Bacaro

- 136 Division St, New York, NY 10002

Tucked away on a quiet, winding street in the Lower East Side, Bacaro offers New Yorkers a truly authentic escape. This Italian restaurant is a hidden gem that feels like a discovery from the moment you step inside. The name "Bacaro" is a nod to the traditional Venetian wine bars, or "bacari," which are known for serving small plates called "cichetti" alongside an excellent glass of wine. This establishment beautifully captures that Venetian spirit, creating an atmosphere that is at once cozy, romantic, and effortlessly trendy. The ambiance is key to its charm; with soft lighting and a rustic, exposed-brick interior, it's a place that feels a world away from the bustling city streets.

Bacaro is a perfect destination for various occasions. It's a popular choice for a date night, with its intimate and romantic downstairs cellar space often feeling like a private hideaway. It’s also an ideal spot for a group of friends, with large communal tables that invite conversation and shared dining. As a proud women-owned business, Bacaro contributes to the rich diversity of the New York City food scene. It’s also identified as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, fostering a welcoming environment for everyone. This inclusive and inviting atmosphere, combined with a menu of traditional Italian comfort food, makes Bacaro a beloved local spot for both New Yorkers and tourists alike.

## Location and Accessibility

Bacaro is conveniently located at **136 Division St, New York, NY 10002**, on a quiet block that curves just south of Canal Street. Its prime Lower East Side location makes it a unique find, sitting between the vibrant energy of Chinatown and the trendy nightlife of the Lower East Side. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway lines within walking distance, including the F, B, D, J, M, and Z trains at the Grand St and Delancey St-Essex St stations.

For those driving, both free and paid street parking options are available in the vicinity, though parking in this area can be competitive. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a **wheelchair-accessible entrance**, **wheelchair-accessible restrooms**, and **wheelchair-accessible seating**. For those who prefer to dine al fresco, Bacaro also offers **outdoor seating**, which is a great option for enjoying a meal on a pleasant evening. While the restaurant has two floors, with the lower level being particularly intimate, the main floor can feel a bit tight, especially during busy hours. It’s always a good idea to book a reservation, particularly if you're dining with a group.

## Services Offered

Bacaro provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to different dining needs and preferences.

• **Dine-in and Outdoor Seating**: Guests can choose to dine inside in the cozy, candlelit ambiance or enjoy their meal outside.
• **Delivery and Takeout**: For those who want to savor Bacaro's Italian dishes from the comfort of home, the restaurant offers convenient delivery and takeout services.
• **Dinner and Dessert**: The menu is focused on dinner, with a variety of appetizers, pastas, and entrees, followed by a selection of delicious desserts.
• **Happy Hour**: Bacaro features a happy hour with specials on drinks and food, making it an ideal spot for an early evening outing with friends.
• **Table Service**: The restaurant provides full table service, with an attentive staff dedicated to ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
• **Reservations and Private Dining**: Dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. The venue also features a private dining room, perfect for special events or larger groups.
• **High Chairs**: Bacaro is a family-friendly establishment and provides high chairs for children.

## Features and Highlights

Bacaro's appeal lies in its distinct features that create a memorable experience.

• **Unique Atmosphere**: The restaurant's "underground feeling" and candlelit cellar dining room give it a uniquely romantic and cozy ambiance that transports you away from the city.
• **Great Drinks**: The bar is known for its excellent selection of cocktails, coffee, and a "great wine list" featuring Italian and other international selections.
• **Fast Service**: Despite its popularity, the restaurant is often praised for its fast and efficient service, especially during non-peak times.
• **Venetian-Style Small Plates**: The menu is inspired by Venetian cichetti, offering a variety of small plates (antipasto) and comfort food that are perfect for sharing.
• **Vegan and Vegetarian Options**: The menu is inclusive, with a variety of delicious vegan and vegetarian options available to cater to different dietary needs.
• **Inclusive Space**: As an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, Bacaro is committed to providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for all patrons.
• **Live Music**: On some nights, the venue features live music, adding to the romantic and lively atmosphere.

## Contact Information

For more information, reservations, or to place a takeout order, you can contact Bacaro at:

• Address: 136 Division St, New York, NY 10002, USA
• Phone: (212) 941-5060

## What is Worth Choosing

When you visit Bacaro, the menu offers a delightful array of choices, but some items consistently stand out. The **Spaghetti Nero**, made with cuttlefish ink, is a highlight, praised for its unique flavor and being a worthwhile culinary experience. For a comforting and rich dish, the **Cavatelli** is an excellent choice, and the duck ragu version is a popular favorite. The **Meatballs** are another classic appetizer that comes highly recommended by diners, served with marinara and Pecorino cheese.

The drink selection at Bacaro is just as impressive as the food. The **great wine list** is a standout feature, with a variety of Italian wines that perfectly complement the rustic menu. The **great cocktails** are another reason to visit, offering a perfect way to start your evening. The atmosphere itself is a key part of the experience. The intimate and beautiful setting of the downstairs cellar is perfect for a romantic date or a quiet, memorable evening with friends. While service can be a bit slow during peak busy hours, the overall ambiance and quality of the food and drinks make it a worthwhile destination. The fact that the restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, like the flavorful **Eggplant Marinara** and various salads, ensures that it caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Bacaro is a place that promises a cozy and romantic Italian experience, making it a great addition to your list of must-visit restaurants in New York City.

Bacaro

136 Division St, New York, NY 10002, USA