Scalinatella

- 201 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065

Tucked away in the heart of Midtown East, Scalinatella is more than just an Italian restaurant; it's a legendary New York City institution. Located at 201 E 61st St, this high-end dining venue has become a well-kept secret among insiders and a beloved destination for those seeking a truly authentic Italian experience. Scalinatella, which fittingly means "little stairway," is a hidden gem in a basement grotto, a detail that adds to its intimate and exclusive atmosphere. The ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy, romantic, and upscale, a rare combination that makes it a prime location for a special occasion or an unforgettable date night.

Scalinatella is renowned for its classic Italian cuisine, with a menu that celebrates tradition and quality ingredients. The restaurant has earned a loyal following, including a number of celebrities who frequent its tables. Its reputation is built on delivering an experience, not just a meal. From the moment you step inside, you are immersed in an atmosphere of old-world charm and attentive service. The focus is on providing a luxurious and memorable evening, which is why reservations are not just accepted, but often required. For those who appreciate fine dining and a timeless ambiance, Scalinatella offers a taste of classic New York that remains a cut above the rest.

Situated at 201 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065, Scalinatella enjoys a prestigious location on the border of Midtown East and the Upper East Side. The restaurant's discreet entrance leads down to a subterranean dining space, adding to its unique and intimate feel. Its central location makes it accessible from various parts of the city. While the restaurant itself does not have a dedicated parking lot, there are paid street parking options and public garages available in the surrounding neighborhood. For those who rely on public transportation, the restaurant is conveniently located within walking distance of several subway lines and bus routes, making it easily reachable from all parts of Manhattan.

The dining experience at Scalinatella is designed to be exceptional from start to finish.

• Reservations Required: To ensure a smooth and personalized experience, reservations are highly recommended, and for dinner, they are often required. The restaurant's popularity means there can be a wait even with a reservation, so planning ahead is key.
• Dine-in, Takeout, and Delivery: Scalinatella offers the classic dine-in experience, with its renowned table service. For added convenience, takeout and delivery services are also available, including curbside pickup.
• Full-Service Dining: The restaurant offers a full-service dining experience for lunch and dinner, complete with a bar onsite.
• Amenities: Patrons have access to a full bar, a well-maintained restroom, and comfortable seating.
• Payments: The establishment accepts all major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a seamless transaction.

These services, combined with the restaurant's exclusive atmosphere, create a refined and effortless dining experience.

Scalinatella is celebrated for several key features and highlights that set it apart from other Italian restaurants in the city.

• Exceptional Wine List: A major highlight is the restaurant's great wine list, featuring a diverse selection of Italian and international wines that perfectly complement the menu. The knowledgeable staff is skilled at making recommendations to enhance your meal.
• Authentic and High-Quality Cuisine: The food is consistently praised for being delicious and of high quality. While prices may be on the higher end, customers often feel the experience is worth the cost. The menu features classic Italian comfort food with a refined touch, with a focus on fresh ingredients.
• Unique Ambiance: The atmosphere is a significant draw. Described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, the intimate basement setting feels like a hidden gem, providing a private and elegant dining experience.
• Attention to Detail: The service is often described as great and very attentive. The staff, some of whom have been with the restaurant for decades, are dedicated to providing a personalized and memorable experience for every guest. The practice of preparing some dishes, like pasta and fish, tableside adds to the personal touch.
• Celebrity Endorsement: The restaurant has been endorsed by celebrities like Stanley Tucci and Blake Lively, who have publicly praised it as their favorite Italian restaurant in New York City. This adds to its mystique and reputation as a must-visit spot.
• Menu Flexibility: Patrons report that the restaurant is often willing to create dishes not on the menu, showcasing the chefs' skill and the staff's dedication to customer satisfaction.

These features combine to create a truly luxurious and memorable dining experience.

For reservations and inquiries, you can contact Scalinatella using the information below.

Address: 201 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065, USA

Phone: (212) 207-8280

What is truly worth choosing about Scalinatella is the complete and immersive dining experience it offers. While some have noted concerns about the lack of price transparency for "special offerings," the quality of the food itself is consistently celebrated. The complimentary zucchini and seafood salad to start is a well-loved touch that sets the tone for a fantastic meal. The pasta dishes are a highlight, with options like the pasta medley and tartar dishes receiving high praise. The staff's willingness to create a pasta sampler or other custom dishes demonstrates a commitment to a truly bespoke experience.

The atmosphere is another major reason to choose Scalinatella. The romantic and cozy setting makes it an ideal choice for a special occasion. The fact that it's a known favorite among New York's elite and celebrities only adds to its allure. The extensive wine list is a major bonus for wine lovers, offering a perfect pairing for any dish. Despite some mixed reviews regarding pricing practices, the core of the Scalinatella experience—the food, the service, and the intimate atmosphere—is consistently rated as exceptional. For those who are willing to splurge on a truly luxurious and classic New York Italian meal, Scalinatella remains a top-tier destination that delivers on its promise of an unforgettable dining experience.

Scalinatella

201 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065, USA