Lavagna

- 545 E 5th St, New York, NY 10009

Tucked away on a quiet street in the East Village, Lavagna is a true neighborhood gem that brings a taste of authentic Italian cuisine to New York City. This family-run restaurant exudes a charm that is both romantic and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for everything from a special date night to a long-overdue catch-up with friends. Lavagna prides itself on serving flavorful, high-quality dishes that capture the essence of traditional Italian cooking, all within a cozy and intimate setting.

The atmosphere at Lavagna strikes a beautiful balance between trendy and upscale while remaining casually comfortable. It's a place where you can feel at ease whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner. The dedication to creating a great dining experience is evident in every detail, from the warm lighting to the attentive service. The staff is known for being friendly and professional, ensuring that every guest feels well taken care of from the moment they arrive.

One of the highlights of Lavagna is its menu, which focuses on delivering authentic Italian flavors. The kitchen uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to create dishes that are both classic and exciting. From the antipasti to the main courses, every item is crafted with care. Patrons are particularly enthusiastic about the pasta, which is widely considered the restaurant's specialty. While reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, the experience is well worth the planning. Lavagna offers a unique blend of a cozy, hidden-gem feel with the quality and sophistication of a top-tier Italian eatery, solidifying its place as a go-to for those who appreciate good food and a great atmosphere.

Lavagna is located at 545 E 5th St, New York, NY 10009, USA. Situated in the East Village, the restaurant is part of a vibrant and residential neighborhood that provides a more relaxed, authentic New York feel. This location is easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for locals and those visiting from other parts of the city.

The area is well-connected by public transportation, with several subway and bus lines within a reasonable walking distance. This makes it a practical choice for a planned dinner or a spontaneous outing. The restaurant is committed to accessibility and offers wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can comfortably enjoy their dining experience. Paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though it's important to be mindful that spaces can be limited in this popular area. For a more leisurely approach, a walk through the charming streets of the East Village to get to the restaurant is a lovely way to begin the evening.

Lavagna provides a comprehensive range of dining and service options to accommodate different needs and preferences.

• Dine-in Service: The restaurant offers a full dine-in experience with table service in its cozy and romantic setting.
• Outdoor Seating: During warmer months, outdoor seating is available, providing a pleasant al fresco dining option.
• Reservations: Lavagna accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends, to secure a table. Some reviews mention that reservations are required for special occasions like Valentine's Day, so it is always a good idea to book ahead.
• Takeout & Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, the restaurant offers both takeout and delivery services, including a no-contact delivery option for safety and convenience.

Lavagna is celebrated for several key features that set it apart from other Italian restaurants in the city.

• Great Wine List: The restaurant is known for its impressive wine selection, with a variety of options that are perfectly paired to complement the menu. The wine is often praised by patrons as a delightful surprise.
• Great Dessert: The dessert menu is a highlight, offering a perfect end to the meal. The Gianduja Flourless Chocolate Mousse Cake and Panna Cotta are particularly noteworthy.
• Authentic & Flavorful Food: The food is consistently described as "extremely flavorful" and authentic. The menu features a range of dishes from classic pastas to unique antipasti, all made with care.
• Romantic and Cozy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw, with its romantic, upscale, and cozy feel making it an ideal choice for a date night or a special occasion.
• Wood-Burning Oven Pizzette: A unique offering is the selection of pizzette, which are cooked in a wood-burning oven, giving them a distinct and delicious flavor.

Address: 545 E 5th St, New York, NY 10009, USA

Phone: (212) 979-1005

When you dine at Lavagna, the menu presents a wealth of options, but certain dishes and experiences are highly recommended. The pastas are a must-try, as they are considered the restaurant's specialty. While the specific menu changes, dishes like the Buccatini All’ Amatriciana and the Homemade Sweet Pea Ravioli are great examples of the type of fresh, flavorful pasta you can expect. Customers have also raved about the arrabbiata spaghetti, noting that even those who are typically not fans of the dish were won over by Lavagna's version.

For a starter, the antipasti selection is a great way to begin your meal. The Octopus Carpaccio and the Carciofo Al Forno (baked artichoke) are excellent choices that showcase the kitchen's expertise. One customer specifically praised the artichoke and bean puree starter, describing it as "divine," a testament to the quality and creativity of the appetizers.

If you're looking for a main course beyond pasta, the Secondi options are equally impressive, featuring dishes like the Steak Lavagna and Rack Of Lamb. And for a more casual but equally delicious option, the Pizzetta Del Bosco from the wood-burning oven offers a taste of authentic Italian pizza.

Finally, what makes Lavagna truly worth choosing is the combination of its amazing food, extensive wine list, and romantic, family-run atmosphere. It’s a place that delivers a genuine, high-quality dining experience without feeling overly formal. Whether you are celebrating a special moment or just craving delicious Italian comfort food, Lavagna is a hidden gem that promises to delight your senses and leave you planning your next visit.

Lavagna

545 E 5th St, New York, NY 10009, USA