Serafina is a well-known name in the New York City dining scene, with multiple locations offering a taste of Italian cuisine. This review focuses specifically on the Serafina location on the Upper West Side, at 77th street, examining its menu, ambiance, and overall dining experience to help you decide if it's the right spot for your next meal.
The Menu: Classic Italian with a Modern Twist
The Serafina 77th Upper West Side menu offers a wide array of classic Italian dishes, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Expect to find all the favorites:
- Pasta: From simple spaghetti aglio e olio to more elaborate creations featuring seafood or wild mushrooms, the pasta selection is extensive and well-executed. Their signature truffle pasta dishes are frequently praised.
- Pizza: The pizzas are Neapolitan-style, with thin, crispy crusts and a variety of topping options.
- Seafood: Fresh seafood dishes are a highlight, often featuring seasonal selections. Expect dishes like grilled branzino or linguine with clams.
- Meat Dishes: A selection of meat dishes includes classic options like veal parmesan and chicken scarpariello.
- Salads and Appetizers: A nice selection of salads and appetizers offers a lighter option or a perfect start to your meal. The bruschetta is a popular choice.
While the menu sticks to traditional Italian fare, there's a noticeable modern touch in the presentation and some ingredient choices. For example, you might find unexpected combinations of flavors or modern plating techniques.
Ambiance and Atmosphere: Upscale Casual Dining
The Serafina on 77th Street offers an upscale casual dining experience. The restaurant boasts a stylish yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a casual meal with friends. The decor is modern, with warm lighting and comfortable seating. The noise level is typically moderate, allowing for conversation without being overly loud. It's worth noting that the restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, so reservations are highly recommended.
Service: Attentive and Professional
The service at Serafina 77th typically receives positive comments. Servers are generally attentive and professional, providing helpful recommendations and ensuring a smooth dining experience. While the service might be a bit more formal than some other Italian restaurants in the area, it's never overly stiff or pretentious.
Price Point: Mid-Range to Upscale
Serafina falls into the mid-range to upscale category in terms of pricing. While not prohibitively expensive, expect to pay a bit more than you would at a casual neighborhood Italian spot. The quality of the ingredients and the overall dining experience justify the price for many patrons.
Customer Reviews: A Mixed Bag
Online reviews for Serafina 77th are mixed. Many praise the quality of the food, the ambiance, and the service. However, some criticisms include occasional inconsistencies in food quality or service speed, depending on the day and time. This is fairly typical for high-volume restaurants. It's always best to check recent reviews closer to your intended visit date.
Overall Impression: A Solid Choice for Italian on the Upper West Side
Serafina Italian Restaurant on 77th Street offers a reliable and enjoyable dining experience. While not perfect, its strengths—the quality of the food, the pleasant atmosphere, and generally good service—make it a solid choice for Italian cuisine on the Upper West Side. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. The overall experience aligns with the price point, offering a pleasant, if slightly upscale, Italian meal. Remember to check recent online reviews before your visit to get a feel for current customer experiences.
