#InauguralReview #OsteriaNonnino Since 2023 by #VitaRusso and #TonyKavaja #Italian #637HudsonStreet #WestVillage #Manhattan
The majestic Branzino was Peachy's favorite item on her first visit
It's not who you know, it's WHOM YOU KNOW and after sixteen years of exploring the best of Manhattan's dining scene, you have got to be something really special right off the bat to be featured for the first time, and to that end, we believe you should know about Osteria Nonnino, which opened May 30, 2023. Arguably, it's even harder if you are an Italian place because we have been to the most Italian places. Nonnino means grandfather in Italian and Vita is from the Russo Bakery family in Queens which started in 1979 by her parents with roots in Sicily. We were graciously greeted by Owner and Executive Chef Tony Kavaja and his wife Owner Vita Russo. Red sauce and bread were brought out to begin with and they were fresh and welcoming.
There are three salad choices and we began with Insalata Cesare: well-chopped Romaine. shaved Parmigiano Cheese and Crostini formed the classic and we chose to add Chicken, which was a spectacular addition in its glorious tender presentation. In contrast to every other salad, we prefer the Caesar Salads dressed and the dressing was well-applied and we found the Dijon to be highly prevalent. Insalata Tre Colori is composed of Arugula, Endive and Radicchio and the Shrimp we chose to add was warm and inviting. The cherry tomatoes were well-halved. They listened to Ms. Pretty Picky and the dressing was on the side as requested.
Antipasti is also a homage to the classics here, and we chose a springtime favorite: Caprese di Bufala. Note it does look that fantastic in person and we absolutely never edit pictures. Fresh imported buffalo mozzarella from Campania is joined by fresh tomatoes and roasted peppers, and all components were entirely fresh. Pork, beef and veal all team up in equal proportion to create the delicious Polpette e Ricotta joined by of course tomato sauce, fresh ricotta and crostini. It was cooked just right and you can see it cut through below. This is our first visit to Osteria Nonnino and it seats 65 inside plus 25 outside.
The pasta section is absolutely commanding and they make the pasta on premises. Along with Tony, his uncle Giovanni Kavaja is a Chef at Osteria Nonnino and based on our one experience so far we find their pasta prowess excellent. The whole menu is changed four times a year with specials updated. The atmosphere here is warm and comforting and the pasta reflects that. Every day they make the pasta fresh. We loved all three pastas we tried. Cacio e Pepe set the bar high, especially in presentation in the cheese of course. Prepared tableside indoor only, the bucatini pasta with fresh black pepper and pecorino cheese was elevated further with Black Truffles sliced in front of us.
Rigatoni di Nonnino is obviously named after the venue, and we are always interested in dishes named after a place. Short, wide pasta tubes dance among sausage in tantalizing spicy vodka sauce. A must-try!
Peachy's favorite pasta however was the Orecchiette Con Bufala. We loved the exquisite, delicate nature of the ear-shaped pasta and the terrifically patterned diced bufala mozzarella which luxuriously sparkled in the vodka sauce. Every bite was decadent and we commend the originality.
The real star of the show here was without a doubt the Branzino alla Griglia. Peachy prefers a whole fish absolutely always in contrast to a slice, and this one was wonderfully grilled. Broccoli Rabe plays hide and seek with you and you will find it underneath. The light, superb flavoring of the fish was fresh and amazingly flavored and the fish itself was high-quality. Everyone knows Peachy is personally close to Chicken Parm, and this edition is convincing.
Osteria Nonnino impressed us on our first visit and we look forward to seeing them keep up the great work!
Their website tells us:
Our Story
Welcome to our family!
"Nonnino" in Italian means grandpa in a more affectionate way. We named our Osteria in honor our beloved grandfathers which for us were the best cooks in our hearts.
Nestled in the heart of New York, where the West Village meets the Meatpacking District. Founded by Restauranteur and Chef Tony Kavaja, who grew up in the north of Italy, Lanzo Di Torino, and his wife, Vita Russo, from the charming south of Italy, Villagrazia Di Carini, Sicily, Osteria Nonnino presents a delightful Italian Fusion that captures the essence of both regions. Immerse yourself in our cozy and inviting atmosphere, including a charming outdoor area that transports you to the charm of Italy. Ciao, A Presto!
