Lupa
(212) 982-5089
170 Thompson St
New York,
NY
10012
40.7275
-74.0002
Neighborhoods: SoHo, Downtown
What People Are Saying About Lupa
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Since 1999, Babbo's loveable (and much less expensive) little cousin has been going like gangbusters. The candle-lit bar is the destination of trendy wine-sippers and snackers, and the rustic-chic dining room, with brick arches that open onto a tight sidewalk terrazza, is booked weeks in advance. Expect to wait, even with reservations; once you're seated, service is knowledgeable and friendly.
The Food
Chef-partner Mark Ladner has found his stride with this robust Roman menu. Gratis rosemary focaccia finds no better match than his inspired antipasti: truffled radiccho with herbed breadcrumbs, squash-onion caponata and sweet-sour sardines arrive in deep little bowls. House-cured meats are another must, but it's the pastas, particular the airy, ricotta gnocchi topped with ragu and chewy bucatini with homemade guanciale, that truly soar. Ladner's fritto misto, a high stack of crisp-fried seafood with heady herb coulis, rivals spicy lamb sausage for the best-dish crown. Dessert is all about the tartufo--a big hazelnut-covered chocolate ice cream ball.
User Reviews
marinaselepouchin
March 23, 2009
On a Sunday evening my friend and I spontaneously met up on SoHo to grab a bite to eat. I have been wanting to go to Lupa but have had a hard time getting a reservation on a days notice. On a whim we decided to try...the place was packed, but luck was on our side as the hostess was able to seat us right away at a table that was just cleared. Another women checked our coats and bags, she was so cheerful and friendly. We really felt that we were appreciated for our business. The meal was fantastic and our waitress was kind and friendly, not overbearing. The atmosphere was lovely and it was one of those truly enjoyable dining experiences. The coat check lady came to us with our coats, no prompting necessary. Great atmosphere, fantastic food, and exception service!
read full review
dshapusa
March 13, 2009
We are just back from Rome and where we have essentially ate our way across the city, so going to an Italian restaurant in New York is definitely taking our chances. BTW, there is no bad pasta in Rome, but there is terrible Pizza. Lupa, the she wolf, symbol of Rome, is wonderful bistro, on Thompson Street, nyc, that gets it right. The waiters are extremely knowledgeable, (do you know the difference between Borsci and Lucano digestifs) and are actually helpful, rare in New York. Appetizers are served in soup bowls and are tasty and distinctive. I liked the Winter Squash alla Romana. Pastas are bountiful and have interesting twists; the Bavette Cacio has a bread crumb topping. The major compliant is that the selection is small. The main courses fish or meat are seasoned just so. Sorry, Vegans need not apply. While the wine list is not cheap the variety is amazing and half carafes are available. Desserts are definitely Italian style and even the Tartufo, an ice cream bombe, has a certain savior faire. Italians entertain at restaurants not usually at home and Lupa always has several large groups going at one time. Rather than assign a single waiter to a large table teams of waiters work together and that way everyone gets served together. Warning the front room is noisy and reservations are not only a must, but weekend reservations are hard to get. Dinner for two with an inexpensive wine comes to about $140. see ditmas estates
read full review
CSMobileUser2
March 10, 2009
This food is bad and bland enough said. Its scene is very phony. The service is mediocre and people only go because Mario Batali owns the place. Nothing special at all. Go around the corner to bar piti. All
read full reviewThe Details on Lupa
Look Good:
If you don't know your "fregola" from your "farro," consult the menu's glossary. It'll also enlighten you with the meaning of "lupa": she-wolf.
What to Drink:
The stellar Italian wine list features many rare, regional selections in the $20 to $35 range. Ciro's San Felice Ducale, a rootsy red from Calabria, is a fave.
Know Before You Go:
Parties of seven or more must order the tasting menu, which is $60 per person.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Romantic Dining, Celeb Hangout, Private Rooms, People Watching, Date Spot, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar, Bar Scene, Notable Wine List, Prix Fixe Menu
