Spigolo

19 reviews

(212) 744-1100

1561 2nd Ave
New York, NY 10028 40.7749 -73.9542

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Neighborhoods: Midtown, Yorkville

Last updated 4.01.09

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Wonderfully Crafted Food - a Complete Gem

A reservation was absolutely necessary for a late Saturday dinner several weeks ago. The restaurant is tightly packed with two and four top tables ? and a four-stool bar ? all completely full when we arrived after 9:00. We weren?t immediately impressed, or particularly put off, by the decor and lighting, only wished we knew ahead of time to ask for a window table. Wine list is realistic ? with a good range of styles and prices. We opted to start with antipasti of baby octopus and an evening special of char tartare ? both of which were immensely flavorful - delicate and distinct at the same time. The octopus was tender and spiced enough to be lively and interesting but not overkill for a starter, and the char was fresh, light and perfect - if a little on the small side. We each ordered a primi ? one garganelli pasta and one seafood risotto ?del giorno? and were delighted that the main (pasta and rice) courses were as spectacular as the appetizers - simple, delicious and each with subtle flavor twist that made them memorable and all too easy to finish (such as an ingenious smattering of microscopically diced jalapeno in the risotto - fragrant and herblike - it seemed to help pronounce the seafood and cut the rich base at the same time) . We ended with airy and warm apple fritters, a dessert I?d be happy to call breakfast ? afternoon snack or just dessert again and again. I would highly recommend the restaurant ? stick to small groups and be ready for a tight fit and a bit of shouting. If, like we did, you can't seem to leave when dessert is done, try a glass of the camomile infused grappa - it's brilliant!

Pros: Great service, wine list, exceptional food
Cons: crowded, small tables, loud room

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07/04/07

Winning UES Italian

by charlesmstam

I had a positive experience at this restaurant. The food was very good and the service friendly. GIven the lack of good restaurants in the neighborhood, it was very refreshing to eat here. The decor was casual, which seemed out of place given the hefty tabs. Yet the food is worth the price. The menu seemed rather limited to me, but overall a great place on the UES worth making the trip to.

Pros: Excellent Italian Food and Dessert Menu, Friendly Service
Cons: Not Cheap, Service Was Rushed At Times

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11/20/06

Nice ambience, friendly staff

by caro67

I discovered Spigolo with a friend of mine. The place is utterly charming, the staff is friendly, the menu choice is good. We were served quickly (perhaps a little more time could have lapsed between our appetizer and the entree). Food was good, I had the beet salad and it was really tasty, then had fish and that was equally good. I love the fact that the dishes have normal portions, and are not American-size. I will definitely go back.