240 W 14th St

"Crispo is another restaurant that falls into the category of long-time Infatuation favorite. The restaurant opened in the summer of 2002, and has since seen some strong competition open up in the neighborhood - Scarpetta, La Bottega, and the Standard Grill to name just a few. We hadn't been back in a while and recently decided to check in and see how the place is holding up. Amazingly enough, Crispo is still hanging tough like Keith Richards' internal organs. They're drawing nice crowds most nights, and the food is exactly as we remembered - high quality Italian with great pastas, a nice selection of cured meats and antipasti, and a solid wine list. It seems that once again consistency is the key to success. For the warm weather months (both of them) Crispo has a huge back garden that's a relatively well kept secret. Keep that one in your pocket and let everyone else flock to Paradou while you dine outside with people that don't suck. Food Rundown Antipasti Take your pick from some small plate offerings. We love the ricotta, risotto balls, and the eggplant caponata. Affetati This is a seemingly endless list of thinly sliced prosciutto with various accompaniments. Anything with fruit or melon is highly recommended, as is the prosciutto, bufala mozzarella, cippolini, and arugula combo. Bucatini with Crispy Guanciale & Spicy Tomato There is something about that crispy pork jowl that makes me feel like I'm eating something dangerously unhealthy...and I'm really not sure why. At any rate, the pastas at Crispo are all very good, and this one never disappoints. Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage This is one of my all time favorite pasta dishes, and Crispo's might be the best I've had. The sausage is nice and spicy, and the broccoli rabe isn't overly bitter. A must order. Seared Duck Breast Anitra Again, I feel strongly that pasta is the way to go, but this duck entree is pretty good. Nicely seared with a fig and port sauce." - Chris Stang