We were looking for an Italian place on a Saturday evening when we stumbled upon Lattanzi, an Italian restaurant located in the Theater District, right next to Becco, the popular place opened by Lidia and Joe Bastianich. I admit that I was not sure what to expect, some of the places near Times Square being total let downs, and was really surprised about the quality of the food and the nice experience we had. For instance, although the place was packed, they did not rush us and we had a great time there, relaxing, with delicious food and a noise level that was perfect. Decor wise, it has a rustic feel, with its exposed bricks, black and white photos and the napkins on the lamps that cannot be unnoticed.
They started by bringing us a nice bread basket and some olive oil, the bread being composed of sticks, focaccia and rustic bread.
I then ordered a glass of Pinot Noir, Monte Deli Angeli, Piemonte 2015:
For appetizer, we chose the Carciofi Alla Giudia, apparently their signature dish of artichokes cooked jewish style: sautéed with garlic and olive oil. I should mention that on their website, they mentioned an Italian-Jewish menu, but they did not seem to offer it that day, or maybe it is on request. Anyway, we liked this dish that was simple and rustic.
Then, we shared a bunch of dishes. The first one was the Fettuccine al Ragu, homemade fettuccine with ground beef in a fresh tomato sauce. The pasta were perfect and well cooked, and the sauce quite comforting (I should mention there was a lot of it). As I shared it with my nephew Valentin, they gracefully split the portion into two plates.
The second dish was Ravioli con Fungi Porcini, homemade ravioli filled with wild porcini mushrooms in a mushroom reduction. That's the kind of choice that would satisfy mushroom lovers. I liked it, the ravioli being not too thick and the filling delicious.
The last entree we shared was the Bronzino Oreganata or Mediterranean sea bass baked in olive oil, garlic, bread crumbs, capers, and white wine. This was sublime: the fish was perfectly cooked and moist, with a nice crust.
Last was dessert: we shared the panna cotta and the tiramisu, two classics very well executed. My favorite was definitely the tiramisu that was very creamy and had the right amount of coffee.
We left really glad to have found such place and very surprised too. Lattanzi is a nice Italian restaurant in an area that sometimes cares more about foot traffic than returning customers. But you know what: I'll be back there because it is worth the trip.
Enjoy (I did)!
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Lattanzi - 361 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036