anyone know a great "neighborhood" Italian restaurant in NYC?
 

As a former NYC resident, I remember the old Italian restaurants that you could count on for serving consistently good, solid food. No fancy interior designs...just great bread, pasta, chicken and veal dishes.
Does this still exist on the UES?
Price is not a factor.

Thanks.

There are several on the UES at different price points. On the less expensive end, I like Zucchero and Pomodoro on 2nd Ave near 75th Street. Moderately priced is Due at 3rd and 79th. For a fancier place (and price) try Elio's.

What does "UES" stand for? (Upper East Side?)

For good traditional italian on the UES I love Il Vagabondo (62nd btwn 1st/2nd). I think Zagat only gives them like an 18 on food but, I find, if you stick with the traditional dishes (chicken/veal parm, meatballs, etc.) it is much better than that rating. The old-school bar, waiters and bocce ball court inside add to the charm as well.

And yes - UES stands for upper east side.

There is a little joint around the corner from the Orpheum (2nd Ave.)Theatre (where Stomp plays) that is more than passable.

I really like Le Zie 2000 in Chelsea. It is on 7th Ave. between 20th and 21st. The food is Venetian and very good. Not expensive.