By Irene Fantopoulos
Del Posto Ristorante is located on 85 10th Avenue near what is known as the Meat Packing District, just south of Chelsea and near the High Line Park. It is the brainchild of renowned chefs and entrepreneurs Joe Bastianich, Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali.
The surroundings are elegant, converted from what was once an Oreo cookie factory. The establishment would never be recognized by the original designers or former Nabisco owners. The exterior is fairly non-descript, but the interior spares no detail. From the elegant staircase that leads to the upper dining area, to the traditional furniture, to the dark woods, all unite to create a lush ambiance. There are many tables, but don’t be deceived, as reservations are always recommended.
The staff are attentive to your every need. There is a sommelier to guide your wine selection that can be individualized for each course. There is a stool on which to place your purse or your bags, so that they don’t lie perilously on the floor. Staff are at the ready to answer any question that you might have, including personally escorting you to the rest room. The service was second to none. It is this attention to detail that will have you talking about your dining experience for months to come.
The meal itself is truly a feast, modeled in the likeness of an Italian wedding - you know the one you’ve been to with an eight-course extravaganza. There are two course options: a five- or seven-course meal with wine pairings. Two of us shared the five-course meal and believe me, it was more than enough. The courses are well-paced and made with fresh local ingredients, where possible. The sumptuous concoctions rest on the palate like their fine selection of wine.
When nearing the end of the meal, no attention to detail is spared. A complimentary dessert of spuntini or merende (small bites) and a small box of truffles for the ladies on the way out, add a special finish to a wonderful celebration of Italian haute cuisine. Compliments to the chef for putting together such an eclectic feast.
Batali and the Bastianich's have a gem here.
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