We often crave Italian food and were looking for a nice place for a Friday night, looking at the list of Michelin star restaurants in the city. That is how we ended up at La Sirena. When reserving the table, I chose the dining room instead of the bar room: it was a bit of a mistake in a way. Yes it was quiet, but I thought that the bar room had more character, the dining room being a bit...boring.

But it was the only negative there, the service being perfect, very hospitable, and the food being good. Not the best Italian I had, but good. Here is what we had:

As a cocktail, I settled for the Pioneer, made with Stranahan’s whiskey, orange curaçao, yellow chartreuse, lemon and ginger beer. Quite refreshing, it was not too strong, so what I call a dangerous drink: you could sip it all afternoon like lemonade!

As an appetizer, I picked the octopus that is cut in half and pounded flattening it. It was served with marble potatoes, pistachio, basil and rosemary. I loved it: the octopus was perfectly cooked and nicely charred. I liked the pistachio that gave a little crunch and nuttiness, and the earthy taste given by the basil and rosemary.

Jodi went directly for a pasta entree: the rigatoni alla Norma. It was made with eggplant, tomato and ricotta. Very good, I found it quite comforting.

On my side, I first wanted the quail as I rarely see it on a menu. But, they had an issue with their delivery and switched to the agnolotti cacio e pepe that were just ok: the pasta was good, well cooked, but there was too much pepper.

For dessert, we got the Budino di cioccolato, an Italian chocolate pudding made with Fernet Branca caramel, sweet cream cloud and amaretti. This was a perfect way to finish this meal: it was fantastic, comforting and not overly sweet.

With the check, they brought us pistachio cookies as well as fruit jellies that were a nice touch.

Overall the food was good, but I admit that I prefer Babbo if I have to compare Italian restaurants in the same category. Still, La Sirena proposes a nice menu and I would certainly go back to try other dishes. Maybe this time they will have the quail...

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photo or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

La Sirena - 88 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

La Sirena in Chelsea

I Just Want To Eat!