We met in the West Village at one of the Keith McNally Restaurant Group’s locations for lunch and catch up. It was my first time at Morandi, not my friend’s; it won’t be my last as the food and service were both good, just like Minetta Tavern, Balthazar and Pastis!

Don’t miss the Insalata di Cavolini di Bruxelles, shaved fresh Brussels sprouts, diced apple, bacon bites and grated Parmesan lightly coated in a cider dressing ($21).

Our server knew we were sharing everything, so he had the kitchen split the perfectly cooked — al dente — housemade mafalde pasta. Nice touch. It came tossed with sweet sausage chunks, garlicky broccoli rabe (I’d always like more!) and ricotta salata. Wished they had added more veggies and less cheese, as it was a tad too salty for me ($24).

Espresso and more conversation completed our meal.

I recommend a visit to this upscale-casual Italian restaurant.

Morandi
West Village
211 Waverly Pl,
New York, NY
(212) 627-7575
morandiny.com/