As soon as Eataly opened in the Flatiron District, the city buzzed about the vast, wide-open space filled with all the finest Italian foodstuffs a person could want, and much, much more. Dreamt up by world-famous chef Mario Batali—who prefers the term “food temple” for the colossal marketplace, as opposed to the more common “food hall”—the Eataly concept was at the forefront of the market-dining trend, which has caught fire around town of late. So much so that there’s now a second Eataly at the World Trade Center. If there’s one downside to Eataly, it’s that a visit can be a bit overwhelming. To help you pinpoint exactly where you need to go, and save a little time, here’s a rundown of our favorite individual counters, cafés, and culinary destinations at this amazing Flatiron food hub.
To counteract any potential food comas about to ensue, why not grab a delightful espresso or cappuccino at Caffè Lavazza just inside the Fifth Avenue entrance. The café opens a bit earlier than the rest of the marketplace, so feel free to arrive early and fuel up.
Just further on, the panini counter provides a high-quality breakfast or lunch on the go. Served on house-made bread, the paninis are filled with the same products sourced and sold in the stores and offered in the restaurants. Try a breakfast panini with wholesome local eggs from Arcadian Pastures, local meats, Italian salumi and formaggi on a ciabatta, or the standout Firenze with Hampshire pork and sage sausage.
Fromaggi at Eataly (Image: Enrique Vázquez)
Fashioned after an Italian square, La Piazza is a wonderful spot to pause and take stock of your visit so far, and plan what’s next. Eataly’s amazing cheese and salumi counters surround the standing enoteca, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy a few nibbles along with a glass of vino.
Manzo Ristorante (Image: Yelp)
Be sure to reserve your seat at this meat-lover’s fine-dining mecca, and look forward to savory Italian dishes with a twist. The pappardelle comes with braised Broken Arrow Ranch boar shoulder and parmigiano reggiano, while the pan-seared Long Island duck breast is served with beluga lentils, braised red cabbage and Villa Manodori Aceto balsamico. Delizioso!
Le Verdure Salad (Image: Yelp)
Near the can’t-miss produce section, this veggie-centric restaurant has a rotating menu based on seasonal offerings from local farms. We recommend the gnocchi alla romana—baked semolina and parmigiano reggiano dumplings, served with braised Brussels sprouts and spicy breadcrumbs.
Pastry delicacies at Eataly (Photo by Virginia Rollison, courtesy of Eataly)
Unbelievable custard cups and miniature cakes are on display at this stand, providing the perfect dessert after your hearty meal…or meals. We don’t judge!
La Birreria (Image: Yelp)
After touring the marketplace and eateries below, wrap up your visit with a trip to the rooftop Birreria, which will welcome the return of Baita on Nov. 3. The ski-lodge-inspired pop up restaurant will offer homemade sausages and mulled wine, meant to be enjoyed underneath the stars and next to comfortable electric heaters.
Buon appetito!