Piccola Cucina

A closet-sized Sicilian dining room where the truffle shavings fly generously and the pasta is rolled out steps from your table.

The tables sit close enough that you'll catch the garlic and butter drifting from the open kitchen before your antipasti even arrives. Portions run generous, the wine list leans confidently Southern Italian, and the tartufo dishes justify the reputation that keeps this SoHo spot booked out weeks in advance. Go hungry, go patient, and don't skip the tiramisu.

Best for: Date nights and celebratory dinners with someone who appreciates unhurried, hands-on Italian cooking