BABBO RISTORANTE

One of my favorite Italian dining experiences is located in the West Village and definitely needs a month in advance reservation for the 90 seat eatery. Babbo, one of Mario Batali’s claims to fame, is well worth the wait with it’s exceptional menu, service and standard of excellence.

Appetizers include, Marinated Gulf Shrimp with Cardoons, Budding Chives and a Jalapeño Vinaigrette which was a shear delight to my taste buds. Everything from the plating, to the vast choice of wines, down to the elegant and sophisticated stemware will delight and inspire your dining experience. Another gem are the Marinated Fresh Sardines with Caramelized Fennel and Lobster Oil.

Entrees are livened with fresh and intriguing ingredients such as Wild Striped Bass with “Passato di Zucca” and Chorizo Vinaigrette, Grilled Quail with “Scorzonera alla Romana” and Saba, Duck with Rainbow Chard, Babbo Pancetta and Beet Vinaigrette, and Whole Grilled Branzino with Radicchio in Pancetta and Lemon Oregano Jam ). The pasta selections are my favorite including, Black Tagliatelle with Parsnips and Pancetta, Pappardelle Bolognese and Garganelli with “Funghi Trifolati”.Top the meal off with a selection of decadent sweets such as Warm Apple and Fig Brioche with Crabapple Jelly and Cinnamon Gelato, Saffron Panna Cotta with Poached Quince, Pink Peppercorns and Quince Sorbetto and Chocolate Hazelnut Cake with Orange Sauce and Hazelnut Gelato.

Unlike some eateries which try to bombard you with integrating too many ingredients on one plate, Babbo inspires your palette effortlessly with exceptional selections and marriages of flavors.