Sartiano's Brings The Scene Back To Soho

While Soho certainly never lost its cool, it's been a second since downtown's luxurious, artsy stretch held a real hold on the New York scene. Dimes Square, Noho, the Bowery - that's where the stories have primarily been for the past chunk of time. But this summer, that's definitely about to change.

Sartiano's has made its grand debut in The Mercer Hotel. 

Led by Scott Sartiano, the creator of Zero Bond, the new spot is a distinctly New York take on Italian. 

"For years I’ve envisioned opening a restaurant that captures the essence of my family's journey across Italy and the United States; and when the Mercer Kitchen space became available, it seemed like fate," shares Sartiano. 

"This iconic hotel and legendary SoHo corner have held special places in my heart. Prince and Mercer is the center of gravity for downtown NYC, and I’ve marked countless moments and milestones here throughout the years. I am thrilled to occupy this historic New York City space, and share my family’s culinary story with all who step through our doors."

Everything here from the interiors to the menu is sleek and light with just the right touch of moodiness. The Caviar Cannolis and the Lasagna with wild mushrooms and black truffles, the bright open kitchen humming alongside the shadow-lit, brick-walled, windowless dining room, it's all a delicious vibe. Pro tip: you're going to need at least two times as many orders of the focaccia as you'd assume. That stuff is crunchy soft delicious crack.

Sure to be a solid watering hole for the social set - the bar especially - the restaurant feels quite restrained compared to its trendy contemporaries. Though for those looking to indulge there is always the $425 36 oz. Olive-Fed Wagyu Porterhouse...

[Photos courtesy Sartiano's]