VIBE

This attractive Italian eatery is as authentic as they come. All furnishings, from the copper chandeliers to the weathered wood pillars painted with medieval designs, are imported directly from Italy, where the original sister restaurant makes its home. The villa-like dining room and more casual café areas host square tables with white linen and richly dark wood chairs while within the nooks of every wall, countless varieties of wine find a nest—just a sampling of what lies beneath (the restaurant's wine cellar is one of New York’s largest). The Veronese fare is fresh, seasonal, and widely celebrated as some of the best authentic Italian cuisine in the city.

CROWD

European business types; Fifth Avenue shoppers; wine enthusiasts

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

To fit with the casual upscale crowd, try a chic blouse with wide belt, khaki capris, and elegant heels. You’ll fit right in with business attire too (especially in the dining room).

GO HERE WITH

Friends; coworkers; significant other

WHY WE LIKE IT

It seems like every city is overrun by countless numbers of “authentic” Italian restaurants, but this one truly plays the part. With Italy-imported décor and one of the city’s biggest and best wine focuses, Bottega del Vino stands near the top as one of the most transporting experiences in Italian dining.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The dining room feels just a bit dark and heavy to us, but that’s just a matter of personal preference. And maybe it’s the Midtown location, but this place feels a bit more business than pleasure.

GOOD TO KNOW

If you don’t have time for a meal, pop in for an espresso in the front café and watch Fifth Avenue go by. World-renowned wine personality and proprietor Severino Barzan has put together an extensive house list for all wine lovers. They may feel a bit lost, however, scanning the 2,000-plus-bottle wine selection (the wine cellar itself is said to hold over 10,000 bottles). If you are impressed by your table’s fabulous stemware (designed by Barzan himself to improve and preserve the wine it holds), you can purchase your own at the restaurant. This spot is a joint venture with another favorite of The Purple Passport, Via Quadronno.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Antica Bottega del Vino (Verona, Italy)

CLOSEST COMPS

Bice New York (New York); Bice (Palm Beach); Harry Cipriani (New York)