Recently, we had the pleasure of enjoying a fancy lunch at Torrisi Bar & Restaurant in Nolita, NYC. Owned by the renowned Major Food Group (founded by chefs Rich Torrisi and Mario Carbone), this Italian restaurant lives up to the hype. From the moment we stepped inside the historic building, the iconic Puck Building, to the final bite of our delicious meal, the experience was truly exceptional.
The hottest new Italian restaurant in NY?
Torrisi, a vibrant restaurant boasting a bustling bar area, elegant décor, and vaulted ceilings adorned with stunning artwork, offers an infectious energy perfect for a special occasion or a memorable night out with friends. This establishment, located in the heart of Nolita, has quickly become a favorite among New Yorkers and visitors alike.
The Food!
Our culinary journey began with the Cucumbers New Yorkese, a dish that showcased a perfect balance of flavor and crunch. The presentation was beautiful, setting the tone for the exquisite meal ahead. This refreshing antipasti perfectly whetted our appetites for what was to come.
Next came the Tuna with Pickled Caponata. As self-proclaimed “fish snobs,” we were pleasantly surprised by the dish’s freshness and depth of flavor. The caponata added a delightful tangy counterpoint to the delicate tuna, making it an unforgettable experience.
For our main courses, we opted for the Penne with Chanterelles and Raviolini with Prawns and Saffron. The penne was cooked to perfection, boasting a delightful al dente texture. The chanterelles added an earthy richness that perfectly complemented the buttery sauce, without being overly oily. The raviolini, were thin and delicate, bursting with flavor from the prawns and saffron. Every bite of these flavorful Italian pastas was a revelation.
The Drinks
Torrisi’s impressive wine list offered a perfect complement to our meal. We highly recommend exploring their diverse selection, guided by the knowledgeable staff. If you’re looking for a refreshing mid-day drink, their Perfect Martini is a must-try. The secret blend of half dry vermouth and half sweet vermouth creates a delightfully balanced and nuanced drink.
A Sweet Ending
While we were already quite satisfied after our delicious meal, we were pleasantly surprised by a complimentary treat. Torrisi offered us a refreshing palate cleanser in the form of lemon and pineapple Italian ices, alongside a selection of delightful Italian cookies. These desserts were delicately made and melted in your mouth, providing the perfect sweet ending to our culinary journey.
Amazing Front-Of-House
A special shout-out goes to our server, Frederic, whose expertise and friendly demeanor significantly enhanced our experience. His passion for the food and genuine hospitality made us feel right at home.
The Verdict
Torrisi Bar & Restaurant is undeniably an Italian spot you can’t miss in NYC. While snagging a reservation might be challenging, and the price reflects the high-end experience, the effort is truly worth it. Securing a table requires persistence, as reservations open at midnight on Resy and tend to fill up quickly. However, the exquisite Italian food, impressive service, and vibrant atmosphere make Torrisi a dining experience that is both memorable and delightful.
Getting a reservation at Torrisi
The reservation slots on Resy open at midnight. Lunch is usually easier to get than dinner so set a notification for multiple times. Torissi also has some seatings reserved for walk-ins so if you’re short on time, coming early at the opening time (currently 11:30 AM for lunch and 5 PM for dinner but check ahead!) may be your best bet.
