probably why they manage the turnover they do), but that's okay, because the menu is goooood. Heavier on pizzas and pastas than anything else, but the pastas are made fresh daily and the pizzas have a deliciously rustic thin crust. The prices are totally reasonable, and the portions are quite ample, so that will just add to the happy mood you'll be in while eating here.

Heard amazing things about their food but I have to admit I love to just sneak in for a glass of wine and chat with the bartenders. Great people watching.
OH I did have a pizza to go once...Good stuff!

no reservations

this is a pretty cool spot....kinda reminds you of a NYC dive with good food, no reservations, and an italian/english lesson in the bathroom translated to down tempo beats!

Oh shit, I love this place

OK, so this is my new face for the year. It's a low key, no reservations, 80's music playing (not sure if every night but was for the last two), Italian restaurant that makes you freak out for carbs all over again.

They have at least 17 pizzas. Thin crust and not sliced (makes you work a bit but well worth it). I've already tried three (take that you no carb diet) including spicy sausage and gorgonzola (much milder than it sounds), speck and italian creme, and the classic margarita. No lying here, I am now dreaming of pizza.

They also feature a specials menu where i sampled the Burrata Ravioli, eggplant rollatini, and the Branzino. They pride themselves on all imprted tomatos, cheeses, and oils from italy. They say it's all relatively preservative free. I dunno but I dont care. Seriously folks, I'm in love.

While they are open for lunch, I've dined at night twice in one week now. If you can't get a table (as they are busy) they turn around quickly or I recommend ponying up to the bar and chowing down there. The staff is uber friendly (in fact we went out with the bartendress and host after). Ask for Evelyn who is one of the managers, Kat the bartender, or Jon the host.

We also met Max, the owner, and he graciously gave us a grappa tasting where I found a grappa I'm sending over to Jack.

Please check this place out!!!

a little taste of italy

I went here for my birthday and the decor is super fun. I would recommend going their just for the wine, appetizers and dessert. Their pasta is very light, not heavy but needed some freshly grated cheese. I had their dark chocolate lava cake for dessert and it was heaven. They also had an amazing wine selection.