Widely considered the best Martini in New York City. It is served in a frozen glass, diluted precisely, and kept at a temperature that ensures it remains crisp and refreshing from the first sip to the last. They offer several variations, including the 'Martini 200' which is their most traditional version. Reviewers frequently highlight the elegance of the service and the perfect temperature control.
Tips from diners
Go for 'Martini Hour' from 3 PM to 5 PM daily—most Martinis are only $10. It's the best value for world-class cocktails in Manhattan.
The restaurant's signature small plate. A whole ball of incredibly creamy, fresh burrata is paired with tomatoes that have been roasted until their flavor is sweet and concentrated. It's finished with high-quality olive oil and fresh basil, served with thin, crunchy slices of toasted rye bread. It is a brilliant example of how high-quality dairy and produce can create a destination dish through simple, refined assembly.
Tips from diners
Spread the tomato onto the rye toast first, then top with a generous piece of burrata. The crunch of the rye is the secret to why this version is so good.
A textbook execution of the classic Italian dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers are sandwiched between a remarkably light and airy mascarpone cream, finished with a heavy dusting of high-quality cocoa powder. Reviewers consistently praise its balance of bitterness and sweetness, making it the perfect end to a meal.
A comforting and hearty main course. The rigatoni is cooked to a perfect al dente and tossed in a rich, meaty sauce that has been simmered for hours to develop deep savory notes. It's topped with a generous dusting of sharp Pecorino Romano. It represents the heart of the restaurant's Italian heritage, providing a more substantial meal beyond the bar snacks.
Originally opened in 1915, Dante was a legendary meeting spot for the neighborhood's Italian community. Reopened in 2015, it has been named 'The World's Best Bar' and is celebrated for its impeccable cocktail program, specifically its focus on the Negroni and Martini. The space maintains its vintage European café charm while serving a refined modern menu of pastas and appetizers.
Reservations for the original MacDougal Street location book up about two weeks in advance. If you can't find a spot, try their second location, Dante West Village, which is larger and often has more availability.
The 3-5 PM Martini Hour is legendary and walk-in only. Arrive at 2:45 PM to claim one of the outdoor tables—it's the best people-watching spot in Greenwich Village.
If you're solo, the bar is the place to be. The bartenders are world-class and can give you a history lesson on any cocktail you're drinking.
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