A study in refined simplicity. High-quality spaghetti is tossed in a vibrant emulsion of toasted garlic, fresh red chilies, and plenty of sharp parmesan cheese. It is a bold, flavor-forward dish where the quality of the olive oil and the precision of the seasoning are the stars. Reviewers consistently highlight its spicy, savory punch.
Tips from diners
The chilies have a real kick. If you're sensitive to heat, this might be too much, but for everyone else, it's the most addictive pasta in the West Village.
A 'sleeper hit' that has become a mandatory order for many regulars. The hand-rolled pasta tubes have a perfect al dente bite, serving as the ideal vehicle for a deeply savory, concentrated mushroom ragu. The sauce is earthy and complex, topped with plenty of sharp Pecorino Toscano. It's a brilliant example of how a vegetarian pasta can be just as satisfying as a meat-based one.
Tips from diners
Even if you're a meat eater, order the garganelli. The umami depth in the mushroom sauce is incredible. It's one of the most consistent dishes on the menu.
A textbook execution of the Italian classic. The cake is incredibly moist and dense, featuring the peppery, fruity notes of high-quality olive oil and a bright hint of citrus. It's served with lightly sweetened cream and seasonal fruit. Reviewers often call it the best olive oil cake in Manhattan for its perfect balance of sweet and savory.
A luxurious and deeply savory appetizer. A variety of seasonal mushrooms are roasted until earthy and tender, then topped with a perfectly fried egg with a jammy yolk and crispy pieces of salty pancetta. When the yolk breaks, it creates a rich sauce that binds the whole dish together. It's a favorite for its textural complexity.
Named after the legendary cookbook author Pellegrino Artusi, L'Artusi has been one of the West Village's most consistently popular restaurants since opening in 2008. The bi-level space is stylish and high-energy, centered around a large open kitchen and a world-class wine program. The menu features refined, modern takes on traditional Italian flavors, with a heavy emphasis on handmade pastas and high-quality seasonal produce.
Reservations are notoriously hard to get. They open 21 days in advance at midnight on Resy. If you're targeting a weekend dinner, you need to be online right as they drop.
They hold the large bar and several high-top tables for walk-ins. Arrive at 4:45 PM (before the 5 PM opening) to snag a spot. The full menu is available at the bar, and the vibe is infectious.
Their wine list is exclusively Italian and very deep. Ask the sommelier for a recommendation from a lesser-known region—they have some incredible bottles at fair price points.
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