I recall the first time I heard the name Eataly. I was on a plane and flipping through the airline magazine they so kindly tuck into the seat pocket. Suddenly … there it was. A new concept was launching in New York City. A warehouse sized space dedicated to Italian food and wine. WHAT!?! I love Italian food … and I love wine … so this caught my attention.
At its launch, Eataly was a novel concept. Tucked amongst shelves of fresh produce, dried pasta, seafood, meats, and home goods are restaurants and cafes. Each dining area showcases artisanal, high-quality Italian food and products.
I was sold, and Eataly Flatiron immediately went on the list of things-to-do. It was love at first sight, and we return regularly. Our absolute favorite restaurant was Le Verdure (vegetables). The magic this kitchen concocted with vegetables was perfection. I was always amazed by the flavor they generated from (what appeared to be) such simple recipes. Sadly, Le Verdure was replaced by a new concept. I still miss it to this day.
Additional dishes we often order are Ravioli di Zucca, Agnolotti del Plin, and Quadrati con Ricotta e Spinaci. All are equally delicious. Last time we visited, I couldn’t resist the special, penne pasta with sausage and brussel sprouts. Yes, please! It was exactly what I was craving – salt from the sausage and richness from the butter offset the brussel sprouts beautifully.
After six years of success in Flatiron, Eatalay opened its second location in 2016. Downtown is a hidden treasure. At La Pizza & La Pasta A Colori, large picture windows frame views of the World Trade Center Memorial. For those of you in search of photo backdrops, the current yarn installation at La Pizza & La Pasta A Colori (Downtown) photographs beautifully in portrait mode.
