Centro Vinoteca
(212) 367-7470
74 7th Ave S
New York,
NY
10014
40.7321
-74.0037
Neighborhoods: West Village, Downtown
What People Are Saying About Centro Vinoteca
The Editor
Justin Hartung
Citysearch
The Scene
Italian restaurants with rustic decor are a dime a dozen these days. However, this two-story West Village spot opts for glitzy urbanity instead, with inverted-pyramid glass chandeliers and leather everywhere--even the banisters are wrapped in it. Downstairs, women in brightly colored dresses swarm a glittery bar like hungry fish at a coral reef; while the upstairs is cozier, if not much quieter.
The Food
Anne Burrell's supremely confident, modern Italian cooking shows a knack for highlighting fresh produce. From the tapas-like "piccolini" menu, a garlicky Parmesan crust enhances rather than overwhelms the bright flavor of fried cauliflower wedges. Elsewhere, a salad of beets, Thumbelina carrots and pickled radishes induces stoned-bunny ecstasy, broccoli rabe complicates the meaty pleasure of juicy rib-eye with a touch of bitterness, and fennel salad complements a perfectly fried piece of skate crunch by crunch. Fluffy plum crostata with olive oil gelato sends diners into Edenic overdrive.
Hits: For all the commotion of the downstairs bar, it's the refined cuisine that will create the most enduring hubbub.
Misses: The downstairs space isn't roomy enough to accomodate the Meatpacking District crowd the decor attracts.
User Reviews
gmen80
July 01, 2009
Definitely found one of my new favorite spots. The food was fantastic. We went on a tuesday night and got there around 7:30 for drinks first. It was a little quiet when we got there but by 8:30ish or so the whole place was busy and the atmosphere was great. We sat in the downstairs which seemed to have a different vibe from what I can tell of the upstairs. I had the scallops to start which were a special and the lamb for dinner. The lamb was cooked perfectly and very juicy. Service was great. The waiter was very friendly and knowledgeable. Just an overall enjoyable great dinner.
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JDbella
May 01, 2009
There were four of us girls for dinner on my birthday March 28. We walked in and barely had to wait. At the bar, we encountered a plethora of amazing drinks. The bartenders were attentive and even made a newly invented drink. I loved the use of thyme and cucumber in their choice of cocktails. Dinner was devine. The lamb, truffled deviled eggs & other piccolini, and dessert were perfect. We dined upstairs and I loved that room. The atmosphere was dreamy. It was well lighted and the decor is beautiful. Lastly, the service was extremely professional. The manager checked on the tables and our server was very good. I rarely take the time to write reviews though, I dine out often. This restaurant has made the top of my list.
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arts10022
January 05, 2009
Rachel Maddow, why would you eat here? The waiter did not know the wine list (the restaurant was out of our first choice) or the specials. The piccolinis lacked any distinction. The skate and cod were served over the same puddle of mashed potatoes. Everything was fried to an indigestible crisp. To add insult to injury, we were seated between a toddler wielding a beeping electronic toy and a group of people taking flash photos of themselves, their food, and everyone around them. Awful, just awful. We could not get out of this restaurant fast enough. The kitchen and staff have a long way to go in providing an enjoyable environment and cuisine to match.
read full reviewThe Details on Centro Vinoteca
Lunch Spot:
The lunch menu offer panini, pastas and salads.
When to Go:
The breakfast menu, served Monday thru Friday 8am-12pm, includes spins on classic favorites like farro oatmeal and baked eggs with sausage and bean ragu.
What to Drink:
A well-balanced list of Italian wines are available, many by the quartino, and the knowledgeable staff is happy to provide samples.
Group Dining:
For the most private spot in the restaurant, try to reserve the large circular booth at the back of the top floor.
The Extras:
Read up on owners Sasha and Alexei Muniak's other restaurant Gusto.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
People Watching, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar, Bar Scene
