Lupa
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 982-5089
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Between Bleecker Street and Houston Street
- Directions:
- 1, 2 at Houston St; N, R at Prince St
- Hours:
- Daily 12pm-12am
Editorial Review for Lupa – by Dana Bowen
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.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Look GoodIf 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 DrinkThe 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 GoParties of seven or more must order the tasting menu, which is $60 per person.
User Reviews for Lupa
03/21/2008 Posted by seckert2001
The food was tasty, the service was junior varsity - at best. I would honestly send you to Il Mattone...Lupa is overrated. Period.
Pros: Decent hood.
Cons: Couldn't serve the bottle of wine I ordered...get it together.
03/07/2008 Posted by jk6046
After waiting over a month for my reservation, I had high expectations and was a little disappointed. Although they were tasty, the pasta dishes (we ordered 4 different ones) were lukewarm. The acoustics of the restaurant was horrendous...a larger party next to us were shouting to hear themselves, and there was loud music playing on top of everything. Still, the waiter-service was excellent, and overall, the cost was very reasonable for the type of restaurant.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful
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