Del Posto

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Del Posto Review

Mario Batali's high-profile stab at four-star immortality helped kick off the big-box restaurant boom in the Meatpacking District. Much more formal than his still hugely popular Babbo, the restaurant initially struck many as too grown-up for a big kid like Batali. The dining room—with its sweeping staircase, formal decor, and live tinkling from a baby grand—has the feel of an opulent hotel lobby. But Del Posto prevailed and is now regarded as one of the most consistently dazzling special-occasion spots in a neighborhood overrun with overpriced eateries—and recently earned the distinction of being the only New York Times four-star-rated Italian restaurant. A partnership with TV chef Lidia Bastianich, the restaurant offers pitch-perfect risotto made fresh to order for two people or more (and served in the oversize pan) and big shareable roast hunks of meat (veal chops), as well as ethereal pastas—all with old-world table-side service. For a little taste of the experience, come for a cocktail and sample the bargain bar menu.