Supper Time

It’s only fitting for my first post to completely expose my favorite NYC eatery despite the risk of further stretching the wait. Supper, an adorable Italian go-to on the Lower East Side, is as close as I’ve come to homemade Italian since living in Florence two summer’s ago. The food is visibly and traditionally prepared directly behind bar-style seats and the ambience is warm and homey, just like Italy’s famous family-run restaurants.

I’m a sucker for the giant, hand-scripted menus, and hear each night’s specials are to die for. My favorite combo is the mozzarella and tomato starter (available on weekends, I know) with a gnocchi entree. Supper serves the best gnocchi I have ever tasted, hands down, and the mozzarella comes as a huge ball of pure cheese. The tomatoes are always fresh and the food’s served warm, right off the pan. You can watch your individual plate being prepared and will melt when you taste the pasta sauces.

I hear the brunch is great, although I’ve only gone for dinner. Supper’s the perfect spot for out-of-town guests. It’s nice, but comfortable, and distinct in a city full of checker table clothed Italian digs. It’s sister restaurants Frank and Lil’ Frankies are just as scrumptious and each unique.

I have to admit the prices are steep, I typically spend about $70 on dinner-for-two with wine, but it’s worth it for a classy night out or a special date. There are also cool rooms downstairs for big parties. I recommend reservations, but the wait is painless when taken in the bar next door. The servers are helpful recommending wine and each table is cozy and candlelit. Note: the music tends to differ from the theme, like pop stations, and it’s cash only.

156 E 2nd St. (off of Ave A)

212.477.7600

supperrestaurant.com

Open 4 pm – 12 am (1 am on Sat)