VIBE

Popular Italian eatery that’s been a LES hotspot pretty much since it opened. This place understands how to create a great dining experience: lots of flavors and lots of great wine, spiced up with a whole lot of people-watching. With appealing open windows set at street-level on a bustling corner showcasing the cool scene inside, it’s easy to see why mobs of both fashion- and budget-conscious locals keep popping in. Once in the door, the inventive à la carte small plates offer countless variations on classics like antipasti, bruschetti, panini, and tramezzini.

CROWD

The usual Lower East Side mix of fashionistas, dates, barflies, and foodies.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

You’re in the cool LES; go stylishly casual with a funky dress, leggings, and boots.

GO HERE WITH

Friends - for a singles night; significant other - for a fun date

WHY WE LIKE IT

They have fantastic wines and cheeses, and we love their cozy dining room downstairs for private events.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The waits can be a bit off-putting. (We are sooo happy they opened a larger Gramercy location where the waits are shorter.). Also, some parts of the menu are entirely in Italian, which can be tricky for non-Italian speakers.

GOOD TO KNOW

It may be an Italian joint, but there is no pasta on the menu. Also, the plates are quite small, so don’t be afraid to order several things. There are three seating options: the large-windowed main dining room, the outside café tables, and the more private downstairs wine cellar which is modeled after an Italian cantina (complete with antique farm tables and a vaulted ceiling). Reservations are not accepted, so be sure to show up early to snag your favorite spot (the seats overlooking Rivington Street are especially prized).

OTHER LOCATIONS

Inoteca Liquori, Flatiron District (New York); ‘ino, West Village (New York); Corsino Cantina, West Village (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Les Enfants Terribles (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.