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When you come here, imagine eating at a true italian family's dinner table with excellent food, no frill vibes, a place to chat and be lively with your friends/loved ones, excellent wine... I mean this is a special place. The food tastes like love. It tastes like someone who loves food, who's honoring their roots and their families in the best way possible. Even the menu highlights a quip "with my family's special sauce" or something to that effect. Everything was delicious, from the creamy, savory burrata (which I don't usually even like burrata) that goes with the tender, thin, delicate prosciutto and JUICY ripe, sweet, naturally savory tomatoes (wow), to the salsiccia and broccoli rabe that keeps that nice tender bitterness, and the spicy calamari with that gentle crumbly fry, fresh bread and of course al dente perfectly cooked cavatelli. I could go on and on. Il Posto Accanto. you are a hidden gem. keep up the great work!
TL;DR: Overpriced food, tiny portions, and Julio Pena is one of the rudest restaurant owners I've ever dealt with. The food was disappointing, but the owner's behavior completely ruined the experience. Save yourself the trouble and go to the cash-only Italian spot next door instead. ------------------------------------------ I don't typically leave reviews, but this experience was so negative it genuinely warranted one. My friend and I came here late at night after a poetry event because we were craving Italian food. We actually tried two other nearby Italian restaurants first, but they were cash only, so we ended up here because they accepted cards. From the start, the service felt awkward. We asked the waiter for recommendations, but he couldn't really explain the dishes or give much insight into the menu. I wanted a pasta dish with a tomato-based sauce and some kind of meat/protein. I was interested in the Scialatielli, but when I asked if grilled chicken could be added, I was told they could only place it on the side and wouldn't toss it in the sauce. Personally, I hate that because the meat never absorbs the flavor properly when it's done that way. Because of that, I decided to order the Tortelloni Di Coda (oxtail pasta) instead since it already came with meat included. When the dish came out, I was honestly shocked. It was three tiny pieces of pasta sitting in brown sauce looking completely unappetizing, for $30. I rarely ever send food back, but this was one of the few times I genuinely felt uncomfortable even trying to eat it. I initially asked the waiter if there was any way I could order something else instead, and he apologized and said there wasn't really anything he could do because the dish had already been made. I said okay and thanked him. After he walked away, my friend looked at me and the dish and was basically like, "That doesn't look good, and you clearly do not want to eat that." She insisted we call him back over and send it back. When he came back, he said he'd go get the owner, Julio Pena, and again, I thanked him. The owner immediately came over angry before I had even said a word to him. Instead of asking what the issue was, he launched into a long rant about how his wife cooks the food, how inconvenient it was to remake dishes, and how they'd now have to drive to the Bronx for more supplies. After his whole monologue, he ended it with, "But yes, we'll take it off." I said "thank you," trying to stay respectful, and he immediately responded with, "No, don't thank me because..." before launching right back into berating me again. The entire interaction felt like a weird power trip over a politely returned plate of pasta. What made it worse was that after his rant, I told the waiter I'd settle for the Scialatielli with the meat on the side, attempting to move on from the situation, but once the waiter informed the owner he then started loudly complaining about us to a patron and repeatedly yelling "Is it on the menu?" regarding my new modified order. At that point, I canceled the replacement entirely because I no longer felt comfortable giving this restaurant my money. After leaving, I checked the restaurant's Instagram and reviews, and honestly, the behavior started making sense. As pictured, the owner openly posts videos bragging about kicking customers out and arguing with people, and his review responses show him fighting with customers in all caps. Clearly this isn't a one-time thing. Also, I literally just came back from visiting Venice, Milan, and Florence last month, so this is not a case of me "not understanding authentic Italian food." I ate at plenty of restaurants there, and nowhere there, even at mediocre restaurants, was I served a pasta dish that looked this bad. There's another Italian restaurant right next door. It's cash only, but next time I'll gladly bring cash and go there instead. Overall, this was one of the most uncomfortable dining experiences I've had in a long time.
BRO, THIS IS 1000000000/10! Me and the girls had the best time! The best couple running this delicious and magical place. The service was "terrible," watch out for their humor. They're SO F(P)UNNY!!!!!!!! I can't wait to come back here. It was just everything you can ask for New York City with great food, great vibes, and great service!
Been there a few times since my last review. After visiting mom, spouse an I just walked in yesterday for dinner with no reservation & were seated immediately. This is August the place was kind of "empty" city folk out in the Hamptons, Jersey shore or Cape Cod...unlike the other nine months of the year where you may have to wait, even with a reservation We ordered the Grilled Calamari (not negotiable dish for me) and one of the days special - Veal with Artichoke & Spinach (portions are generous, we split). The bread came out, focaccia & sourdough EVOO... All was deeeelllllllissshhhh, the veal was slightly on the chewy side GO! if your in Alphabet City NYC
I have a friend who's a musician, and I came here back in March with his family for a late night bite. I had already eaten dinner earlier in the night, so I wanted something small. The Polpettini Di Melanzane instantly caught my eye- eggplant croquettes with tomato sauce, basil, and burrata. It was perfectly crispy on the outside while soft and pillowy on the inside, and had great flavor. They give each table complimentary focaccia bread and oil, which was also delicious. I'm very particular about bread, and I could tell their bread was homemade. It was crisp while still being chewy on the inside, and had the perfect touch of salt to balance it all out. Our waiter was friendly and attentive, but since we were a large group and the restaurant was crowded that night, we did wait around 15-20 minutes for a table. But they accommodated us, and the food was worth the wait. If you're in the area and are looking for a nice dinner spot, I'd definitely recommend this! It seems like the perfect date night spot, or even just a night out with friends.
This tiny little Italian restaurant was well decorated and such a cute spot! You can only make a reservation by calling but we were seated immediately when we arrived. The bread was decent but I wish the focaccia was crispier as it was a little soft. And it was kind of odd that for 4 people they had 1 extra random slice of a different bread. We shared the eggplant croquettes which were delicious with a crispy outside and flavorful interior (10/10) The pastas were 10/10. The noodles were cooked perfectly (a little bit more than al dente for me) and the sauce was delicious! I got the tagliolini al sapore di mare and really enjoyed the seafood on top!
It's been a few years since my last visit to Il Posto Accanto, and all I'm left thinking after my visit is, "Why did I wait so damn long to return?" Everything I remembered about the superb (I mean horrible) food, hasn't changed one bit! We tried the Burrata and Fig Crostini and Scallop special, and both were divine! The hubby also tried the meatballs, and I went with the Tagliolini Al Sapore Di Mare, which had developed such a depth of garlic and seafood deliciousness in each and every bite. As if we hadn't eaten enough, we ended our meal with a silky Pannacotta with Berries. I can't wait to return to eat more of their disgusting food
I was just discussing authentic Italian restaurants in the city with some Italian friends. I went on Yelp and noticed I never review Il Post Accent although Ive been here many times when we lived in Manhattan prior to Covid. I had some photos and nice memories so guess it's better late than never to share them. Great food and wine at this nice family place.
I returned to Posto Acanto recently and it was just as amazing as the first time. The food is fantastic, real Italian as good as what I ate in Rome. I again had the calamari a la griglia, since I enjoyed it so much the last time I was there. It is so good. The service is great with friendly servers and the ambience is outstanding as what you can expect from the city. Lots of people enjoying the food and friendship. I guess im lucky because again I found parking easily right by the restaurant. Only street parking unfortunately but if you're patient you will find one. A really cozy spot for a great meal and drinks. Stop by you won't be disappointed.
First place we want to dine at when coming into town from LA. Great food, great vibes, even better people. Anything you order here will be delicious but we always make sure to order the grilled calamari and reserve a slice of lasagna when coming in on sunday. (I specifically plan to be here on a sunday when coming to NY) their food and hospitality make the 5 hour flight worth it every time!!
Fab meal. Lovely welcoming staff with the owner around making sure everyone is having a great time. The bread was nice at the start and we enjoyed the polenta appetizer. The squash blossoms didn't hit the mark, i personally don't think the tempura batter was too thick and the mozzarella cheese didn't work well. We both enjoyed our main dishes, with the spaghetti being so unlike anything I've had before - I would highly recommend if you like fish flavor. The wine was lovely too. A little pricey, but appreciate all the homemade elements come at a cost. Would absolutely go back.
Lovely neighborhood spot that slings out legit Italian food. Il Posto Accanto is the quintessential neighborhood spot. It's not flashy, it's not the most hyped restaurant in the city, but it does deliver great Italian food, time after time. Look to the specials, there are always some and they are always seasonal and interesting. The pasta here is great, executed simply and well. We had a chicken liver crostini that was also served simply, but incredibly delicious. Highly recommend this spot. read more
Business owner information
Julio P.
Thank you for getting us , your love is appreciated.
A great authentic Italian restaurant Ambience: I have to start with the vibe of this place which is intimate and cozy! You can feel the authenticity with how the waiters speak to you and the homeyness of how some of the wait staff spoke to us! You can tell they have so much pride for what they are serving. We at the bar next to a local that definitely frequented this place, which was a great sign! Food: good food! I got the cavatelli which was absolutely delicious! We also got the specials: cod and sausage! Both were delicious! Extremely well flavored and hearty Drinks: they have a great wine selection and some cocktails! We got some good wine and we're glad about the sizes they offered Service: good, fast, fun! Price: a bit pricey. The specials don't list the prices, but the portion sizes were good! read more
1 year ago
When you come here, imagine eating at a true italian family's dinner table with excellent food, no frill vibes, a place to chat and be lively with your friends/loved ones, excellent wine... I mean this is a special place. The food tastes like love. It tastes like someone who loves food, who's honoring their roots and their families in the best way possible. Even the menu highlights a quip "with my family's special sauce" or something to that effect. Everything was delicious, from the creamy, savory burrata (which I don't usually even like burrata) that goes with the tender, thin, delicate prosciutto and JUICY ripe, sweet, naturally savory tomatoes (wow), to the salsiccia and broccoli rabe that keeps that nice tender bitterness, and the spicy calamari with that gentle crumbly fry, fresh bread and of course al dente perfectly cooked cavatelli. I could go on and on. Il Posto Accanto. you are a hidden gem. keep up the great work! read more
5 months ago
TL;DR: Overpriced food, tiny portions, and Julio Pena is one of the rudest restaurant owners I've ever dealt with. The food was disappointing, but the owner's behavior completely ruined the experience. Save yourself the trouble and go to the cash-only Italian spot next door instead. ------------------------------------------ I don't typically leave reviews, but this experience was so negative it genuinely warranted one. My friend and I came here late at night after a poetry event because we were craving Italian food. We actually tried two other nearby Italian restaurants first, but they were cash only, so we ended up here because they accepted cards. From the start, the service felt awkward. We asked the waiter for recommendations, but he couldn't really explain the dishes or give much insight into the menu. I wanted a pasta dish with a tomato-based sauce and some kind of meat/protein. I was interested in the Scialatielli, but when I asked if grilled chicken could be added, I was told they could only place it on the side and wouldn't toss it in the sauce. Personally, I hate that because the meat never absorbs the flavor properly when it's done that way. Because of that, I decided to order the Tortelloni Di Coda (oxtail pasta) instead since it already came with meat included. When the dish came out, I was honestly shocked. It was three tiny pieces of pasta sitting in brown sauce looking completely unappetizing, for $30. I rarely ever send food back, but this was one of the few times I genuinely felt uncomfortable even trying to eat it. I initially asked the waiter if there was any way I could order something else instead, and he apologized and said there wasn't really anything he could do because the dish had already been made. I said okay and thanked him. After he walked away, my friend looked at me and the dish and was basically like, "That doesn't look good, and you clearly do not want to eat that." She insisted we call him back over and send it back. When he came back, he said he'd go get the owner, Julio Pena, and again, I thanked him. The owner immediately came over angry before I had even said a word to him. Instead of asking what the issue was, he launched into a long rant about how his wife cooks the food, how inconvenient it was to remake dishes, and how they'd now have to drive to the Bronx for more supplies. After his whole monologue, he ended it with, "But yes, we'll take it off." I said "thank you," trying to stay respectful, and he immediately responded with, "No, don't thank me because..." before launching right back into berating me again. The entire interaction felt like a weird power trip over a politely returned plate of pasta. What made it worse was that after his rant, I told the waiter I'd settle for the Scialatielli with the meat on the side, attempting to move on from the situation, but once the waiter informed the owner he then started loudly complaining about us to a patron and repeatedly yelling "Is it on the menu?" regarding my new modified order. At that point, I canceled the replacement entirely because I no longer felt comfortable giving this restaurant my money. After leaving, I checked the restaurant's Instagram and reviews, and honestly, the behavior started making sense. As pictured, the owner openly posts videos bragging about kicking customers out and arguing with people, and his review responses show him fighting with customers in all caps. Clearly this isn't a one-time thing. Also, I literally just came back from visiting Venice, Milan, and Florence last month, so this is not a case of me "not understanding authentic Italian food." I ate at plenty of restaurants there, and nowhere there, even at mediocre restaurants, was I served a pasta dish that looked this bad. There's another Italian restaurant right next door. It's cash only, but next time I'll gladly bring cash and go there instead. Overall, this was one of the most uncomfortable dining experiences I've had in a long time. read more
1 year ago
BRO, THIS IS 1000000000/10! Me and the girls had the best time! The best couple running this delicious and magical place. The service was "terrible," watch out for their humor. They're SO F(P)UNNY!!!!!!!! I can't wait to come back here. It was just everything you can ask for New York City with great food, great vibes, and great service! read more
4 months ago
7 months ago
4 months ago
I called Julio to say we were stuck in gridlock. He said do t worry we will figure it out just come. We were seated immediately. Had some solid drinks, great food and service. A romantic setting down in the village. read more
Been there a few times since my last review. After visiting mom, spouse an I just walked in yesterday for dinner with no reservation & were seated immediately. This is August the place was kind of "empty" city folk out in the Hamptons, Jersey shore or Cape Cod...unlike the other nine months of the year where you may have to wait, even with a reservation We ordered the Grilled Calamari (not negotiable dish for me) and one of the days special - Veal with Artichoke & Spinach (portions are generous, we split). The bread came out, focaccia & sourdough EVOO... All was deeeelllllllissshhhh, the veal was slightly on the chewy side GO! if your in Alphabet City NYC read more
I have a friend who's a musician, and I came here back in March with his family for a late night bite. I had already eaten dinner earlier in the night, so I wanted something small. The Polpettini Di Melanzane instantly caught my eye- eggplant croquettes with tomato sauce, basil, and burrata. It was perfectly crispy on the outside while soft and pillowy on the inside, and had great flavor. They give each table complimentary focaccia bread and oil, which was also delicious. I'm very particular about bread, and I could tell their bread was homemade. It was crisp while still being chewy on the inside, and had the perfect touch of salt to balance it all out. Our waiter was friendly and attentive, but since we were a large group and the restaurant was crowded that night, we did wait around 15-20 minutes for a table. But they accommodated us, and the food was worth the wait. If you're in the area and are looking for a nice dinner spot, I'd definitely recommend this! It seems like the perfect date night spot, or even just a night out with friends. read more
This tiny little Italian restaurant was well decorated and such a cute spot! You can only make a reservation by calling but we were seated immediately when we arrived. The bread was decent but I wish the focaccia was crispier as it was a little soft. And it was kind of odd that for 4 people they had 1 extra random slice of a different bread. We shared the eggplant croquettes which were delicious with a crispy outside and flavorful interior (10/10) The pastas were 10/10. The noodles were cooked perfectly (a little bit more than al dente for me) and the sauce was delicious! I got the tagliolini al sapore di mare and really enjoyed the seafood on top! read more
It's been a few years since my last visit to Il Posto Accanto, and all I'm left thinking after my visit is, "Why did I wait so damn long to return?" Everything I remembered about the superb (I mean horrible) food, hasn't changed one bit! We tried the Burrata and Fig Crostini and Scallop special, and both were divine! The hubby also tried the meatballs, and I went with the Tagliolini Al Sapore Di Mare, which had developed such a depth of garlic and seafood deliciousness in each and every bite. As if we hadn't eaten enough, we ended our meal with a silky Pannacotta with Berries. I can't wait to return to eat more of their disgusting food read more
3 months ago
I was just discussing authentic Italian restaurants in the city with some Italian friends. I went on Yelp and noticed I never review Il Post Accent although Ive been here many times when we lived in Manhattan prior to Covid. I had some photos and nice memories so guess it's better late than never to share them. Great food and wine at this nice family place. read more
3 months ago
2 years ago
I returned to Posto Acanto recently and it was just as amazing as the first time. The food is fantastic, real Italian as good as what I ate in Rome. I again had the calamari a la griglia, since I enjoyed it so much the last time I was there. It is so good. The service is great with friendly servers and the ambience is outstanding as what you can expect from the city. Lots of people enjoying the food and friendship. I guess im lucky because again I found parking easily right by the restaurant. Only street parking unfortunately but if you're patient you will find one. A really cozy spot for a great meal and drinks. Stop by you won't be disappointed. read more
9 months ago
First place we want to dine at when coming into town from LA. Great food, great vibes, even better people. Anything you order here will be delicious but we always make sure to order the grilled calamari and reserve a slice of lasagna when coming in on sunday. (I specifically plan to be here on a sunday when coming to NY) their food and hospitality make the 5 hour flight worth it every time!! read more
Fab meal. Lovely welcoming staff with the owner around making sure everyone is having a great time. The bread was nice at the start and we enjoyed the polenta appetizer. The squash blossoms didn't hit the mark, i personally don't think the tempura batter was too thick and the mozzarella cheese didn't work well. We both enjoyed our main dishes, with the spaghetti being so unlike anything I've had before - I would highly recommend if you like fish flavor. The wine was lovely too. A little pricey, but appreciate all the homemade elements come at a cost. Would absolutely go back. read more
9 months ago
Always my favorite place to visit when we come to New York. We always make sure to reserve a piece of lasagna when making our reservation. Every time I come I get the lasagna and one other new plate so I can try everything and everything is always so good. We had a reservation at 7pm on a Sunday. Atmosphere is always great, always a lot of regulars who are very friendly. Julio is a great host. Can't recommend this place enough. Our server / bartender Ricardo was also amazing read more
4 months ago
1 year ago
Brought my overseas friends here for a casual dinner. We sat at the outside seating and it was great for a summer evening. I wasn't too hungry so I just got one pasta dish - the tagliolini with shrimp. This is so good on a summer day as the lemon zest and fresh tomato make it so refreshing - I actually enjoyed the tagliolini even more than the shrimps in the dish. They also have a decent wine list and we enjoyed our dolcetto d'alba. For dessert we ordered to share the tiramisu, pannacotta and the chocolate caramel crunch tart, all of them are delicious and meet the expectation you would have for an authentic version of these desserts from an italian restaurant. A neighborhood gem at reasonable prices and I would surely come again. read more
5 months ago
Business owner information
Julio P.
So sorry that you felt ill and that you had to wait for your table…
1 year ago
7 months ago
7 months ago
2 years ago
I want to give them 10 stars! Every bite you feel like your first org____- you know what I mean. I don't get where they find, how they come up with the flavors. We had 2 specials and I can't really describe them - one was a complicated yet easy to eat sandwich kind of thing w the only best buffalo mozzarella I've ever tasted. The other was a salad made with more, uh, salad stuff, green and red and orange and gigantically wonderful made by Modigliani in their kitchen. Who knew Italians made fondue? We luckily had so many fantastical dishes that we got to bring most of the exquisite Fonduta Valdostana home. I'm having all i can do to keep out of the kitchen and luxuriate in some kind of I don't know what but better than fontina cheese. And oh chripes, the CAVATELLI DI RICOTTA FATTI IN CASA! Look, I'm no food writer - all i can say is I'm having a hard time concentrating due to my extreme desire to eat more of it! Now! A perfectly simpatico feel, NOT nouvelle cuisine thank dog, and if there were any masters of the universe libertarian types - they laid low and ate, and didn't upset the vibe one tich. Ten Stars, a Hundred Kisses and THANK YOU so much for putting this hard to imagine amount of care into your food, Julio and Bea - and all the staff - the two extra lovely behind the bar - tutti qui!! See youse soon. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
This restaurant has some of the best food I've had in my life. It is owned by a very sweet Italian couple with of course, authentic Italian food. I came here with my father and sister. The outside of the shop is easy to miss, but once you go inside you will be amazed by all the gorgeous Chinese lantern lights and other decorations. There is a bar on the right side, but you can order drinks at your table if you don't want to sit there. We ordered a variety of food, but the one thing that stuck with me was the Calamari Alla Griglia. It wasn't fried like it usually is at other place, it was marinated and grilled. It was very soft and tender and SO FLAVORFUL. This was also the best calamari or squid I have ever had. I highly recommend coming here, and trying this is a must. We also ordered Cavatelli di Ricotta Fatti in Casa, Tortellini with Ox Tail, Polpo Alla Griglia, Crudo di Tonno Con Avocado E Agrumi, Crocchette di Baccala' al Curry, and for dessert we got the Tiramisu. It is pricey, but very much worth it! I will definitely be coming back soon. read more
We were in town for Winter Jazz Fest and looking for a place for dinner near the venue. Originally our reservation was for 4 but our party doubled in size and the owner Julio was gracious and accommodating and sat us all together. We started with a few appetizers-and everything was amazing! I usually pass on Burrata salads especially when tomatoes are out of season but this one was sooooo good, the calamari was perfectly cooked and full of flavor, the beet salad and mixed salad were perfect, too. We all chose pastas for entrees and everyone loved their selection. I had - what was hands down THE BEST LASAGNA I have ever eaten! 10 layers of perfect deliciousness. I cannot wait to return and bring more friends. Our whole experience was lovely. read more
2 years ago
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More info about Il Posto Accanto
190 E 2nd St
New York, NY 10009
Alphabet City, East Village
Directions
(212) 228-3562
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http://www.ilpostoaccantonyc.com
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Ask the Community - Il Posto Accanto
Looked at website. did not see that any of the wine had by the glass. Do you have to get a bottle?
No, good selection by the glass.
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