Altesi Downtown

Location: 200 Spring St New York, NY 10012

After seeing a video online of the beautiful fried Mozzarella at Altesi, I booked a reservation for dinner on Valentine's Day.

My boyfriend and I arrived on time for our reservation and were immediately sat at our table. The staff were wearing masks and were very welcoming. I was also very happy with their music playlist- which consisted of some of the best love songs from the 90's and early 2000's. We did, however, feel slightly cramped in the table we were sat at because it was in the corner of the restaurant. Luckily, the table next to us was empty most of the time so it wasn't a deal-breaker for our stay.

They provided a pre-fixed dinner menu, a wine menu and cocktail menu so there were plenty of options. For drinks we ordered the Lychee Martini and an original Mojito. Both were delicious and strong! For appetizers, we ordered the Mozzarella in Carozza (Traditional fried Napolitano mozzarella in a tomato cream sauce) & Classic Caesar Salad. The fried mozzarella was crispy on the outside and the mozzarella tasted fresh. It was a nice starter, and is perfect for pictures, but I do wish it was a bit saltier. The Caesar was simple, delicious and well-dressed. I loved the freshly shaved Parmesan and homemade dressing.

For our meals, I went with the Gnocchi con Melanzana Arrosta (Potato dumplings with roasted eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella). The gnocchi was noticeably handmade and perfectly cooked. I really enjoyed the rustic flavor and the melted mozzarella was the perfect touch. On the other hand, my boyfriend was a little indecisive with his dinner choice, so he asked our waiter for a suggestion. He was offered the Braised Short Ribs with Truffle Mashed Potatoes and went with that choice. My boyfriend said the ribs were good and tender and that he enjoyed the mashed potatoes. I also tasted his mashed potatoes and thought they were delicious, as well.

Lastly, we decided to end with a dessert and our waiter suggested the Chocolate Mouse Cake. I would rate the cake a 3.5/5 because I think a berry sauce or side of ice cream/gelato would have elevated it. All in all, it was still good and not too sweet.

Overall, dinner at Altesi was delicious and I truly enjoyed my experience. Next time I stop by, it will definitely be for Brunch!

Rating: ★★★★☆