When the wind whips through the skyscrapers and snow lines the city sidewalks, many New Yorkers find themselves yearning for a getaway (Italy, perhaps?). With Saint Theo’s, a chic Italian spot in the West Village, city-dwellers need not stray too far from home.
Not unlike other restaurants, diners are greeted by the hostess upon arrival. The similarities end there. The ornate emerald stand is left behind only for restaurant-goers to be whisked away to their seats at one of the round tables in the middle of the dining room, or to a posh leather banquette lining the perimeter.
After getting situated at the table, it’s no longer a secret as to why “buzzy” always comes to mind when describing Saint Theo’s. The décor is curated to evoke feelings of dreamy European nostalgia: beachy black-and-white portraits of attractive young men and women line the brightly-painted walls, as do vintage film and liquor posters. Funky yet discernable tunes pulsate through the speakers while those at tables sip expertly-crafted cocktails from the gold-hued paneled bar. Here, dinner is so much more than “just” dinner…it’s being out at dinner.
Expect a refreshed menu featuring unique takes on traditional coastal cuisine — which Italian native and Michelin-star experienced new Executive Chef Diego Negri prepares using ingredients sourced from Owner Robert Goldman’s family farm. You may recall the Seabass Linguine with dill, la passata, and garlic oil from all over your Instagram feed, but there are many other dishes that deserve the same recognition.
The appetizer Polpette comprises breaded beef meatballs in a delicious fig jus sauce (needless to say, it will have you booking a table for the following week right on the spot). Savor every bite of the main course, whether it’s the Branzino or Saffron Risotto. Definitely do not skip dessert — the Hazlenut Budino — dark chocolate crémeux, hazelnuts, and a delicious caramel sauce — is to die for, and the Affogato is the best you’ll ever taste (on this side of the Atlantic, at least).
Before heading out the door, grab a nightcap at Venice Bar, the 20-seat speakeasy hidden in plain sight off of the main dining room by a burgundy velvet curtain.
Top Takeaways:
Location: West Village, New York City
Cuisine: Italian
Price Point: $$$
Takes reservations?: Yes
The vibe: An upscale, trendy Italian restaurant with striking decor and fun music in New York City’s buzzy West Village neighborhood.
Our favorite thing on the menu: The Mozzarella in Carrozza comprising fried mozzarella, raw tomato sauce, and mustard leaf was the appetizer we can’t stop thinking about.
The attire based on the vibe: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?: Lunch – Saturdays & Sundays from 12 pm – 3 pm; Dinner – Seven days a week from 5 pm – 11 pm.
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