Trattoria Tricolori Review – New York, NY

The Spot

Trattoria Tricolori is a hidden gem located just steps away from the bustling Times Square and Theater district in New York. My friend and I were in the area for a show and wanted to avoid the typical tourist traps, so we did some research and stumbled upon this cozy, family-owned Italian spot. We were surprised to find that reservations were difficult to come by on a rainy Tuesday evening, with our only options being 4:30 or after 7. It’s worth noting that this place is probably even more popular on the weekends, so if you’re planning a visit then, be sure to book in advance!

As soon as we stepped inside, we were transported to a classic Manhattan restaurant – long and narrow, with exposed brick walls and warm, ambient lighting. Despite the intimate setting, there was plenty of space between tables and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. The service was top-notch, with attentive and friendly waitstaff who refilled our water glasses and checked in on us throughout the meal.

The Food

Now let’s talk about the real star of the show – the food! Tricolori’s menu has something for everyone, with classic dishes and some delicious specialties that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. And the cocktail menu is a standout, with an entire section devoted to gin and tonics – a rarity that caught my attention immediately. I opted for the Strawberry & Thyme GinTonic and it was the perfect choice – refreshing and light, with well-balanced flavors that didn’t overpower each other.

We started with the Fritto Misto, a crispy and flavorful appetizer of fried calamari and shrimp. The batter could have used a bit more seasoning on its own, but the accompanying dipping sauce was heavenly and the peppers added a nice kick. For my main, I went with the classic Chicken Parmesan – a safe bet that never disappoints. And boy, was I impressed – the chicken was cooked to perfection and the flavors were spot on. It was also a generous portion, so much so that I wasn’t able to finish it all. My dining companion had the I Rigatoni and also enjoyed their meal.

The Wrap Up

So, what’s the verdict? Trattoria Tricolori is a solid choice if you’re in the midtown area and want to avoid chain restaurants. It’s perfect for small groups, but may not be suitable for larger parties. Just be prepared for it to get busy and loud during the dinner rush, so it might not be the best spot for intimate conversation after 5. But overall, it was a pleasant experience and a great alternative to the touristy options in the Times Square/Theater district. Just don’t expect to be blown away if you’re craving truly exceptional Italian food – for that, you’ll want to head to Little Italy.