Piccola Cucina

NEW YORK, USA

As the name suggests, Piccola Cucina is a little Italian restaurant in Soho, offering a variety of Sicilian classics. With only a handful of tables, the ambience is very cosy and laidback, ideal for a casual lunch with friends.

From the moment you set foot in this establishment, the extremely welcoming - and rigorously Italian- staff makes it a mission of their own to put you at ease. Sweeping nimbly between tables, they will make recommendations and check on you throughout the meal to ensure you’re having a positive dining experience.

Now down to actual business: the food, which was just excellent! As a party of five and knowing how popular this spot is (currently topping at #1 on TripAdvisor!), we had made a reservation over a month in advance. Once seated, we ordered some prosecco and wine by the glass, as well as few starters to share and a variety of pasta based mains.

The vitello tonnato came with a bit of a twist to it - a sprinkle of chopped olives and rucola leaves. Two of the antipasti highlights were the burrata, authentic and creamy on a bed of bright and juicy cherry tomatoes (or cigliegine), as well as the tasty parmigiana (a traditional aubergine bake).

Most main courses are served up in large iron pans (although these have a raised bottom, beware!). My favourites? The ravioli al ragù di cinghiale (ricotta and spinach stuffed ravioli in wild-boar ragu) and the pasta alla norma, as you would expect from a restaurant that labels itself as Sicilian. The spaghetti alle vongole were very well presented, although the meat based dished were the true winners here.

And if you’re concerned about the bill, show up for lunch on weekdays and pay as little as $10 for all dishes!

Address: 184 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Website: https://www.piccolacucinagroup.com