02/02/09

Cold and Unfriendly

by epratt

The space is nice, especially considering that it's new construction; and someone involved in the build-out clearly had taste and an eye for detail. That's pretty much all the positives I can come up with for this place. The menu is not very interesting and the choices are limited. The food is actually pretty good, if standard, although not worth what they're charging.

The bigger problem is that they don't appear to like their customers. An earlier reviewer said the clientele is mostly local . . . are you kidding? I've never seen anyone from the neighborhood in there. If I were a new restaurant, I would throw my doors open and do everything I could to welcome regulars and establish an evening bar scene. Instead, it feels like they are exclusively for guests of the hotel and only begrudgingly serve non-hotel customers. They may be trying for a members-only feeling or something. They may be thinking if you want a lively bar scene you can go to TriBeCa Grill. But why turn people away? It comes across as cold and uninviting and just not a friendly place.

I've eaten there twice and, I'll repeat, the food is not bad. But the overall experience left me cold and unhappy to have spent the money.

• Pros: Not crowded
• Cons: Cold, uninviting, overpriced, hostile to locals

07/26/08

Old school elegance with wonderful ambience

by tribecagal11

Loved it so much went twice in a week. Delicious food and great service. Love the curved bar and interesting crowd, mostly locals.

• Pros: Ambience, food
• Cons: Busy, can be noisy

07/20/08

Authetic & Exceptional Italian Cuisine and Gracious Service From the Moment One Enters

by peterstamelman

Ago is quite simply the best new Italian restaurant in NYC. The food is authentic and delicious, the presentation is elegant, the service is impeccable and the interior and decor are, without being overstated about it, rustically charming. Ignore Frank Bruni - every restaurant, even 3-starred Michelin champions - have their off-nights. Or maybe Mr. Bruni had an off-night: his review was far too harsh. Whether one eats at the welcoming bar or at one of the spacious tables, the comfort level is high and the service is attentive without being overbearing. I lived and worked in Italy for five years and can attest to chef Agostino's skill and light touch in all of his dishes, especially those from his native Tuscany. In addition, the wine list is superb and reasonable. This restaurant is a winner.

• Pros: Superb food and wine, exceptional service, rustic, comfortable ambiance.
• Cons: None