Restauranteur Thomas Carter and chef Ignacio Mattos are not new around the Manhattan dining scene. On the contrary, in 2013 they had launched Estela, a cosy joint in Nolita serving small plates Mediterranean-inspired food that was an instant hit. Not to mention Barack Obama dining there last year.
In 2016, the follow-up was even more tasty! Cafe Altro Paradiso launched in Soho, with a distinctly different menu, one focusing mostly on seasonal produce and Italian flavors.
The space, decorated by earthy and simple materials (think white oak, brass and glossy marble), creates an easy-going feel and calls for warm friendly gatherings and other encounters. Architect David M Sullivan designed the 80-seat space, also ensuring New York's classic dimly-lit ambience.
The menu, inspired by locally sourced materials, is really powerful on the antipasti and the past front. Make sure you make the most of it!
Top picks: fish crudo with caper berries and horseradish as a starter (delish!), and for past two options: ravioli di ricotta with chanterelles and black truffles for pasta and garganelli with chicken and olive ragù
