5 of us were heading to Katz Deli for the first time early Sunday afternoon and decided we should grab a cocktail before we eat a big pastrami sandwich. Seeing the sigh for Taverna Di Bacco just down the street we thought that would be a convenient place. We didn't realize at that time how lucky that random choice was.
It appeared they were just opening for the day and we were the first customers to pop in. We were greeted warmly by the owner/chef, Maurizio and his wife. It didn't take long to realize that this place was special, pretty much as soon we found out the bloody mary's are made from scratch (he makes his own tomato juice!!!) and fresh squeezed orange juice as well. Then we started talking about food and could instantly tell how much Maurizio loves to cook. After hearing him talk about his passion for cooking and then finding out he won an episode of Chopped on the Food Network we decided we better try something. We were a little indecisive so he offered to throw a few things together for us. All we could say was WOW!!! It was amazing! Steak tartar, meatballs, pasta, brussel sprouts and a dessert platter like the one he did to win on Chopped. We had some serious foodies in our group that have eaten at some really nice restaurants. We all agreed that the food at Taverna Di Bacco was up there with the very best of them, if not the very top.
We'll 3 hours later there was no need for Katz Deli anymore and we were all completely fine with that. We had such a great time as we talked with Maurizio and his wife. They were so much fun and you could really see how much they love what they do. The food was awesome and the cocktails and wine that went along with them were spot on. We were very pleased with the price as well as we weren't quite sure what to expect as we let Maurizio make most of our decisions.
This is an absolute must go anytime we make back from Chicago to NYC! I highly recommend everyone "pop in" like we did (or call and rsvp) and see how great this place and the owners are. Thank you Taverna Di Bacco! We will back.
Stephanie LaRue Stanley
+5
We had an early dinner before flying home. This place was so good, and the owner and wait staff were so friendly. Food was amazing! I had the pollo dish that won on Chopped. Highly recommend it! My husband had the prawns with homemade linguine. Fabulous!
This is a hidden gem. Every single person working here cannot do better than what they already do.
They have a certain warmth that makes them unique.
Food options are limited but enough. Wine pairings are great. Ask anyone if you are not sure what goes well with your order and they'll be happy to give you a couple of tastings. Overall great food, people and ambience. When genuine people come together, it changes your experience.
Not to forget, the food is very authentic tasting.
Been here a few times and we enjoy sitting at the bar for dinner. The food is always good and service is friendly and helpful. The black squid ink seafood pasta was our favorite on our most recent visit.
The food and service were excellent!
The atmosphere, not so much. Extremely loud, and they packed us in like sardines. Hot... It was very hot for being 40° outside. Thankfully, we were next to the window and our server didn't mind that we opened it wide.
We had a lovely time at this warm and inviting family-owned restaurant. Everyone we met was so kind and hospitable, service was great, ambiance was lovely. Food was good; fresh Italian. Bruchetta was unusual, one half is sweet not savory, vongole was too salty that day, but I might try it again, clams were manila and in the shell; the other 2 pasta dishes we got were much enjoyed (one was cacio e pepe). Wine was nice. Cesar was normal, dressing a little light on flavor, steak tartar was good (I'd put it in my top 10 list, and I try that everywhere I go). I would definitely return, there was more to try! I can see how this locale could be a local staple or a nice date restaurant or for a special occasion. If you are looking for a more red sauce, baked or large plate experience, this is probably not going to please you.
Delicious pasta and great service from everyone we spoke to. The place has a very cozy and warm feeling to it. The food was so fantastic we ordered 3 plates for the 2 of us to share. The owner was so nice and came over to speak with us to make sure everything was going well, we spoke for several minutes about Italy and his story.
Stepping into this cozy Italian haven feels like entering an old friend's kitchen. The owner, Mauricio, exudes a vivacious personality that sets the tone for a delightful dining experience. The staff is not just attentive but genuinely nice, making you feel right at home. Whether it's a quick bite or a special occasion you can’t go wrong. Mauricio's personalized tasting menu with wine pairings, upon request, adds a touch of culinary magic. A hidden gem that seamlessly balances warmth and sophistication.
Small restaurant yet BIG flavor! Wow! The chef came over to each table to thank us yet we should have been thanking him. The food is epic!! I’m going back ASAP!!! (And I live in NJ… I’m paying a toll before I even get to the restaurant 😂😂
It was amazing. The owner/ chef personally waited on our table. The food was amazing. They sang Happy Birthday to my husband. We will definitely be back on our next trip.
A fantastic restaurant with great food and a friendly professional staff. For over a decade I have stopped in for a bite to eat, a drink, a business dinner or a family get together, and always had a fun time and awesome food. The owner is totally committed and on site all the time - and runs a tight ship. That is why customers keep coming back...
Warmly greeted by a smiling bartender the moment we walked in. We were able to sit in the back garden area- lovely! Had a wonderful waiter. The food and wine is on point. Three employees in FOH worked as a team- such incredibly wonderful attitudes! The food was cooked with intention and care. Each dish flavorful! I’d definitely recommend this restaurant as one of the all around best in the area.
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