Il Pasticcio

Il Pasticcio Review

Everyone from college students to cigar kings, presidents to politicos, and movie producers to stars packs this eccentrically decorated culinary landmark, which opened in 1995. Tourists take photos of the bathrooms, with their ornate mirrors and Romanesque plaster sinks. Chef-owner Paolo, a true paisano, makes this bungalow a personality palace. If he is not on the premises, you can bet that either the yellow or pink Vespa is missing from the dining area, as he drives them to market. A living art gallery, this is where the artists, poets, and intelligentsia hang. His mouthwatering creations are authentic and fresh. Ask about the menu degustacion (tasting menu, $17). Or try the great antipasto selections; commence with the Pasticcio salad, which might have smoked salmon, mozzarella, anchovies, capers, and baby arugula. Even the bread service comes with three sauces: one is like pesto, there's a pomodoro, and the best is a creamy anchovy sauce. They can all be had on pasta, too. And if it's too dim to read the menu, just look up—it's also written on the ceiling. Who said Paolo is off the wall? Finish with a shot of limoncello and cheesecake or handmade gelato with strawberries marinated in wine. The value here is remarkable.