CICCIO Bar & Alimentari — Restaurant in New York

My sister-in-law took my wife and I out to dinner. As a visitor to New York I had no clue where we were going, but assumed it was good. After a quick subway ride from Hell’s Kitchen to The Village we stumbled upon an unassuming door to the basement of an apartment building. You immediately walk into the bar. You are greeted by a man who is your host and server. He has a lot of energy, very friendly, and extremely knowledgeable about the menu. His personality and the music in here is needed as being below ground level it would feel very dungeon like with a lifeless staff and melancholy music.

Now for the star of the show, the food. My family chose to eat family style. This was a great idea, because we got to try so much of the menu. We had a very unique spin on lasagna, but it was great, delicious ravioli, flavorful cacio e pepe. Everything was great, but one thing stood out amongst them all and that was the meatballs. I have had many meatballs throughout my life. My neighbor growing up was from Italy. I worked for a family run Italian restaurant. These are hands down the most flavorful meatballs I’ve ever had! It is a must try!

We also had the tiramisu. It was homemade and good.

I recommend this place as a nice date night or to bring a couple visiting town. The meatballs are a must. If you are vegan or vegetarian call the restaurant ahead of time to see if they can...

Great food with minor complaints.

The food was amazing. I had the red beet ravioli and my date had the pea pasta, both were superb. My only complaint or thing that I wish I knew beforehand was how small some of the portions were. Specifically, the 5 ravioli for ~25$. I can't speak to their other dishes, for instance my date's dish was relatively large, but I'd definitely recommend getting am appetizer too or risk leaving unsatisfied. (-.25 stars)

The drinks were pretty good. Nothing to write home about BUT not much to complain about either. I had the drink "the Lila," and I was a little disappointed that it had an overwhelming taste of cucumber. My date and I agreed that the drinks were good, but a tad overpriced. (-.25 stars)

Lastly, and perhaps this is just my own experience and not representative of the restaurant, be wary about the length of your time when here. I felt mildly rushed by the waitstaff. Not like I was unwelcome, but rather like the restaurant had over booked itself/had too many reservations. Furthermore, I was surprised when the waiter actually came to our table to kick us out because they had too many reservations. I feel like an hour and a half total (including food and drink) isn't enough time to be kicked out BUT maybe I'm wrong. (-.25 stars)

In the end, solid 4.25~ stars, definitely worth...

Outstanding Italian with fresh made Pasta and abundant wine selection

I usually visit Ciccio and sit a the Bar but in this occasion I decide to seat in one of their cost tables to receive a old friend.

I began by ordering the TAGLIERE MISTO: an antipasto board of mixed curated meats and cheese that goes extremely well over some cocktails. The classic but always trendy Aperol Spritz and bold Negroni.

I also had the chance to tried a handmade Taylor cocktail made by Miguel, the Bartender on duty.

Eventually I order the signature pasta STRISCE ALLA CHAIANTIGIANA a sublime pasta made on the spot with Pecorino cheese, Guanciale meat and pork cheek meat and wine reduction. I got suggested to pair it with a RIPASSO red wine to end up being the hit of the night for me and my friend we end up ordering a bottle. You can tell this guys know how to do Italian with class.

If you ever have the need to eat and impress a friend or couple this place never disappoints.

Don't forget to try the daily fresh Focaccia bread

Give yourself the chance to get to know one of my favorite Italian in Manhathan that still makes everything fresh on the spot. You won't be...