Bar Stuzzichini
928 Broadway, New York, NY
Even before we reached media mogul/baller status here at Immaculate Infatuation, Bar Stuzzichini has always welcomed us with VIP treatment. While we like to believe that this is a direct result of our indelible charm and a general awareness that we would soon be making it rain, we will concede that the place is usually half empty. That said, I personally have had experiences visiting a restaurant on a slow night and being treated like a Swine Flu patient (see Shang), and also to be fair, the dining room at Bar Stuzz is pretty large. What really makes Bar Stuzzichini a staple though are a few superstar dishes, a well priced wine list, and a varied menu that has both small plates and entree size portions with something for everyone at the table. Put it all together and you’ve got the perfect spot for a large group meal, or just to stop in and feel like you own the joint.
Food Rundown:
Stuzzichini Misti
This is the way to start your meal at Bar Stuzzichini. Choose from three small plates on the menu, and you’ll probably want to throw a few a la carte. My recommendations are as follows:
-
Mozzarella di Bufala
Excellent fresh made Mozzarella. -
Arancini
Cheesy fried risotto balls. Enough said. -
Carciofi
Halved and fried small artichokes. Squeeze some lemon over the plate and dive in. -
Polpo
Grilled octopus. I recommend trying this even if you have previously not been a fan of octopus. This one is tender and not the slightest bit rubbery. -
Involtini
Grilled eggplant with buffalo ricotta. Amazing, and one of the many great vegetarian options. -
*Note
The small plate salumi and cheese options are also very good, though the dishes listed above are more satisfying in my opinion.
Maccheroni alla Chitarra
Do not make the mistake of visiting Bar Stuzzichini and not ordering this. Fresh long pasta in a pistachio and lemon cream sauce that is likely the caloric equivalent of a Krispy Kreme donut pasta.
Gnocchi all’Amatriciana
This is one of the better gnocchi dishes in the city. Light and fluffy gnocchi in a tomato, onion, chili and pork jowl (bacon but better) sauce.
Branzino Arrosto
Pan-seared branzino in a mushroom ragu, this is a good entrre and the better of the two fish dishes on the menu.
*Note
This rundown is typically how I order for a group of four. After several visits, it became clear that one order of the Maccheroni is not adequate for any more than two to share, so plan on a few orders if you’re rolling deep.
