Mario Batali can do no wrong. After loving Pizzeria Mozza and Eataly, I wanted to try out Batali’s New York City restaurant, Babbo Ristorante, to see what all the amazing reviews were about. Babbo is on a side street in the West Village,  and it could not be more charming. With a dim and intimate downstairs and an airy and spacious upstairs, Babbo offers a comfortable and private space to dine with friends and family. The food is made from local and fresh ingredients, and the flavors in each dish are incredibly rich. The Mozzarella di Bufala appetizer had the freshest mozzarella I have ever tasted. You definitely will not be disappointed here.

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Setting: Intimate, cozy, and comfortable

Good for: Family dinner, date night, business meetings

What to order: Mozzarella di Bufalawith Ramps and Olio Verde, Black Spaghetti with Rock Shrimp, Spicy Salami Calabrese and  Green Chilies, Pappardelle Bolognese, and Goose Liver Ravioli with Balsamic Vinegar and Brown Butter

Downsides: It can be hard to get a table, so be sure to make a reservation

Recommend: Sharing an appetizer with your friends/family and having your own main dish

{photos by a dash of cinema}