Like some of the world's best trattorias, Torino Italian is located in a corner so familiar that you might walk by it without noticing it, which would mean you're missing out on one of New York City's absolutely greatest restaurants. Just a few blocks away from Carnegie Hall and The Ed Sullivan Theatre, among other famous sights, Torino Italian sits 75 people inside (there is a lovely outdoor area as well, perfect for summer cocktails) which makes it feel rather intimate. The luxurious space is the perfect balance of modern and rustic, with oversized tables and seating arrangements that will serve larger groups as well as couples having a romantic night out.
The food at Torino Italian is just the right combination of modern Mediterranean dishes and unique takes on Italian staples, like their Rigatoni al Nero, an exquisite combination of seafood, peperoncino and blackened rigatoni (perfectly brought to its "al dente" point) which sprinkled with a few drops of lemon makes for a flavorful, adventurous meal. Their risotto with Brussel sprouts and sausage is equally good! Do not be deceived by the seeming simplicity of the dishes on the menu, for each is perhaps more complex in terms of flavors and textures than the previous.
Their appetizer menu is populated with well known dishes like Tuna Tartare or Burrata, each made to feel as if you're tasting it for the very first time, thanks to the use of unique ingredients. The Tartare for instance is served with French beans and red quinoa, giving the freshness of the fish a caviar-like texture, softened by the creaminess of the beans. Their Grilled Octopus Panzanella is a feat of simplicity done right, and the more you try their food, the more surprised you are by how great everything is...their Beet Salad with a creamy yogurt sauce, just tangy and sweet enough, as not to overpower, and you simply can not leave without ordering the Crispy Artichoke (which in a very hard contest, would win as our favorite!). There's also a spacious bar, with an imposing selection of wines and spirits displayed on the walls that never feels pretentious because the bartender and servers are always smiling, and are more than prepared to make recommendations.
This is perhaps where Torino Italian beats its competition, its service is remarkable! Every single staff member has a smile on their face and are more than happy to make suggestions about what drinks to pair your food with, or what dessert to taste after your dinner, without ever being pushy or overbearing. It's the kind of service you leave talking about, for all good reasons! Pair this with great food, and Torino Italian will soon become one of your favorites.
For theatre goers (or just people who love good food) Torino Italian has introduced a Prix Fixe Menu for both lunch and dinner. We encourage you to try it out on your next visit to Midtown!
Lunch Menu (available from 11am - 4pm) Guests can either pick 2 courses for $24 of 3 courses for $29
Appetizers:
Insalata Torino (Kale, ricotta salata, fennel, olives & cherry tomatoes)
Meatball Crostini (veal & beef, tomato sauce, parmesan & toasted ciabatta)
Soup of the day
Entrees:
Oven Roasted Rosemary Chicken (lemon caramelized stuffed with rosemary, spring vegetables)
Fusilli Pesto (string beans, potatoes, toasted pine nuts)
Salmone Scozzese (asparagus, mache farro salad, pickled red onions)
Dessert:
Choice of dessert from the regular menu
Dinner Prix- Fixe is 3 courses for $39:
Insalata Torino (Kale, ricotta salata, fennel, olives & cherry tomatoes)
Meatball Crostini (veal & beef, tomato sauce, parmesan & toasted ciabatta)
Crispy artichoke
Entrees:
Hanger Steak (sautéed broccoli rabe, polenta & pepperoncino)
Oven Roasted Rosemary Chicken (lemon caramelized stuffed with rosemary, spring vegetables)
Fusilli Pesto (string beans, potatoes, toasted pine nuts)
Salmone Scozzese (asparagus, mache farro salad, pickled red onions)
Dessert:
Choice of dessert from the regular menu
For more information and reservations call 212.757.2233 or visit torinoitalian.com.