If you asked me where to find an authentic Italian restaurant in New York City, I wouldn’t suggest Midtown. There are pockets of Italianness in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. But Feroce Ristorante, Caffè, and Bar opened in the middle of Manhattan, and I changed my mind.
The multi-purpose spot is a welcome addition to the sea of sameness that is Midtown. It’s run by Francesco Panella, whose family owns the famous Antica Pesa in Rome, so I knew it would be good right away. Even so, every visit has exceeded my high expectations.
Feroce has something for everyone. If I don’t have a lot of time, I sit at the bar downstairs for a quick espresso. In and out. I’ve gone for lunch in the garden terrace upstairs. It’s enclosed in glass, making it perfect for every season. I order ultra thin-crust Roman pizza and play a game of Bocce ball. There’s also a full restaurant, a cozy lounge, and dedicated spaces to work on your laptop in the cafe. The list goes on and on.
There are plenty of great Italian American restaurants in New York. But if you’re looking for a taste of the real Italy in America, this is the spot to visit bar none.
