I stepped into da Toscano inside the Iroquois Hotel on 44th Street, and I was not prepared for this absolute level of decadence. One of New York City’s best Italian spots just opened up in Midtown, and it needs to be on your list immediately.
They start you off strong. They are constantly slicing imported Italian meats right table side. I kicked off the feast with warm rosemary focaccia stacked high with prosciutto di Parma, whipped ricotta with honey, and a massive spoon of caviar. Look at that spread! The ideal bite to get things going.
Then came the pasta course. First up was their signature Venetian duck ragù pappardelle. Fresh, house-made pappardelle tossed in a rich, slow-cooked duck ragù and finished with shaved foie gras. Do not skip this pasta when you visit. The flavor depth is insane.
Next was the garganelli verde ragù Bolognese. Bright green garganelli pasta loaded with savory Bolognese ragù and a heavy shower of shaved Parmigiano Reggiano. Pure comfort on a plate.
After that, we got their wildly popular black tagliatelle al limone. Creamy jumbo lump crab meat folded into jet-black squid ink tagliatelle, lemon, scallions, and crunchy garlic breadcrumbs. Squeeze that fresh lemon right over the top. This is easily one of my favorite pasta dishes in all of NYC.
We were not done yet. I could never say no to their sweet Italian sausage orecchiette, cooked down with a vibrant broccoli rabe pesto and pickled cherry peppers. Tossed together, plated, and buried in more shaved parmesan. Unbelievable balance.
For the meat lovers, look at this 12-hour slow-roasted prime rib. Grilled to a perfect medium-rare, served with rich rosemary drippings and garlic butter. Drenched!
If you venture into the back, they have a hidden speakeasy called Lantern’s Keep. It is the perfect spot for a craft cocktail, but they are also serving up serious food. Like their prime rib steak sandwich with whipped beef, melted Fontina cheese, caramelized onions, mushrooms, and a heavy horseradish cream sauce. That bite is outrageous.
Or grab their Bistecca Burger featuring an 8-ounce porcini-rubbed steak patty, melted Fontina, onions, and garlic aioli. Look at how juicy that looks! Stop what you are doing and devour this immediately.
For the grand finale, their mind-blowing lasagna. This masterpiece is packed with meatballs, sausage, hot soppressata, melted cheese, and ditalini pasta. Look at that slice! Who is hungry?