When it comes to dining in Manhattan, there are three aspects to the meal that I always look for in order for it to be a success. One is the location, two is the decor and hospitality, and three is the execution of the overall meal. There have been several restaurants that have accomplished all three things in my eyes at Manhattan Digest, and I have another one to add to that after finishing my meal there Friday night. This is Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, which is located right outside Grand Central Station at 447 Lexington Avenue.
Let’s start with location as it plays a vital role to why Davio’s has been such a success. Being only a mere block or two away from the world famous Grand Central Station is quite the plus for anyone who either lives in NYC or is traveling here for the summer season. Given that we went at the start of Memorial Day weekend, the surrounding area had a buzz of excitement to it, which we instantly felt upon arrival to Davio’s.
Davio’s itself is really a sight to be seen for many different reasons. Even before I arrived, I noticed a couple of gorgeous glass tables outside the location, which is perfect for al fresco dining, given that we somehow skipped spring and are now full into summer weather. Davio’s is a downstairs location, which led me into a visual masterpiece of what a steakhouse should really look like. I enjoyed the dimly lit atmosphere, with a gorgeous bar right when you walk in, the lively kitchen set to the right, and the beautiful dining area where you can sit with friends and family. You really get the sense, with the colors and vibe of Davio’s, that you escape to a beautiful part of Italy, as they really have mastered the decor and ambiance of their location.
The food really sings in so many aspects, its hard to figure out where to begin. Davio’s really prides itself on its homemade pastas, fresh seafood, perfectly cooked steaks and so much more. Here is what we recommend the next time you find yourself at this wonderful location. For their Antipasti section, I recommend the American Kobe Beef Meatballs, with caciocavello. It is a great starter dish, as I am one to never turn down a meatball in my life, and the texture and taste of the Kobe Beef really melds well with the delicious sauce that is provided. Another great starter in their Marchi section, is their line of unique spring rolls such as their Philly Cheese Steak Spring Roll with Spicy Homemade Ketchup and Spicy Mayo. Other rolls that they have include Buffalo Chicken, Chicken Parm, and even a Reuben Spring Roll however the Philly Cheese Steak was the standout for us, as the warm and tasty steak really paired well with the spicy mayo and ketchup to make it a two bite delectable.
They have a great line of Insalate’s, or salads, yet I happen to always choose the classics, so their Boston Lettuce Wedge with Cherry Tomatoes, Bacon and Blue Cheese is a great example of keeping it simple while tasting delicious. For the entree portion, if you are looking for a great pasta dish, I would recommend their Ravioli Nero with Lobster and Uni Butter. It is beyond rich as the Uni Butter really melds well with the Ravioli and the Lobster, and makes for a fantastic dish. If you are leaning more towards the fish angle, a big piece of their Seared Atlantic Salmon with Crab, English Pea Puree and Farro Risotto is another great way to go. Bursting with flavor from all four components, it is a great entree to enjoy for yourself. Their Organic Mushroom and Truffle Homemade Gnocchi was a big hit, as the Gnocchi was prepared perfectly. We didn’t try their steaks, however the table next to us had the 10oz Filet Mignon and said it was absolutely divine. They have several different cuts available from Ribeye, Flatiron, Veal Rib Chop and more, so the options are endless.
If you have enough room in your belly leftover for dessert, they will wheel out a cart full of tasty morsels for you to dine on. A heavenly way to end a great meal. I recommend Davio’s to anyone that has a good palate and a keen eye for what makes New York City such an amazing place to be in. For more information on Davio’s, check out their official site.