Do not go to Il Mulino under any circumstance. Not only has everyone who I have spoken to said the food just so-so but more than half had a problem with the bill in favor of the restaurant.

I like Lupa more than Babbo and it's cheaper. I've also eaten several times at Po's location in Brooklyn. I've enjoyed many good meals there---though I haven't ordered the 6 course tasting menu. I typically share an appetizer, a pasta dish, a main course, and a dessert and find that to be plenty. I really like their house dessert--the simply delicious Po sundae. It's mint gelato with fudge topped with pinenuts. Yum.

Couldn't agree more with Adu about Il Mulino. The food may be of high quality, but they virtually throw it at you. They take reservations but they don't honor them, and the wait can be lengthy. And, we've experienced their "creative" billing practices.

Po was Mario Batali's first restaurant, but he hasn't been associated with it for several years. Lupa is still in his domain, but it can be hectic at dinner; much better for lunch.

Have you considered Felidia, Lidia Bastianich's flagship? It fits your criteria of "really good Italian food with ambiance" to a tee.

Ii am trying to walk a thin line--pleasing one frugal friend and one foodie snob friend who lives in the West Village. It sure is hard to please both. I am sorry to hear about Mario not being associated with Po--I think he is quite amazing. I will definitely consider Felidia.

I had dinner at Lupa last week. Started with a salad and then had pasta with lobster. It was delicious and very light - what I was looking for. My friend had the hanger steak - also very delicious. The prices are moderate, but the portions are small. If you are big eaters, the tab can really grow; if not, you will have a high quality meal at a decent price. Po doesn't compare to Lupa. Felidia is not worth the price imo.

I had lunch last summer at Po and was very disappointed in the food. It just wasn't up to the standard I expected.

We went to Felidia last year for our anniversary. Of course, it was good, but nothing extraordinary.

I should say we ate at Po in the Village.

Agree with Aduchamp on Il Mulino as well as Felidia.
Po isn't what it used to be even 2-3 years ago. But there are several amazing new Italian restaurants in NYC now - I Sodi and Dell'Anima are in the Lupa price point with excellent food! Convivio and Scarpetta are at the higher end. All will amaze.