Scarpetta, a gorgeous gem in the Meatpacking District in NYC is definitely a celeb dining destination, but you don't have to be one to be treated like one. Dim lighting, cordial wait staff, fabulous menu...this is a place to be, whether or not you're being seen. Of course, if you can't get to the city, you can visit Montauk, Philadelphia, Vegas or Miami.It was a cold day in early 2017 when I went for dinner, and a vegetarian menu was ready and waiting for this trendy vegan, along with some delicious breads, olive oil and a savory tomato compote. The server was so accommodating that it was hard for me to make a decision.
I ultimately decided to start with the chestnut soup, poured table side, with parsnip, celery root and dried cranberries, but it was hard to pass up the beet salad with shaved vegetables and market greens, or the straciatella - not a gelato, but a but a squash, apple and sweet potato dish with a truffle vinaigrette.The soup was so filling, that I passed up what sounded like a wonderful pasta (egg-less no less!) I settled on the warm rosemary-braised lentils with broccoli rabe and roasted tomato (the carrot, zucchini farro risotto was a super close second...) It was just perfect. I was too full to finish it all, and took the rest for lunch the next day. I wound up eating it as a late night snack instead!
For a date night, or just a lovely evening out, this is one location you should be sure to try.
