If anyone was to ask me where I have had some of my best times and favorite meals, a few places in the New York City area come to mind. Yet, if you were to ask me where I have shared some of the best times of my life with my Fiance', I would say Otto without hesitation. So many joyous occasions and memorable date nights have been shared at Otto. It is casual, funky, and most of all delicious. I can only hope that my take on it does it justice.
Otto Enoteca is a restaurant that holds a place in our story that can be summed up in two words, magical and fun. Inside, Otto has been modeled to look just like an Italian train station, OTTO, meaning "eight" in Italian, is tucked away and located on the corner of 8th Street and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan's East Village neighborhood. Within a few blocks in either direction from Otto, you can find yourself in Washington Square Park or Union Square Park. It really is in a perfect location.
On our most recent trip to Otto, we decided to eat on the early side, 6pm. I should mention that through our 2 1/2 years of experiencing this lively enoteca, we have dined on various days of the week and at different times. The best part is that it is that we have gotten to realize that Otto is ALWAYS hopping. You walk through the door and immediately are welcomed by a lovely hostess who checks you in and shows you either to the very large bar or to your table. On this trip, we were shown right to our table, which was lovely.
One of my favorite things to do while dining at Otto is to enjoy the wine,antipasto, and the 3 cheese plate. The ricotta that they offer is always a must for us and from there we allow the waitress to select the other 2 cheeses. To accompany the cheeses, 3 plates are brought over to the table, each with a special addition to the bread and cheese that you are about to enjoy. Amongst the offerings are: brandied cherries, truffled honey, and chili and honey marinated apricots. Each of the options are equally delicious and each hold a special place in my heart. I suggest trying each and everything that is put in front of you.
Otto is known for the antipasto as I spoke about earlier, but they are also known for their pizzas and small plates. This week we ordered a fusilli pasta that had sausage, garlic, and escarole tossed together and a traditional margarita pizza that is a great standby and staple for any pizza lover. By the time our 2 entrees arrived to the table, we were already full from the cheese, bread, and wine that we had indulged in. However, that didn't stop us from enjoying every bite of the pizza and pasta put before us. The pasta had all the simple components that a great garlic and oil based dish should have. There was the right balance of salt, spice, and earthiness that I love. The pizza is made on a wafer thin crust with the perfect combination of tangy tomato sauce, bright basil, and salty mozzarella.
Usually we will end our meals at Otto with some in house made gelato (olive oil or sea salt are our favorites). Unfortunately, on this trip we were too full and opted for a shared glass of Limoncello that made our mouths sing with joy. Although it was a tiny pour, it really felt like the ultimate ending to yet another amazing meal at Otto. Another successful meal at a restaurant that houses the quintessence of what a great bar/restaurant scene should be in New York City.
What are you still doing reading this?! GO TO OTTO.
Enjoy and happy eating to all!
http://www.ottopizzeria.com/home.cfm
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