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Lattanzi Cucina Italiana
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
Lattanzi Cucina Italiana
8.5
Family-owned since 1984, this Restaurant Row townhouse specializes in Roman Jewish-style cuisine with signature carciofi alla giudia. SNL creator Lorne Michaels hosts weekly Tuesday dinners here, cementing its status as a Theater District institution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carciofi alla Giudia, Bucatini all'Amatriciana, Homemade Cannoli
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Rare Roman Jewish-style Italian cuisine with famous deep-fried artichokes
Who should go: Food historians, theater patrons, celebrity spotters
When to visit: Tuesday nights or pre-theater dinner
What to order: Start with carciofi alla giudia, absolutely essential
Insider tip: Ask for the garlic matzoh—a signature from the Roman Jewish tradition
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Two parking lots on the same block; street parking difficult in Theater District; SpotHero recommended for advance booking nearby
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - no shorts, flip-flops, or t-shirts; slacks/dress shirts expected; theater-appropriate attire; jacket not required but fits the elegant townhouse atmosphere
Noise level: Moderate - tables nicely spaced in multi-level townhouse; can hold conversation comfortably; some pre-theater bustle but not overwhelming; 'perfect for private conversation' per USA Today
Weekend wait: Reservations strongly recommended especially pre-theater; book via OpenTable or call (212) 315-0980
Weekday lunch: Easier to get table; prix fixe lunch option available Tue-Sat 12-2:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including signature carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes), pastas, and vegetable dishes; staff accommodating
Vegan options: Yes - vegan options available; inform server for best recommendations; kitchen will accommodate requests
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options available; call ahead for strict allergies to ensure proper preparation
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - USA Today called it a 'perfect date place with softly lit tables just distant enough to have a private conversation.' The romantic multi-level townhouse setting with exposed brick, wooden beams, and intimate lighting creates an ideal atmosphere. Multiple dining areas (garden patio, heated terrace, second floor) offer variety. Request the garden in warm weather or a corner table for extra privacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky, especially pre-theater (5-7pm) and Tuesday nights (SNL crew dinner night). The restaurant handles high volume of theatergoers efficiently. For same-day availability call (212) 315-0980 or try OpenTable. Late post-show dining (after 9pm) offers better walk-in chances. Tuesday evenings may have Lorne Michaels and that week's SNL host present.
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable for older, well-behaved children but not ideal for young kids. The elegant townhouse setting, upscale clientele, and refined atmosphere are geared toward adults and special occasions. No kids' menu. Families with teens who appreciate Italian cuisine would be fine, especially at lunch when the atmosphere is more relaxed.
Best For
Better for: Food historians seeking rare Roman Jewish cuisine (cucina Ebraica Romana) unavailable elsewhere in NYC, couples wanting romantic multi-level townhouse dining, celebrity spotters hoping to see SNL cast on Tuesdays, and theater patrons who want refined Italian without rushing
Skip if: You want trendy modern Italian, need budget-friendly Theater District options, are dining with young children, or prefer loud energetic atmospheres over intimate elegance
Lattanzi Cucina Italiana
8.4
A cozy, classic Italian‑American restaurant where locals and theater folks gather for hearty pasta and a reliably warm vibe. Known for ample portions and soft‑lit tables that make it a go-to for unpretentious date nights or post‑show dinners. Portions are generous and the ambiance feels welcoming rather than pretentious.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rigatoni Bolognese, Chicken Parmigiana, Homemade Bread & Olive Oil
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Old‑school, reliably good Italian fare in a warm, intimate space.
Who should go: Couples or theater‑goers looking for comfort Italian.
When to visit: Weekday evenings before shows.
What to order: Rigatoni Bolognese, Chicken Parmigiana, homemade bread & oil.
Insider tip: Ask for a table in the back to skip crowd before showtime.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be difficult after 6pm. Consider using a nearby parking garage for convenience.
Dress code: Smart casual, jeans are fine but lean dressy to fit the cozy yet slightly upscale vibe.
Noise level: Moderate - You can hear your date, though it may get livelier before or after theater shows.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - There are several vegetarian options including pasta dishes and vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan-friendly dishes are available, mostly focusing on vegetable-based preparations.
Gluten-free options: Yes - Separate prep area and gluten-free pasta options are offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Lattanzi Cucina Italiana is a great first date spot. The intimate and cozy atmosphere is perfect for conversation, and the classic Italian dishes make for a relaxed and unpretentious experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While it's possible to get a table without a reservation, it's recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends or before theater showtimes, to avoid long wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the restaurant is family-friendly. While it has a romantic vibe, the portion sizes and hearty Italian fare make it suitable for children. However, it may not be the most exciting option for younger kids who are more accustomed to casual dining.
Best For
Better for: Lattanzi excels in providing hearty, no-fuss Italian comfort food in a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere—ideal for theater-goers and couples looking for a casual yet special evening.
Skip if: If you're looking for modern or experimental Italian dishes, or a more vibrant, lively atmosphere, you may prefer alternatives that focus on a more contemporary dining experience.
Lattanzi Cucina Italiana
8.5
Roman‑style pastas and classic Italian‑American plates served in a multi‑level dining space with a garden terrace — a dependable spot for relaxed family meals near the Theater District.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmigiana, Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Family‑run Roman‑style restaurant with garden terrace and long history since 1984.
Who should go: Families + theater‑goers wanting comforting Italian dinner.
When to visit: Early dinner before shows or weekend lunch.
What to order: Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmigiana, Ricotta Gnocchi
Insider tip: Ask for the heated garden‑terrace seating when weather allows.
Lattanzi Cucina Italiana
8.3
Steady, family‑owned Roman‑style spot serving well‑executed classic pastas and traditional mains in a multi‑level space — a reliably good choice for pre- or post‑show date dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe, Veal Saltimbocca, Homemade Gnocchi
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Decades‑old Roman‑style cooking with consistent quality in a spacious, familiar setting.
Who should go: Couples wanting no‑fuss, classic Italian dinner.
When to visit: Evenings, especially before or after Broadway shows.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, veal saltimbocca, homemade gnocchi.
Insider tip: Request the upstairs terrace for a quieter table away from the hustle.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but it can be difficult to find a spot after 6pm. There is a valet service for $15.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but lean dressy to match the date night ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate. It's busy, but you can still hear your date clearly, especially if seated upstairs.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetarian options are available with a dedicated section on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan options available.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free items are prepared in a separate area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, this is an excellent choice for a first date. The atmosphere is romantic yet casual, making it a relaxed setting to enjoy a great meal without the pressure of fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends or evenings before Broadway shows, as this place can get quite busy.
Is it kid-friendly? While the restaurant doesn’t cater specifically to children, it is family-friendly. Older kids (10+) might appreciate the hearty Italian dishes. High chairs are available upon request.
Best For
Better for: This place excels in providing a classic, no-fuss Italian experience, perfect for date nights and pre-show dinners in the Theatre District.
Skip if: If you're looking for a modern twist on Italian cuisine or a more adventurous menu, consider alternatives like L'Artusi or Carbone.