November 14, 2009 1:24 pm

Convivio: A Truly Tasty $59 Prix-Fixe

These were the most pleasurable plates we have eaten this season! What could be more spectacular than a delicate Pinot Noir, the perfect upright and comfortable chair and four courses all under $80?

Micheal White may be known as a modern Italian chef but at Convivio in Tudor City, the dining has become an eclectic experience. Sfizi to start—an assortment of crudo, veggies and more. The Tuna Belly my favorite. A generous helping, seasoned subtly-reminiscent of the fresh ocean breeze. One can hardly call it sfizi as the portions are similar to a primi at those Upper East Side dining rooms.

On an evening when it dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, pasta is in order. The homemade stuffed ravioli spoke volumes of the seasons harvest. Butter, nutty and laced with fresh herbs. Even the ratio of pasta to buttery sauce was manageable. In my mind I had already committed to hosting a family holiday feast here. The servers were one more charming than the next! How often can you boast about service in Manhattan?

Our dinner companions consider Convivio amongst their top 3 when contemplating a sure shot fabulous meal. Perhaps the proximity all this time pre-determined in our minds that we needed to cab it further down to feel hip and young and satisfied.

Secondi? But there was little room for fruit from the sea. A few mouthfuls to taste transcended me. Recoiled in my dining chair the whole complexion had changed since L'Impero. Shiny charger plates, upbeat tunes and well heeled 30 and 40 somethings all pouring over their delicious dishes.

I was certain the dessert was not an option. But how bad could the cheese plate be?

Stay tuned: Behind the Burner goes inside the kitchen of Convivio with Chef Michael White.

Convivio
45 Tudor City Place
New York, NY 10017
212.599.5045

— Written by Aditi Malhotra

< PREVIOUS ENTRY NEXT ENTRY >

Share This >

Login to comment