Massoni: a NEW Italian-ish restaurant in Nomad
If I didn’t work out of an office, I would be working out of the community lounge at the Arlo hotel. This hotel is super hip, but has this homey, yet chic vibe -- the space features different vintage NYC posters throughout the lobby and second floor lounge. The second floor lounge has long wood tables and comfy couches, while on the other side of the floor sits the hotel’s bar, BARlo. Word on the street is that they’re opening a rooftop bar in the Spring -- can’t wait!
When you enter the hotel, there’s this cute little bodega great for a morning coffee or sandwich when you’re on-the-go. The best part of the hotel though, is its new restaurant, Massoni featuring dishes by renowned Chef Dale Talde.
Before diving into the full on review, I want to preface that this restaurant is the best “in-authentic” Italian fare I’ve had in awhile, and there are a ton of “Italian-ish” spots in Manhattan, but Massoni takes the cake. Here’s what we got:
Biriyani Rice Balls: spicy tomato sauce
Massoni Caesar: romaine, parmesan breadcrumb, nori
Detroit Style Pie: Charred brussels sprout, pistachio pesto, ricotta salata
Squid Ink Pappardelle crab alla vodka
Everything was amazing -- the pizza was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. I had a leftover slice the next day and it was just as good as the night before. The Caesar incredibly tasty -- I am going to start carrying around nori to every Italian restaurant so I can top my salads with it. My only complaint is a rare one. The service was way too quick. The waitress took our order right away, the food came out within 10 minutes, and we were a bit rushed out. I understand that the restaurant is busy and they want to turn over tables, but please let me enjoy my meal to the fullest! Despite feeling a bit rushed, I still give the restaurant a 9/10. I can’t wait to go back and spread the word about this gem.
Massoni @ Arlo NoMad
11 East 31st Street
New York, NY 10016
212.806.7000
