Il Totano

- 154 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011

For New Yorkers seeking a culinary experience that feels both innovative and deeply comforting, Il Totano is a true discovery. Located in the vibrant West Village, this Italian restaurant, helmed by the acclaimed "Top Chef" winner Harold Dieterle, offers a fresh perspective on Southern Italian coastal cuisine. Il Totano, which translates to "flying squid," is designed to transport you to the shores of the Amalfi Coast with its stunning interior and a menu that focuses on the highest-quality seafood, including a unique dry-aging process for fish. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite for its ability to blend impeccable service with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where every dish, from the standout crudo to the perfectly crafted cocktails, is a testament to culinary excellence and passion.

Il Totano is conveniently located at 154 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of the West Village, a neighborhood celebrated for its charming, tree-lined streets and world-class dining. Its central location makes it an ideal spot for a dinner date or a special occasion. While the provided information does not explicitly mention accessibility features like a wheelchair accessible entrance, its location and modern design suggest a commitment to a welcoming environment. The restaurant is easily reachable by public transportation and is a great destination to build a memorable night around in one of New York's most iconic neighborhoods.

Il Totano provides a focused and high-quality dining experience, prioritizing the in-house service to ensure every guest receives personalized attention.

• Dine-in: The primary service option, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the restaurant's stunning design and culinary offerings.
• Takeout: For those who wish to enjoy the flavors of Il Totano from the comfort of their home, takeout is available.
• Table Service: The staff is noted for being "on top of the game," providing "impeccable" and "excellent" service that makes you feel "charmed as if you were at home."
• Accepts Reservations: To guarantee a table, particularly for a special night out, Il Totano accepts and recommends making a reservation.

The emphasis on dine-in service, coupled with a warm and attentive staff, highlights the restaurant's dedication to creating a truly special experience for its guests.

Il Totano stands out from the crowd of Italian restaurants in NYC with several key features that make it a truly unique destination.

• Crudo and Dry-Aged Fish: The crudo menu is a definite highlight, with customers raving that it is "out of this world." The restaurant specializes in dry-aging fish, a technique that enhances flavor and texture, resulting in dishes that are both a visual and gastronomic delight. The "Kona kamapachi" and the calamari crudo are particularly praised.
• Stunning Interior Design: The design of the restaurant is a major feature, with one review noting that they "absolutely loved the design." It evokes a "1970s Italian yacht party" aesthetic with bold colors, playful décor, and large rattan ceiling fixtures, all designed to transport guests to the Amalfi Coast.
• Exceptional Staff and Management: The service is consistently described as impeccable and welcoming. A review specifically calls out the manager, Andres, for making a date "unforgettable," highlighting the personal and attentive care that guests receive.
• Curated Beverage Program: Il Totano offers a carefully selected range of beverages, including a great wine list, an assortment of beers, and a full bar with expertly crafted cocktails. The non-alcoholic options are also noted as being "very nice."
• Unique Menu Items: Beyond the crudo, the menu includes standout dishes like a "crispy skin" dry-aged branding and a "good" bolognese pasta. For dessert, the tiramisu sundae is a must-try, with one customer even saying they would "come back for sure" just for it.

To book your reservation or to learn more about this incredible Italian restaurant, here is the contact information for Il Totano.

Address: 154 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 229-0222

For the best experience, especially for a romantic evening or a special celebration, it is highly recommended to call ahead and secure a reservation.

In a city saturated with Italian restaurants, Il Totano distinguishes itself with its unwavering commitment to excellence and a truly unique concept. The most compelling reason to choose this restaurant is the food itself. While some may find certain dishes to be on par with others in the city, the standout items—especially the seafood—are described as "out of this world." The focus on crudo and the innovative dry-aging process for fish is a unique feature that sets it apart, offering flavors and textures that are "hard to compare in the city." The Kona kamapachi, for instance, was so good it had a customer "licking the plate clean," a clear sign of an unforgettable dish. The dessert, particularly the tiramisu sundae, also receives high praise and is a reason in itself to return.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere and service are what transform a meal at Il Totano into a cherished memory. The design, described as beautiful and romantic, creates a mood that is perfect for a date night. The staff's hospitality is a significant highlight, with customers feeling "charmed" and "at home." This level of personal and attentive service makes guests feel like they are being welcomed into someone’s home, not just another restaurant. This is particularly valuable in a fast-paced city like New York.

Finally, Il Totano is a place that feels special and exclusive, yet still accessible. It's the kind of place you'd add to your "matches collection of favorite restaurants in the world." The combination of a highly skilled chef, a stunningly designed space, and an attentive team makes every visit feel like a special occasion. It's the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality Italian meal that is both factually excellent and emotionally resonant, a true gem in the heart of New York City.

Il Totano

154 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011, USA