Emporio

REVIEW

July 8, 2010


CUISINE: Italian, Pizza
NEIGHBORHOOD: Nolita, Soho

 

231 Mott St. at Prince St.
(p) 212-966-123

You probably haven't heard of Emporio. It hasn't received much press, save for its un-hyped inclusion in New York Mag's Top 20 Pizzas of the Moment last June, but that doesn't mean it's not packing some serious heat. And thanks to the lack of buzz, you can expect to be seated right away, sans reservation — something to be cherished in this city.

 

Designed to look like a twenties-era Roman grocery – white tile, rustic wooden paneling and bags of pasta stacked high on shelves — Emporio has a relaxed, welcoming feel strengthened by affectionate Italian staff. CONT'D

 

 

Though known for their pizzas, I wouldn't stop there. The gazpacho with watermelon, cucumber, basil and cheese managed to be supremely refreshing, even in the 90+ degree weather.  A delicious fava bean salad, garnished with shaved fennel and mint, and enlivened by a fresh squeeze of lemon and good Grana Padano, pleased all.  The pizza was light and crisp, with a brilliant sauce and creamy, irresistible burrata cheese. For entrees, the chicken under a brick was another goodie.  A moist, crispy skinned chicken sat atop a flavorful mound of charred broccoli rabe with a hint of applewood bacon — no complaints there.

From start to finish this place impresses, so much in fact that I considered not writing this review. I'd rather it stay a secret.


Posted in FOOD on July 8, 2010 9:26am by Jena Steinbach | 5 comments



Comments

lyle8:40pm | July 8, 2010

Sauce makes a pizza. Is this place better than Motorino?! I want to go!!

evan3:19pm | July 24, 2010

its also the sister restaurant to Aurora I believe

Alison7:59pm | July 29, 2010

oh miss jenna, this place rocks my socks. i've shared it a bit myself and am sad to say twice i've been turned away due to a fully packed house and bar. so maybe call ahead if its a peak time. this place is the brainchild of three italian friends from rome, florence, and milano (if i remember correctly) ...they are lovely and i'm happy to support their venture! not that they need the help. this place stands on its own merit. from a quick stop for a glass of vino and some pecorino or a full out shebang... GO! :)

Caelii10:18pm | April 27, 2011

BION I'm imrpesesd! Cool post!

Nerice10:52am | April 28, 2011

Kudos! What a neat way of thinnkig about it.


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