| About: | Celebrity chef Mario Batali and restaurateur Joe Bastianich have come together to create the ultimate Italian dining experience in New York City. A giant stairway dominates the main dining room, set off by pale wood paneling and an abundance of fresh flowers. The Italian fare is often reinvented classics; for example, before Babbo opened you would not normally find beef cheek raviolis on a menu. So, visit this place for a fine dining experience. |
| Hours: | Dinner nightly |
| Categories: | Italian Restaurants, Continental Restaurants, Restaurants |
| Payment: | MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Diners Club |
| Specialities: | People Watching |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Feature: | Bar, Great Wine List |
| Reservations Policy: | Suggested |
| Dress Code: | Casual dressy |
| Price: | $16 - $27 |
| Other Contact Info: | Fax: 212 777 3365 |
Having eaten at many of the "best" restaurants in NYC, I can tell you that the food at Babbo is AMAZING both in terms of quality (taste, texture, variety, presentation) and also value (cost). The wines list is nicely varied and Mario has not raised the cost of a bottle of wine to insulting levels. Those that complain that getting a reservation is impossible don't know that 6 tables are first-come, first-seat, and there are 10 seats at the bar that also serves the complete menu. HOWEVER, my biggest complaint is that whereas I love the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and the White Stripes, I definitely do NOT like them blaring during my anniversary dinner. I am shocked that Mario allows something so obvious to ruin what should otherwise be an excellent night for his guests. I can only assume he seldom visits this restaurant, is deaf, or is oblivious.
Great service, good food, but nothing special.also a bit expensive.
Absolutely delicious! I have been here a few times. The restaurant's decor is traditional/minimalist. I prefer to dine upstairs in the second floor; however, the first floor is still thoroughly enjoyable. The dishes can range from innovative (using ingredients that are stellar that you would never think of: pounded pig foot, etc....that are superb), to also traditional. I had the best pasta bolognese of my life at Babbo. I highly recommend this restaurant for a date, impress a date, special occasion, fine dining with friends, etc. Nice subtle, soothing and beautiful atmosphere.