Worth Every Penne – Haute Cuisine New York – Del Posto, Harry Cipriani, Nello’s and more

Del Posto
85 Tenth Ave.
New York, NY 10011
212497-8090

Ambiance
Del Posto has the feel of an opulent Italian palazzo from a 1950s film. The broad staircase, and marble floors give the room a majestic character, and the live piano music evokes the elegance of a bygone era. The little touches, like the flickering candlelight, and the beautiful Ginori porcelain give the room a warmth that guests really appreciate.

What to order
The Cacciucco with Burrida & Sweet Shrimp alla Buzara is a guest favorite. It’s really three dishes in one, which is part of what makes it so special. We have cacciucco, our five shellfish stew from Livorno, burrida, another seafood stew from Genoa, and alla buzara, a preparation similar to shrimp scampi that hails from Udine, the historical capital of Friuli.

Who comes here
Young people, old people, food lovers, movie stars, TV stars, politicos, industry aficionados, business moguls, New Yorkers, tourists, and of course, staff families.

Sweet Tooth
Our Melanzane e Cioccolato, or Eggplant and Chocolate, is a very traditional and simple dish that most people find surprising. It is delicious.

[highlight_text] this eatery attracts business big-shots for power lunches, entertainment and media industry people and a very affectionate clientele who religiously dine at Cipriani locales around the world. [/highlight_text]

Harry Cipriani
781 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY 10022
212-753-5566

Ambiance
Timeless and warm, with elegant décor.

What to order
Enjoy the classic Baked Tagliolini with Ham, Risotto Primavera or the Calves Liver alla Veneziana.

Who comes here
With a universal appeal, this eatery attracts business big-shots for power lunches, entertainment and media industry people and a very affectionate clientele who religiously dine at Cipriani locales around the world.

Sweet Tooth
Vanilla Crème Meringue, Cipriani Chocolate Cake and Crepes a la crème.

Nello’s
696 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10065
212-980-9099

Ambiance
Nello’s presents itself with understated elegance in a laid back setting. The décor of original Peter Beard safari photography and majestic fresh flower arrangements coupled with a relaxed yet refined vibe is the perfect panorama to the unequivocal sightseeing of Madison Avenue.

What to order
Ordering the pasta Tagliolini with fresh spring black truffles we fly in daily as an appetizer or entree is a no-brainer. This signature dish has has developed a cult-like following.

Who comes here
Notable clientele penetrates the spectrum of who’s who, Aristocracy meets Royalty: from Bill Clinton to Jay Z. Other patrons include Sharon Stone, most of the Victoria Secret models, Billionaires – John Paulson, Philip Green, Ron Perelman, English Royalty, Prince Albert of Monaco, Dignitaries, as well as Kanye West, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Russell Crowe, Mickey Rourke, Yoko Ono, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston – let’s just say the notable enjoy my establishment.

Rao’s
455 E. 114th Street
New York, NY 10029
212-722-6709

Ambiance
Small by design—with a mere ten tables, timelessly decorated and classically Italian

What to order
Rao’s is famous for their Lemon Chicken or Veal with Sweet and Hot Peppers and, of course, known for their Marinara Sauce that is bottled and distributed— but nothing compares to trying it freshly-made.

Who comes here
A fixture with unwavering staying power, Rao’s has long been popular with governors, mayors, and celebrities to the tune of Madonna, Donald Trump, Tom Cruise and Celine Dion.

Sweet Tooth
The classic New York Cheescake is unparalleled.