Phyllis Barcena (Felicia)
Google
I'm writing this to recommend one of the best Italian restaurants I have visited in New York City. I consider myself a bit of an expert on authentic Italian food and a self-proclaimed foodie with high expectations when it comes to restaurants boasting authentic Italian. I am here to say that Regional Restaurant and Wine Bar in the Upper West Side of Manhattan is by far the best Italian food I have had since I left Italy. Every meal is prepared with the utmost authenticity and perfection. The service is impeccable and the atmosphere is just as if you were in Italy, with the owner visiting each table and personally ensuring that you are receiving the best service and meal possible. The chef is nothing short of an artist and his pairings of flavors and marriage of items in the daily specials are simply masterful. select any salad or pasta dish and you are sure to not only be pleased but have your expectations exceeded. The Branzino with couscous and clams flavored with lemon Capers and wine and served with the bed of fried leeks as light as air is one of the best dishes I have ever had in my life. Every item on the menu is perfect. The prefix menu at a low price of $25 offers you an appetizer generous entree and dessert all prepared with the greatest authenticity of true Italian cooking. They offer a great selection of Wines and Liquors and the owner is quick to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal. Weather permitting outdoor dining is also available to give you that Al Fresco Italian feel. Regional Restaurant and Wine Bar on Broadway and 98th may not get the notoriety of other Italian restaurants in the area but I have tried them all and I am here to tell you that this one is the only one that I have found that exceeds my expectations each and every time. I have been there 3 times in the last week and have been delighted on each visit. consistency, continuity and reliability are important to me and I know that I will always get a perfect meal at Regional. All of the desserts are fantastic but the real Hidden Gem is the hand-made semifreddo and I guarantee you will not find this anywhere else! They offer a fantastic deal on weekend brunch and overall the prices are on par if not less than many of the competition. I will also say that the portions are generous and you always get the best bang for your buck. If you haven't visited this restaurant and you like Italian food that is not only authentic but served in an authentic Italian atmosphere, then I encourage you to visit Regional Restaurant and Wine Bar in the Upper West Side. This is one of the Hidden gems of uws Manhattan.