Cotenna

"If you like Aria Wine Bar in the West Village, you’ll be into Cotenna. They look the same, they have the same menu, and the vibes are only a little less rowdy at Cotenna. And maybe that’s because Cotenna is about one-third the size of Aria. Plenty of people still come here for cheap appetizers and $12 pastas, however, so expect a crowd. This place is on a little side street in the lower West Village, and the location, decor, and reasonable prices make it ideal for either an early-in-the-game date or a casual late-in-the-game outing." - Bryan Kim

"This place is on a little side street in the lower West Village, and the location, decor, and reasonable prices make it ideal for either an early-in-the-game date or a casual late-in-the-game outing. It’s a popular spot for relatively affordable pastas, so expect a crowd and consider making a reservation to make sure you get an outdoor table." - matt tervooren, neha talreja

"You can just call this place Diet Aria. Not because it’s healthy, but because they serve the exact same food as Aria Wine Bar in a smaller space that doesn’t get quite as busy. Sure, weekends get crowded - but if you stop by on a weeknight, you should be able to grab a table (or a bar seat) and a $12 bowl of pasta no problem." - bryan kim

"The elusive sign, the secretive feel, the tiny space, the keenly priced menu with a plate for every palate—yes, this is the sort of place we’d all like up our sleeve when friends want a recommendation in the Village. It’s warm, welcoming and cozy and you’ll be reluctant to venture back out into the real world afterwards. The jewels are in the cicchetti section, like tender porchetta on crostini; grilled sardines with pine nuts, onions and bags of flavor; as well as deliciously sweet dates stuffed with gorgonzola and wrapped in speck. The pasta dishes aren’t lacking in oomph either; wild boar pappardelle and garganelli osso buco both pack a punch. The only challenge will be finding enough space on your little table for all the food you’ll order." - Michelin Inspector

"Consider this Aria’s little sister. And that isn’t a Game of Thrones reference. Aria Wine Bar in the West Village is one of the city’s premiere first-date spots, and Cotenna (by the same owners) is pretty much a smaller replica. It’s also in the West Village, but it’s just a tad more under-the-radar. If you have to eat on a date, go here. The food is good, inexpensive Italian, and the space is dark enough that no one will see you if your date shows up in flip flops and a misguiding t-shirt that says something like, “Real Cool Person.” Also, service is quick - so you can get in and get out." - bryan kim, katherine lewin