Grotto
A charming little den of excellent Italian food.
(347) 694-4221
100 Forsyth St
(at Broome Street and Grand Street)
New York,
NY
10002
40.7184
-73.9927
Neighborhoods: Lower East Side, Downtown
What People Are Saying About Grotto
The Owner
Grotto
Owner
Hidden on the fringes of the Lower East Side and Chinatown, this cozy subterranean Italian Restaurant is always filled with scents of delight. Charming and romantic, it is inspired by memories of "La Grotto del Vino" on the Italian island of Ischia. The owner/chef has a delicate hand, preparing recipes passed down from her Grandmother and adding a bit of her own modern flare. In order to find this well kept secret look for the warm red light Grotto sign that adds to the already spectacular atmosphere.
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
This aptly named osteria is neatly tucked between brick walls on a quiet street, and given a cozy glow with red lights and other conscientious detailing. Just a few tables and a full bar area fit into the narrow basement space. The small staff is knowledgeable and very friendly.
The Food
Grotto's chef has a sure, delicate hand, turning out dishes with discrete flavors that harmonize splendidly. An appetizer of crostini topped with chunky shrimp salad is smoky and complex; another starter of potato croquettes is likewise delicious and subtle. The restaurant's outdoor grill is used to excellent effect, producing highbrow dishes like perfectly medium-rare grilled tuna with spicy chard, and lowbrow plates like a dense, ultra-flavorful hamburger. An excellent beef pizzaiola abounds with tomato tang, and black linguine arrabbiata is amply portioned and piquant. Lackluster desserts are the single disappointment.
User Reviews
happygirlsss
June 28, 2009
TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO READ REVIEWS FOR REAL AND HONEST FEEDBACK PLEASE BEWARE!!!!! You do not have to be Einstein to work out that the positive reviews of this DISGUSTING place are written by the owners and management. The fact that 7 'rave' reviews are written on the same day (APRIL 13) is more than a flag to this being the case. Me, I want this kind of website to work as it should - as a medium providing true and honest advice to people, and not as shameless advertising for a place that no one should pay a cent to go to! DO NOT BE FOOLED! If you want to be treated badly, eat bad food, endure the worst service in NYC then Grotto really is for you. For anybody with even slightly discerning taste, please take my advice and go ANYWHERE else. It will undoubtedly be better than this smelly foul basement they call a restaurant. AND PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE write REAL reviews so that people are not fooled into giving these disgusting people your money!! They do not deserve it!
read full review
saoirse78
April 26, 2009
Cozy little spot in the lower east side, hidden a little below street level. The kitchen turns out what could be called modern Italian - well executed, bright flavors that occasionally veering off into other regions of the Mediterranean. Nothing groundbreaking, but I can appreciate the simplicity that allows the ingredients to shine and the ability to consistently turn out solid food. Good accompanying cocktail menu and fun, attentive staff round out a solid 4 out 5.
read full review
nomnomnom
April 26, 2009
there is something special about this place and it all starts with your descent down those steep stairs beneath the glowing sign. it's kinda dark at first but that's all apart of the beauty of the place, like you are leaving that noisy pushy street level NYC behind and now are in a place you can relax and enjoy yourself. The staff is top notch here: informed, friendly, courteous, there when you need them and away when you dont. the food here is also very very good and the cocktails are amazing. it's a great place to go escape by yourself, bring a romantic date to or hang out in their nice patio garden with friends. i dont think there's anywhere in nyc that compares to the grotto experience! have fun and enjoy!
read full reviewThe Details on Grotto
What to Drink:
The Primitivo, a strong and dark Italian red made from the zinfandel grape, is an excellent option at $6 per glass.
When To Go:
On Tuesday nights special guest chefs prepare four-course meals for $29.
What to Drink:
The Primitivo, a strong and dark Italian red made from the zinfandel grape, is an excellent option at $6 per glass.
When To Go:
On Tuesday nights special guest chefs prepare four-course meals for $29.
Message from Grotto
- Authentic Italian Cuisine
- Daily Specials
- Exquisite Wine List
Hidden on the fringes of the Lower East Side and Chinatown, this cozy subterranean Italian Restaurant is always filled with scents of delight. Charming and romantic, it is inspired by memories of "La Grotto del Vino" on the Italian island of Ischia. The owner/chef has a delicate hand, preparing recipes passed down from her Grandmother and adding a bit of her own modern flare. In order to find this well kept secret look for the warm red light Grotto sign that adds to the already spectacular atmosphere.
