Recently, we went to see the Manhattan Theater Club presentation of "The American Plan". It was really quite good. Beforehand, we enjoyed a pre-theater dinner at Esca on 43rd St and 9th Ave. We were quite pleasantly surprised, especially since we were actually able to get a reservation on short notice. It may quite possibly be the best restaurant in the area.I started with Moscardino, Grilled baby octopus with bitter greens and cipolline onions. It was just about perfect. The octopus was lightly grilled with the onions. I have octopus quite often and this was among the best. Chris was being responsible; choosing two starters a fresh, perfectly dressed 'salad mixt' and the Moscardino for a main course.
The house specialty, Branzino per Due,Whole Mediterranean sea bass for two cooked in a sea salt crust was sold out (at 6:00!) so I had the special, home made Maccheroni with Razor Clams, Mussels and Little Neck and white beans. It was exceptional. Even the beans were perfect.
They have quite a nice wine list by the "quartino". Chris had a Valpolicella Ripasso “Semonte Alto”, (Venturini 2004) and I had a “Klin” Riserva, Primosic 2004, Friuli. Both were quite nice.
We were very pleased not only with the food, but also the decor. Tables were generously spaced, the staff was knowledgable, friendly and made suggestions that we liked. All in all, a fine dinner at a reasonable price, within easy walking distance of our theatre.
Esca Restaurant
402 West 43rd Street
212-564-7272
