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Da Raffaele
Master Critic Review
Da Raffaele
8.1
Owner-chef Raffaele brings genuine Southern Italian warmth to this intimate Turtle Bay gem, where regulars are greeted by name and specials change daily. The grilled octopus with eggplant puree and handmade pastas reflect decades of culinary experience including cooking for Frank Sinatra.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Octopus with Eggplant Puree, Linguine with Baby Octopus, Veal Milanese
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Owner-chef Raffaele's personal hospitality and Southern Italian cooking legacy
Who should go: Those seeking authentic personal service and neighborhood charm
When to visit: Early dinner for intimate conversation with the chef
What to order: Daily specials, grilled octopus, homemade orangecello
Insider tip: Raffaele often visits tables to discuss the menu and shares stories of cooking for celebrities
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking. Street parking on 1st Ave difficult after 5pm. Nearby garages on E 48th-51st St run $25-40 evening. Subway (6 train to 51st St) recommended.
Dress code: Casual - this is a comfortable neighborhood spot. Jeans and nice shirts perfectly appropriate. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - tables well spaced for easy conversation. One of the neighborhood's best spots for intimate dialogue.
Weekend wait: Reservations recommended via OpenTable. Walk-ins often accommodated given smaller crowd, but call ahead Saturday.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait - pizza and lighter fare available 12-3pm. Popular with local professionals.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - many options including pasta dishes, vegetable plates, salads, and pizza at lunch. Menu rotates seasonally.
Vegan options: Limited - salads and vegetable sides can be modified. Discuss with Raffaele directly for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Informal accommodations - no dedicated menu but kitchen will work with you. Fish and meat dishes naturally GF. Ask server about pasta alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. The quiet atmosphere allows real conversation, the intimate setting feels romantic without being stuffy, and Raffaele's personal table visits add memorable character. Well-spaced tables mean privacy. Order the grilled octopus to share and let him guide your wine selection.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes - the restaurant rarely gets packed, and walk-ins are regularly seated even at 8pm. That said, reservations via OpenTable are easy and guarantee your spot, especially for Saturday dinner. Call ahead if you have a larger party.
Is it kid-friendly? Very welcoming to families. Staff has brought out buttered pasta for babies, and Raffaele personally engages children with small gifts like his signature buttons. The casual vibe and flexible kitchen make it comfortable for parents. Pizza at lunch is a kid-pleaser.
Best For
Better for: Personal connection with an owner-chef who greets every table, consistently quiet atmosphere for conversation, and authentic Southern Italian cooking from someone with 20+ years in the neighborhood. Birthday celebrations get enthusiastic singing. The seasonal game dishes (venison, quail, wild boar in fall) are unique to the area.
Skip if: You want a buzzy scene or trendy crowd - this is a quiet neighborhood gem, not a destination. Closed Sundays. Also not ideal if you're in a rush - the pace is leisurely and Raffaele likes to chat.