A New York City institution, open since 1981 by acclaimed chef Lidia Bastianich, Felidia represents the perfect culinary experience with deep Italian roots in the city. The moment you walk into Felidia, you will feel transported to a beautiful mansion with rustic and modern decor where marble and wood dominate the view and where the tables are dressed in elegant white cloths. Felidia’s attention to detail matches its impeccable service; you are greeted by the hostess and shown the way to your table immediately upon arriving. You know you’re in for a fantastic experience…
Today, we let Executive Chef Fortunato Nicotra send us his best creations. The table was set and over the span of 2 hours, we enjoyed a gluten-free, 6 course tasting menu. To pair the delicious food, we also tasted their own Bastianich wines of the program designed by Jeff Taylor (Betony, Eleven Madison Park) considered “Best New Sommelier 2014” by Wine & Spirits.
Tutto crudo was the first course. A fresh and light appetizer to start the experience that included shaved raw tuna, salmon, brazino and vegetables. We then tried another appetizer, an octopus roasted to perfection, with chickpea, pickled onion and panella. I felt like I was back in Italy when the pastas came. A homemade, gluten-free ravioli stuffed with pear and fresh pecorino and topped with crushed black pepper. They call it Cacio e Pere and it’s their take on the typical roman dish, Cacio e Pepe. Following this, we tried another homemade gluten-free pasta, a spinach parpadelle in a Hudson Valley duck and mushroom sauce.
For the main course, the chef brought out the Quaglie Saltimbocca, a perfectly executed quail dish with brussels sprouts and braised red cabbage. A gluten-free burrata cheesecake with poached quince and golden berries was the perfect end to an outstanding meal.
Felidia is the perfect place for a special meal out in Midtown East, where beautiful decor, impeccable service and quality ingredients await.