Basta Pasta

- 37 W 17th St #300, New York, NY 10011

Located near Union Square, Basta Pasta stands as a truly unique and enduring institution in New York City's dining scene. Since first opening its doors in 1990, this restaurant has delighted patrons with its creative fusion of authentic Italian cuisine and subtle Japanese influences. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, resulting in a one-of-a-kind dining experience that appeals to both locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is a blend of casual, cozy, and trendy, with an upscale feel that makes it perfect for a variety of occasions, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special celebration. Despite its popularity, a standout feature is its ability to maintain a calm and relaxing ambiance, even on a busy weekday night. As one customer noted, it's a place that offers "No Manhattan rush—just great food and relaxed time with friends."

Basta Pasta is a testament to culinary creativity, with a menu that consistently surprises and delights. The restaurant's reputation for being "a reliable and creative institution" is well-earned, with decades of experience crafting exciting and delicious dishes. The highlight for many is the pasta, particularly the Japanese-fusion creations like the "Spaghetti con Uova di Pesce" with its "tobiko and shiso combo" that is "so good." The kitchen, visible from the dining area, adds a dynamic and fresh feel to the space. Beyond the pasta, patrons rave about other dishes, from "perfectly grilled lamb chops" to a dessert that is simply described as "Wow." The chef's tasting menu, or "Omakase," is another example of their culinary prowess, confirming their ability to "deliver exciting and creative dishes." Basta Pasta is a place that continues to thrive by offering something truly different, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one.

Basta Pasta is conveniently located at 37 W 17th St in New York's Flatiron district, placing it in a prime location just a few blocks from the bustling Union Square. This central placement makes it highly accessible for anyone in the city. The restaurant is a short walk from the Union Square subway station, a major transit hub served by the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, and W lines. This makes it a convenient meeting spot for groups coming from different parts of Manhattan and beyond. For those arriving by car, there is paid street parking available in the surrounding area.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests, with accessibility features that include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating. While the interior is often cozy and full, with a wait that is "usually a wait," the space is well-designed to handle a crowd while maintaining its inviting atmosphere. It’s a great spot to meet up for lunch or dinner, and the proximity to Union Square means you can easily pair a meal at Basta Pasta with a visit to the park, the farmers' market, or local shops. The combination of its excellent location and commitment to accessibility makes Basta Pasta a welcoming and easy choice for any dining occasion.

Basta Pasta offers a wide array of services and menu options that cater to a diverse clientele and provide a premium dining experience.

• Extensive Food Menu: The menu is divided into classic Italian courses: "Antipasta," "Primi Piatti (Pasta)," and "Secondi Piatti (Main Course)." It includes:

  • Pasta: A highlight of the menu, with a variety of classic and unique creations, including the famous "Spaghetti con Uova di Pesce" and "Spaghetti con Prosciutto e Parmigiano," which is served from a Parmesan cheese wheel tableside.

  • Main Courses: Perfectly prepared meats and fish, such as "Salmone Alla Griglia" and "Agnello alla Griglia," which one customer called "absolutely outstanding!"

  • Vegetarian Options: A variety of vegetarian dishes are available, including "Cavatelli alla Norma con Mozzarella" and "Verdure del Mercato alla Griglia," showcasing their ability to cater to different dietary needs.

  • Kids' Menu: The restaurant is "good for kids" and offers a dedicated kids' menu along with high chairs, making it a family-friendly destination.

• Drinks and Beverages: The restaurant has a "great wine list," with selections that pair perfectly with the food. It also offers a full bar with beer, cocktails, and hard liquor, including a variety of creative and classic cocktails. Coffee is also served.

• Special Offerings: Basta Pasta is known for its "Happy hour drinks" and "Happy hour food." They also offer a popular "prix fixe lunch" deal that is described as "such a good deal." For those seeking a unique culinary journey, the chef's tasting menu is a must-try.

• Service Options: The restaurant offers dine-in with both counter and table service. Takeout and delivery services are also available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.

• Amenities: The restaurant is equipped with a bar onsite, gender-neutral and standard restrooms, and offers Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable spot for a casual or planned visit.

• Reservations: While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially for lunch and dinner, as the restaurant is known to have a wait.

The services at Basta Pasta are designed to provide a comprehensive and high-quality dining experience. The detailed and creative menu, along with the various service and dining options, makes it a reliable choice for any occasion.

Basta Pasta is celebrated for several key features and highlights that set it apart from other Italian restaurants in New York City.

• Unique Fusion Cuisine: The Italian-Japanese fusion is a major highlight. The unexpected blend of flavors, like the "Spaghetti con Uova di Pesce," provides a truly creative and memorable dining experience that you won't find anywhere else.

• Exceptional Pasta: The pasta is a star feature. It is consistently praised for being delicious and perfectly cooked, with a variety of options that showcase the chef's creativity.

• Cozy and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite being in a busy part of Manhattan, the restaurant offers a "quiet and cozy" vibe that is perfect for a relaxed meal. It's a welcome escape from the "Manhattan rush."

• Great Cocktails, Wine, and Dessert: The restaurant has a "great cocktails" and "great wine list," ensuring that drinks are as high-quality as the food. The desserts, like their "gelato," also receive rave reviews.

• Excellent Value: The "prix fixe lunch" is highlighted as a "good deal," offering a great way to experience the restaurant's quality cuisine without a high price tag. The tasting menu provides a curated and exciting experience at a good value.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Space: The restaurant is family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space, creating a truly welcoming and comfortable environment for all guests.

These highlights are what make Basta Pasta a true gem in the city. It’s a place that is not only known for its food but also for its welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to providing a unique and high-quality experience.

For all inquiries and to learn more about Basta Pasta, you can reach out using the following information:

Address: 37 W 17th St #300, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 366-0888

What is worth choosing Basta Pasta over the countless other Italian restaurants in New York City? The answer lies in its unique and well-executed fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines. This creative approach, a rarity in the city, sets it apart and makes it a destination for food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s longevity is a testament to its consistent quality and ability to innovate. While the price can be on the higher side, the value is clear, especially with their fantastic prix fixe lunch menu. The atmosphere is a huge draw—a quiet, cozy, and relaxing space in the midst of a bustling neighborhood. This makes it an ideal spot for a date, a family dinner, or a solo meal. The service is attentive and friendly, and the staff's passion for the food and their customers shines through. From their "perfectly grilled lamb chops" to their exceptional pasta and impressive tasting menu, Basta Pasta offers a dining experience that is both creative and reliable. It’s a place that has perfected its craft over decades, and a visit here is a chance to experience a true New York institution.

Basta Pasta

37 W 17th St #300, New York, NY 10011, USA