Is Torrisi Restaurant in New York Overrated or Worth the Hype?
- EH
- 8 hours ago
- 8 min read
Nestled in Manhattan's Nolita neighborhood, Torrisi Bar & Restaurant has quickly become one of NYC's standout dining destinations since opening in December 2022. Is it still worth the hype?
Located at 275 Mulberry Street within the historic Puck Building, this restaurant offers a modern take on Italian and Italian-American cuisine, blending influences from Chinatown and Jewish delis.
Key Highlights:
Cuisine: Italian and Italian-American with unique dishes like Cavatelli with Jamaican Beef Ragu and Capellini Cantonese.
Awards: Earned a Michelin Star in 2023 and praised by The New York Times.
Pricing: Pasta dishes range from $27–$35, with full dining experiences averaging $100 per person.
Dietary Options: Gluten-free, vegetarian, and allergy-friendly offerings available, though not in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Atmosphere: Elegant yet lively, featuring an open kitchen and polished service.
Reservations are highly sought after, with options including the formal dining room, walk-in bar seating, a chef’s table, and a private dining area. The restaurant operates Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, but reservations on Resy fill up fast, so plan ahead.
Read on to discover if Torrisi is overrated, or if it's worth the hype.
Video: Trying the Highest Rated Italian Restaurant in NYC Torrisi
Menu and Dishes
Featured Dishes
Torrisi's menu showcases dishes inspired by New York's rich culinary tapestry. One standout is the Cavatelli with Jamaican Beef Ragu, a bold combination of Italian technique and Caribbean flavors that has diners buzzing. Another highlight is the Capellini Cantonese, featuring lobster prepared with seasonal ingredients and priced according to the market.
For those craving Italian classics, the Maccheroni Amatriciana delivers the comforting taste of Rome with its house-made pasta. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the Raviolini with Prawns & Saffron, where delicate pasta meets vibrant flavors, or the Dover Sole Francese, a dish that blends high-quality fish with Italian-American charm.
Menu Pricing
Pasta dishes fall in the $27–$35 range, while a full dining experience, including market-priced dishes and wine pairings, typically averages around $100 per person. With its elevated offerings, Torrisi is often reserved for special occasions by its patrons.
Dietary Options
Torrisi caters to a variety of dietary needs, offering gluten-free pasta and adhering to strict cross-contamination protocols. Diners have rated its gluten-free safety at 4.2/5, with many praising the restaurant's transparency and care.
"Most of the menu can be made gluten free and when I asked about cross contamination the waitress was very clear and explained all the kitchen protocols for gluten free orders. The gluten free pasta was a delicious and I couldn't even tell it was gluten free." - lauren62989, Symptomatic Celiac
However, since Torrisi is not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, diners with severe celiac disease should discuss their needs directly with the staff.
Vegetarians will find satisfying choices as well. The Tortellini Pomodoro is a crowd favorite, while the off-menu Cacio e Pepe delivers a classic Roman experience. The restaurant is also attentive to nut and sesame allergies, ensuring a safe dining experience for those with specific needs.
"The service was excellent and they were very accommodating to my boyfriend’s nut and sesame allergies." - Ariella Shlayan
Torrisi's well-trained staff take care to address allergen concerns and dietary restrictions, allowing guests to enjoy their meal with confidence. Paired with their thoughtful wine and beverage selections, the menu promises a memorable culinary experience.
Wine and Drinks
Wine Selection
Torrisi takes pride in its carefully chosen wine list, designed to perfectly complement its Italian-American dishes. This selection is paired with a detailed corkage policy for those who prefer to bring their own bottles.
Corkage Policy
Guests are welcome to bring their own wine, with a corkage fee of $95 per 750 ml bottle and $190 per magnum. Planning to bring more than three bottles? Simply reach out to reservations@torrisinyc.com for arrangements.
Cocktails and Other Drinks
For those who enjoy cocktails, Torrisi offers an imaginative drink menu crafted by Nathan McCarley-O'Neill, formerly of London's renowned Claridge's. The cocktail program reimagines classic favorites, featuring highlights like the Spritz Torrisi, infused with rhubarb and peach, and a diverse selection of Negronis to suit every taste.
Dining Experience: Is Torrisi Overrated?
Interior Design and Atmosphere
Torrisi is nestled within the historic Puck Building, and its setting exudes sophistication and drama. The vaulted ceilings, expansive artwork, and open kitchen create a dynamic environment where diners can watch the culinary magic unfold. The dining room is adorned with white tablecloths, meticulously pressed linens, and waitstaff clad in dinner jackets, all contributing to the restaurant's polished aesthetic. Yet, despite these formal touches, the atmosphere is anything but stiff. As The MICHELIN Guide aptly describes, "waiters are crisply dressed in dinner jackets and tables are draped in pressed linens, but the buzzy warmth is as charming as the good looks."
Service and Seating Options
Torrisi offers a variety of seating arrangements tailored to different dining preferences, ensuring every visit feels special.
The Dining Room is the epitome of elegance, accommodating up to six guests per table. Reservations for this space can be made via Resy up to 30 days in advance. The room's impressive artwork and architectural details complement the attentive service, making it perfect for a refined dining experience.
For a more casual and lively vibe, the Bar Counter operates on a walk-in, first-come, first-served basis. Here, guests can savor their meal while enjoying the bustling energy of the open kitchen.
The Chef's Table, located within the Bar Room, offers an intimate yet non-private setting for up to 10 guests. With specific seatings at 5:00 PM, 5:30 PM, and 8:30 PM, this option provides a closer look at the culinary process, making it an excellent choice for food enthusiasts.
For those celebrating milestones or hosting events, the Private Dining Room is an exclusive space that can be customized for seated dinners of up to 32 guests or standing cocktail receptions for up to 30 guests.
Seating Option | Capacity | Reservation Policy | Atmosphere |
Dining Room | Up to 6 guests | 30 days in advance via Resy | Elegant |
Bar Counter | Varies | Walk-ins only, first-come basis | Lively, energetic |
Chef's Table | Up to 10 guests | Specific times: 5:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 8:30 PM | Intimate, non-private |
Private Dining Room | Up to 32 seated, 30 standing | Special arrangements | Exclusive |
Restaurant Rules and Dress Code
To maintain its refined atmosphere, Torrisi has clear policies in place. It is an adults-only establishment, as the restaurant emphasizes:
"For the comfort and enjoyment of all our guests, we maintain an adults-only dining experience. We regret that children under three are not accommodated in our dining rooms. We are unable to accommodate strollers, high chairs, or a children's menu."Torrisi
The dress code reflects the restaurant's fine dining standards. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, with Torrisi stating:
"Torrisi is a fine dining restaurant, please dress for the occasion. Athletic wear is prohibited."Torrisi
Additionally, wine enthusiasts planning to bring more than three bottles are required to email reservations@torrisinyc.com in advance. This ensures proper coordination for wine service and storage, in keeping with the restaurant's high standards.
How to Visit
After soaking in the dining experience, here’s everything you need to know about planning your visit.
Hours of Operation
Lunch is available Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM. The restaurant remains closed on Sundays. These hours are consistent year-round, but it’s always a good idea to check the website or call ahead during major holidays, as schedules may change.
Making Reservations
Reservations for the dining room open 30 days in advance at 10:00 AM EST on Resy and are available for groups of up to six people. Popular time slots can fill up within seconds, so to increase your chances, be ready on Resy with your preferred party size and time selected before reservations go live.
If you’re unable to secure a dining room reservation, consider the bar counter. With 12 seats available on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s a great walk-in option, offering most of the full menu.
For larger groups (more than six), special arrangements can be made by emailing events@majorfood.com. Reservations can also be requested directly through the restaurant’s website or by emailing reservations@torrisinyc.com, though Resy is the primary booking platform. For last-minute availability, keep an eye on Resy for updates.
Address and Contact Information
Torrisi is located at 275 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012, at the intersection of Mulberry and Houston Streets.
Getting there is easy with several subway options nearby. The Broadway–Lafayette Street station (B, D, F, M lines) and the Bleecker Street station (6 line) are just a short walk away. The Spring Street station (6 line) and Prince Street station (N, Q, R, W lines) also provide convenient access.
Parking in the area can be tricky. Street parking is limited and metered, and nearby garages often charge high rates. Many guests prefer to use public transportation or ride-share services for a hassle-free experience.
For special requests or inquiries, you can reach the restaurant at reservations@torrisinyc.com. Note that the restaurant does not guarantee reservations made through unauthorized booking platforms, so it’s best to stick to official channels.
Final Thoughts
Since opening its doors in December 2022, Torrisi Bar & Restaurant has firmly established itself as one of New York City's must-visit dining spots, earning a Michelin Star in 2023. Signature dishes like the Cavatelli with Jamaican Beef Ragu and Capellini Cantonese showcase a fresh take on Italian-American cuisine, reflecting the city's ever-evolving culinary landscape. Each plate tells a story, blending tradition with innovation.
Nestled in the historic Puck Building, Torrisi offers a setting as captivating as its menu. Whether you're seated in the elegant dining room or at the vibrant bar counter, the atmosphere feels both grand and quintessentially New York. It's the perfect marriage of Michelin-level sophistication and the city's unmistakable energy.
For anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Torrisi delivers more than just remarkable food - it serves up a taste of New York's rich culinary history in every bite. It’s a celebration of the city’s dynamic and refined food culture, brought to life with every dish. Simply put: Torrisi is worth the hype.
FAQs
What are some standout dishes at Torrisi Restaurant that showcase cultural influences?
Torrisi Restaurant serves up a menu that blends flavors from different cuisines in exciting ways. Take their Cavatelli with Jamaican Beef Ragu, for instance - it's a mix of Italian pasta paired with the bold spices of Caribbean cooking. Or the Capellini Cantonese, where lobster is given a Chinese-inspired twist. These dishes showcase the restaurant's dedication to honoring the rich and varied food traditions that make New York's culinary scene so special.
How do I make a reservation at Torrisi Restaurant, and what should I do if reservations are unavailable?
Reservations at Torrisi Restaurant are available up to 30 days ahead for groups of up to six people. If the dining room is fully booked, don’t worry - you can still enjoy the restaurant by heading to the bar. The bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a great option for walk-ins who want a more relaxed and vibrant dining experience.
Does Torrisi Restaurant accommodate dietary restrictions, and is it safe for guests with severe allergies?
If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, it's best to reach out to Torrisi Restaurant directly. While there's no detailed information available about how they handle these needs, contacting the restaurant will help clarify their ability to accommodate your requirements and ensure your dining experience is safe and enjoyable.
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