Vento

Vento

Owner

A newcomer to the see-and-be-scene, Vento, Italian for "wind", has swept away gallery-goers, critics and neighbors alike in search of a dining and drinking destination that's more than just a gust of hot air.

Named a noteworthy newcomer by Zagat, and "a remarkably good Italian eatery" by the NY Post's Steve Cuozzo, Vento features casual, regional Italian fare that packs 'em in.

The location in the Meatpacking District offers prime people-watching in the outdoor cafe in warm weather, and exposed brick walls, wooden beams and friendly staff make the cold weather more pleasant.

For a nightcap after dinner head down to Level V, the sultry spot below Vento that Citysearch calls "pure, decadent fun".

Allison Austin

Citysearch

The Scene
Bare brick walls, rough wood beams and a profusion of windows create an airy oasis during earlier hours; as evening wears on, the dining rooms fill with a swankier cocktail crowd. Service is casual and friendly, but expect follies even during less busy times.

The Food
The snacky Italian menu is full of crowd pleasers, the best of which are the wood-fired pizzas: thin, charred crusts topped with seared wild mushrooms and truffle oil, or pancetta and radicchio. Pair them with full-flavored rosemary- and orange-marinated prawns and a salad of fava beans, asparagus and romano for a light supper. Skipping the homemade pastas, however, is a mistake, especially the decadent fettuccine with braised duck and herbed ricotta. Among entrees, the lamb sausage with broccoli rabe and fried sage, and the grilled swordfish with prosciutto and olive tapenade stand out. The piquant lemon tart is the perfect ending.