I was in the city one evening, so I called my son, who lives there, and asked if he wanted to meet me for dinner. He suggested a place called Ci Siamo, an Italian restaurant near Penn Station. Since I was heading back to Merrick afterward, the location at 440 W 33rd Street was perfect. I was expecting a nice Italian meal, but what we experienced was something truly special.
Not Your Average Starters
We began with a salad, and right away, I knew this wasn’t an ordinary restaurant. It was incredible. The dressing was so light and flavorful that every single bite danced in your mouth. It was the perfect way to start the meal and set the stage for what was to come.
Entrees to Die For
When the main courses arrived, we were blown away. We decided to share two dishes: the gnocchi and a beef bolognese over pasta. Truly, it was to die for. Each bite seemed to get better than the last. The pasta was cooked perfectly, the bolognese was rich and hearty, and the gnocchi were like little pillows of heaven. It was elevated Italian cooking at its finest, turning familiar dishes into unforgettable ones.
We also had a glass of wine with our meal. I prefer a heavy, full-bodied wine, and I ordered the cheapest one on the menu. It turned out to be a bit too light for my taste, but it was still a superb glass of wine that complemented the food well.
A Sweet Finish
To finish things off, we shared a cheesecake. Just like everything else at Ci Siamo, this was no simple dessert. It came topped with cream and raisins, adding a unique twist to a classic. It was a delightful end to an amazing dinner.
The bill wasn’t cheap, but for the quality of the food, the wonderful service, and the overall experience, it was well worth the price. I’m already looking forward to going back. If you’re looking for an exceptional Italian meal in Manhattan, I can’t recommend Ci Siamo enough.
