Dell'anima
New York, NY 10014
Phone: (212) 366-6633
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Between West 12th Street and Jane Street
- Directions:
- A, C, E; L at 14th St-8th Ave
- Hours:
- Daily 4pm-2am
Editorial Review for Dell'anima – by Justin Hartung
The Scene
Often the definition of "neighborhood restaurant" stretches to include things like celeb regulars, unattainable reservations and decor that looks like somebody robbed a Pottery Barn. And though the collective resumes at Dell'anima include Le Bernardin, Del Posto and Babbo, this cozy, classy Italian spot seems to have been designed with locals in mind. Brass sconces throw soft light across simple white plaster walls and a centrally located, open kitchen keeps the focus on the food.
The Food
The daily-changing menu offers consistently crowd-pleasing rustic Italian fare. Crusty bruschetta has five topping options: Highlights include whipped salt cod and silky chickpea puree jazzed up with preserved lemon. Risotto comes "alla pilota," a drier style which accentuates the flavors of finocchio salumi, house-made sausage and pecorino romano. Entrees like perfectly pink seared tuna and tender boar with polenta and marscapone are so satisfying, you may not have room left for sweetly decadent zuppa inglese.
Hits: The restaurant's name means "of the spirit," and the gracious staff and refined yet homey fare overflow with it.
Misses: Smoke from the open kitchen can leave lingering memories of the meal in a bad way: smelly clothes.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkJoseph Campanale used to be the sommelier at Babbo, so it's no surprise the all-Italian wine list here is well-chosen. One of the cheaper wines on the list, which tops out at $220, is the Elena Walch Lagrein ($36), a medium-bodied red that pairs well both with pastas and lighter meat dishes.
Where to SitThe back area has a bit more of a private dining feeling, the front feels like an extension of the hopping bar scene, and seats along the open kitchen are the spot for culinary voyeurs to perch.
Outdoor DiningIn warmer months, sidewalk seating is available on the more tranquil West Fourth Street side of the restaurant.
User Reviews for Dell'anima
03/17/2008 Posted by FoodGirll
NYMag names four restaurants as their critic's favorite new restaurants for 2008. My personal favorite, dell'anima has been named as one of these four! The food is truly superb. I eat here with friends quite often, minimum once a week, and we are always trying new things - I cannot even recommend a dish because everything is fabulous.. . .each dish is delicious and uniquely created. This is Italian soul food at it's best. Elegant, yet uncomplicated, chef Gabe is a genius in creating classic Italian food with some unexpected surprises. The dishes are very filling as well. One thing you can not help but notice is the warmth of the young, friendly staff. To say they go out of their way to accomodate you is truly an understatement. They seemed to have as much fun serving and recommending dishes to us, as we have eating them. And, for the most unbelievable wine pairings you've ever had, ask for Joe - the ridiculously young and talented owner/sommelier. (He's 23!). The wine selection is magnificent. It certainly is a big accomplishment to deserve the praise of NYMAG's BEST OF 2008. Dell'anima certainly lives up to the reputation, and I am one lucky lady to welcome this new, (but already becoming legendary) restaurant into my hood.
03/08/2008 Posted by w2cheung
I am greatly impressed by this restaurant. We had a party of 7 last night and ordered different dishes to share. Every single dish was SO delicious. The restaurant although small, has a friendly and intimate ambience. They have a pretty attractive crowd there. Bring a map with you if you don't usually hang out in this area though, it can be a little tough to find.
Pros: the food and the ambience
Cons: a tricky location if you haven't done your homework trying to find it on the map
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