Esca
New York, NY 10036-6322
Phone: (212) 564-7272
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- 9th Avenue
- Directions:
- A, C, E at 42nd St
- Hours:
- Mon 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-10:30pm, Tue-Sat 12pm-2:20pm, 5pm-11:30pm, Sun 4:30pm-10:30pm
Editorial Review for Esca – by Erin Behan
The Scene
In an unassuming urban cul-de-sac barely removed from the Broadway fray, Mario Batali, partner Joe Bastianich and chef David Pasternack work their practiced magic. Inside, a constant parade of sure-footed waiters scurry about the three dining rooms, each lined with wine bottles. Despite the buzz, the experience is a serene pleasure, and one that attracts a loyal, older and discerning crowd.
The Food
The menu, devoted to Southern Italian seafood, changes according to availability but freshness is its strength. The crudo, described by waiters as Italian sashimi, bursts with flavor that's often piqued by citrus (tilefish with a blood orange dressing) or spice (fluke with tangy bits of radish). As a mid-course pasta, tender gnocchi flecked with pungent anchovies gracefully transitions to the show-stopper: Whole branzino encased in sea salt and filleted tableside. Too full for calorie-laden dessert? Squeeze in a refreshing gelato or two.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoIn a sea of fish menu items, duck is the only land-leaning entree option.
Look GoodFor a wide-ranging sample, try the tasting menus either for the crudo (six items for $30) or for the entire menu ($65, $95 paired with wine).
The ExtrasIn warmer months, ask to sit in the charming outdoor garden. If you're sans reservation, which can be made up to 30 days in advance, request a seat at the small bar.
What to DrinkAsk for the gracious sommelier to help navigate the lengthy all-Italian wine list. The dessert wines are especially fun: Try the sparkling moscato from Rivetti ($7) for a light finish, or the recioto from Vegali ($16) for a full-bodied rich ending.
User Reviews for Esca
05/28/2008 Posted by cmazzinichin
Somewhat disappointing first visit; overall from a food and service perspective it was inconsistent enough that we would not try dining here again considering the price point. Food - apps of octopus and anchovies were solid. Entrees however, dining companion's fish was overseasoned and my side of morels/favas came out mushy (morels), brown (favas) and also overseasoned. I have cooked in what some may consider "lesser" restaurants and the chefs there would have not let that go out of the kitchen the way it looked, let alone tasted. Considering that was half my entree it really overshadowed the meal (and I left it untouched after the first bite) Service - while the servers/bussers were attentive, our waiter was hurried and the only time we interacted was when he initially dropped the menu. Our orders were taken by a hostess who realized we were not being tended to in a timely fashion. Upon leaving the restaurant only a busser was gracious enough to wish us a good night and thank us while we walked by the hostesses unacknowledged. A trifling thing to some, yes, but it's nice to know one's patronage is appreciated.
Pros: Promptly seated, lots of choices (seafood)
Cons: Inconsistent
04/21/2008 Posted by JCharlotte
My boyfriend & I have been to Esca on several occasions & had wonderful experiences. We went this last weekend for my birthday & we left very disappointed. Since we were there for a special occation we deicded on the Tasting Menu with the wine pairing. The food that Dave prepared was wonderful as usual however the service left much to be desired. There was at least 20 minutes between us finishing 1 course and being brought out the next & our server knew nothing about the wines he was serving. In the end, I will most likely go back, but I won't be ordering the tasting menu.
Pros: Food
Cons: Service
