Craving a taste of Italian sunshine without hopping on a plane? Look no further than Osteria Barocca, a hidden gem nestled on Mulberry Street. Stepping inside is like entering a charming Sicilian villa, with warm lanterns casting a glow on cozy chatter and the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs.
The menu is a love letter to seasonal ingredients, crafted into dishes that sing with authentic flavors. But for those seeking a slice of Italian simplicity, Osteria Barocca also boasts a selection of pizzas that are pure perfection.
The Pizza Margherita is a true testament to the power of quality ingredients. Fresh-made dough with a perfectly crispy crust forms the canvas for a vibrant symphony of flavors. Sun-ripened tomato sauce dances with creamy mozzarella, each bite a delightful ode to this classic Italian staple.
For the cheese lovers, the Pizza Quattro Formaggi is a must-try. This four-cheese masterpiece brings together a quartet of creamy mozzarella, tangy goat cheese, robust gorgonzola, and sharp Parmigiano Reggiano. Each mouthful is a delightful journey of textures and tastes, a celebration of pure cheesy goodness.
Beyond the pizzas, the main course selections beckon with their tempting aroma. We couldn't resist the classic Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, and boy, are we glad we didn't! The al dente spaghetti danced with a vibrant sauce bursting with salty olives, sun-ripened tomatoes, and a secret blend of herbs. Each bite was a delightful dance of tangy acidity and savory depth, a true testament to the dish's classic appeal.
And speaking of simple perfection, the Chicken alla Marsala was a revelation. The chicken, bathed in a rich Marsala wine sauce, was impossibly tender and juicy, a true star of the plate. Every forkful was pure comfort, a warm hug on a chilly New York night.
Beyond the delicious food, the genuine warmth of the staff made the experience truly special. Our server, with their deep knowledge of the menu and infectious passion for Italian cuisine, guided us through our culinary journey with expert recommendations and friendly conversation.
Osteria Barocca is more than just a restaurant; it's an escape to a sun-drenched Sicilian paradise right in the heart of New York City. With its authentic flavors, welcoming atmosphere, impeccable service, and delightful pizzas, it's a guaranteed recipe for a delightful evening. So next time you're craving a taste of Italy, head over to Osteria Barocca and prepare to...
Read moreI'm a Tour Operator and NYC Tour guide, and I have been to most of the Italian restaurants on Mulberry over the years. The way the manager/owner treated me and my guests was absolutely uncalled for and flat-out rude and disrespectful! I took 4 of my clients there for lunch last week, and we were promptly seated inside. Our server Ada was the highlight of our meal, as she was very friendly, attentive and professional.
The food everyone ordered was, for the most part, pretty good, though my dish had a serious issue. I chose to go with their special, the Fruiti di Mare. It came with a multitude of seafood and half a lobster on top. Sadly, when I turned it over, the shell was missing a huge chunk of the lobster. I called over Ada, who apologized, and took the food to her manager. He seemed to believe I was lying and that I ate that part. My 4 clients were quick to my rescue and sided with me that the lobster meat was mostly not present.
When we sat down, I had told Ada that we were tight on time, and needed to leave fairly quickly. So when the manager said we'll redo your lobster and it would be another 15-20 minutes, I quickly explained that I didn't have the time, and to just take the lobster portion of the dish. He disagreed and said I can only take $10 off. I calmly told him this wasn't acceptable, and he insisted he had the other half coming soon. I declined as we had to leave.
As we were heading towards the exit, he brought the other half of the lobster and said, here you go. I once again declined and asked him to do the right thing by taking the lobster off the bill. He then started berating me loudly that he had now lost a full lobster because of my attitude, and was very loud and aggressive towards me about it. He did this in front of my clients and other customers. Completely disrespectful if you ask me. He still didn't take the lobster off the bill, just a small $15 discount. So I paid $60+ with taxes for pasta with a handful of small clams, shrimp and calamari.
As I said in the beginning, I work in that part of town all the time, and I've never had a manager being so aggressive and mean towards a customer before. The dish he served me was missing a key part of the meal, and at $70+ tax, I surely should expect the food looking and being the way it should be. Our total bill was almost $250 without any apetizers or alcohol. Needless to say I would never go back there as long as that manager/owner works there....
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Osteria Barocca, and I must say, it was an extraordinary experience from start to finish. This hidden gem surpassed all my expectations and left me with unforgettable memories.
First and foremost, the food was exceptional. Every dish was crafted with utmost precision and bursting with flavors that danced on my palate. The variety and quality of the ingredients truly showcased the culinary mastery of the chefs. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat.
Now, let's talk about the octopus. Oh my goodness, it was beyond belief! Cooked to perfection, it had a tender yet slightly charred texture that added a delightful smokiness. The flavors were beautifully balanced, and the accompanying sauce elevated the dish to new heights. It was a culinary masterpiece that left me in awe.
But it didn't stop there. The seafood special was simply to die for. Fresh, succulent, and bursting with oceanic goodness, each bite was like a symphony of flavors. The combination of perfectly cooked seafood, aromatic herbs, and a harmonious sauce was a match made in culinary heaven. It was a dish that showcased the restaurant's commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and crafting dishes that are truly unforgettable.
Apart from the extraordinary food, the atmosphere at Osteria Barocca was warm and inviting. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. They went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was exceptional.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a truly remarkable dining experience, look no further than Osteria Barocca. The food is outstanding, the octopus is out of this world, and the seafood special is a true delight. Treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary journey and indulge in the remarkable creations of this extraordinary restaurant. You won't be...
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