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Barbetta
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Barbetta
8.8
NYC's oldest Italian restaurant (since 1906), still family-owned, specializing in Piemontese cuisine with house-made agnolotti and white truffle risotto. The 18th-century antique-filled dining room and verdant garden patio transport diners to old-world elegance, earning Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence for its 1,700-label cellar.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-made Agnolotti, Risotto with White Truffle, Slow Roasted Piemontese Rabbit with Polenta
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 9.5
What makes it special: NYC's oldest Italian restaurant with a stunning garden patio and 118 years of family ownership
Who should go: Couples, special occasions, theater patrons seeking elegance
When to visit: Pre-theater dinner or summer garden dining
What to order: White truffle risotto, agnolotti, champagne risotto
Insider tip: Request garden seating in warm weather for one of NYC's most romantic outdoor spaces
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking - Restaurant Row location between 8th and 9th Avenues; street parking difficult; nearby garages available in Theater District
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - no strict dress code but jeans/t-shirts would feel underdressed; most guests dress nicely for theater; jacket not required but wouldn't be out of place
Noise level: Quiet and intimate - widely spaced tables in elegant townhouse setting; piano player adds ambiance; perfect for conversation; described as 'classy and controlled, not a place for loud groups'
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - book via OpenTable or call (212) 246-9171; walk-ins unlikely to be accommodated during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Lunch available Wed and Sat only; reservations recommended but easier to secure than dinner
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including vegetable antipasti, house-made pastas with vegetable sauces, risottos, and vegetable-forward sides
Vegan options: Limited - modifications possible; inform staff in advance for best accommodation
Gluten-free options: Yes - accommodations available upon request; staff experienced with dietary restrictions; notify when booking
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Exceptional for a first date if you want to impress - frequently cited as one of NYC's most romantic restaurants. The intimate candlelit tables, 18th-century antiques, and stunning garden (in season) create an unforgettable setting. The $65 prix-fixe pre-theater menu offers elegance without breaking the bank. Only caveat: might feel too formal if you prefer casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely during pre-theater hours (4:30-7pm) or Saturday evenings. However, given the large dining room (some nights only 6 tables occupied), late evening walk-ins (after 8pm) may succeed. Reservations strongly recommended via OpenTable or phone - this is a special occasion destination, not a casual drop-in spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - the formal atmosphere, antique-filled rooms, and sophisticated clientele make this better suited for mature teens (14+) who can appreciate fine dining. One TripAdvisor reviewer noted they wouldn't bring children under 10 as 'they would not have appreciated what you are paying for.' Save this for adult occasions.
Best For
Better for: Couples seeking the most romantic Italian in the Theater District, anniversary or milestone celebrations, pre-theater dining with white-tablecloth elegance, wine connoisseurs (1,700+ label cellar), and anyone wanting to experience authentic Piemontese cuisine in a historic landmark setting dating to 1906
Skip if: You want modern Italian cuisine, prefer casual or trendy atmospheres, are bringing young children, need Sunday or Monday dining (closed), or want budget-friendly options (this is $$$$ territory)
Barbetta
8.3
A century-old Piedmontese landmark with upstairs private dining rooms and a rare Midtown garden that feels miles from the billboards. The menu is old-school Northern Italian—truffles, agnolotti, rabbit—best enjoyed with a deep wine list and unhurried pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agnolotti del Plin, Risotto with White Truffle, Piemontese Rabbit
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Historic 1906 Italian brownstone with true private rooms and garden.
Who should go: Classic-Italian lovers and milestone diners
When to visit: Pre-theater early dinner or spring garden nights
What to order: Agnolotti, truffle risotto, rabbit
Insider tip: Garden seating is the move—request it when in season.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available for $18, street parking is limited, especially during evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but opt for something slightly dressy to match the upscale atmosphere.
Noise level: Low to moderate – perfect for intimate conversations and enjoying the unhurried pace.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially during peak theater hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, though it can get busier during the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several vegetarian options like truffle risotto and vegetable agnolotti.
Vegan options: Limited - a few plant-based options, though not an extensive vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - they offer gluten-free pasta and have a separate prep area to accommodate dietary needs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The intimate, luxurious setting and unhurried service create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic and memorable evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's not recommended, especially on weekends or pre-theater times. Reservations are highly advised to ensure a table, particularly if you want to enjoy the garden seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Barbetta is better suited for adults, especially for romantic dinners or milestone celebrations. The upscale vibe may not be ideal for younger children, but older kids may enjoy the ambiance.
Best For
Better for: Barbetta excels in creating a unique, luxurious dining experience with private rooms and a serene garden in Midtown, offering a quieter escape compared to most restaurants in the area.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more casual or family-friendly spot, or if you're in a rush, this might not be the best choice. Also, if you're after a more modern or experimental Italian menu, other spots might suit you better.
Barbetta
8.6
Centennial‑old classic featuring Piedmontese specialties like house‑made agnolotti and white‑truffle risotto in a refined brownstone with garden patio — a solid choice for a quietly elegant date night in the Theatre District.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agnolotti del Plin, Risotto al Tartufo Bianco, Slow‑Roasted Piemontese Rabbit
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Over a century of Piedmont‑rooted cuisine served in a historic brownstone with garden patio.
Who should go: Couples seeking refined, romantic European dining.
When to visit: Dinner after theatre shows or weekend evenings.
What to order: Agnolotti del Plin, white‑truffle risotto, Piemontese rabbit.
Insider tip: Ask for a table near the garden patio for a quieter, romantic atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited, but valet service is available for $15. Arrive early to secure a spot on the street.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are fine, but lean towards dressier attire for a more elegant experience.
Noise level: Low – perfect for intimate conversations, with the garden patio offering a particularly serene atmosphere.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait if you don’t have a reservation, especially on weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though reservations are still recommended for optimal seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – there are a variety of vegetarian options, including a dedicated section on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited – there are a few vegan-friendly dishes available, but they are not the focus of the menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options are available, and they use a separate prep area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Barbetta is perfect for a first date. The intimate, romantic setting combined with exceptional Italian cuisine creates a memorable experience that will set the right tone for a special evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s not recommended, especially on weekends or after theatre shows. Barbetta is quite popular, so making a reservation ensures you get a table without waiting too long.
Is it kid-friendly? Barbetta is more suited for adults, particularly couples. While children are welcome, the ambiance and menu may not be ideal for younger diners, and there are no specific child-focused amenities.
Best For
Better for: Barbetta excels in offering an elegant, refined atmosphere with expertly crafted Piedmontese dishes, making it a standout choice for a quiet, upscale date night.
Skip if: Skip Barbetta if you’re looking for a casual or family-oriented dining experience, as the vibe leans towards luxury and intimacy.