"If you’re looking for an affordable, delicious weeknight dinner, we immediately think of Barbuzzo. The cozy, dimly-lit Mediterranean spot is usually packed, but the smoky grilled octopus, plates of pan seared gnocchi, and Uovo pizza with truffled egg are worth it. Come with a couple of friends or get a front row seat at the first come, first serve chef’s counter." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"Before a night of main lobby chaos, squeezing by strangers to get to your seat, and inevitably losing your playbill, head to Barbuzzo. This laidback Mediterranean restaurant is perfect for a group meal just a few blocks from the main event. The offerings are simple and straightforward—arancini, salads, pasta like pan-seared gnocchi, and wood fired pizzas that taste like a standing ovation on a plate. Come in for a chill dinner, and when your friend says she got restricted view seats in the 30th row, order another glass of wine. You’ll need it." - candis mclean
"Made with vanilla bean pudding and topped with caramel, sea salt, and crumbled dark chocolate crust — there’s nothing that compares to the salted caramel budino at Barbuzzo. Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran’s unique take on the classic Italian pudding parfait has been a dessert showstopper for years in a city often known for water ice and cannoli." - Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme
"So you just ran into your coworker at a bar after spending the whole day ignoring their invitation to get drinks? Head to Barbuzzo in Midtown Village to process the awkwardness with wood-fired pizzas, delicious pasta, and small plates like crispy arancini. Plus, with discounted house reds and whites by the glass, a great excuse might come to you between sips." - candis mclean
"One of the most recognizable Philly desserts around, Barbuzzo’s budino is sweet perfection in a mini jar. A tasty custard topped with dark chocolate crust, vanilla bean caramel, and sea salt — it’s undeniably great." - Annemarie Dooling