Gusto Ristorante e Bar Americano

Stumbled on this place on a Monday night and was so glad we did. The atmosphere is chic- sleek black leather banquettes and an amazing modern chandelier. The food was very, very good. The lobster from the raw bar was super fresh and delicious- and the portion was enormous. The branzino was really light and simply prepared- very tasty. Wine was good but I think everything on the list is Italian and would have appreciated some New World items. Service was okay- actually, the food runners and busboys were great and very attentive. My only complaint would be that the fish, while tasty, was literally just that- fish on a plate. Server asked if I wanted any sides with it, which I didn't really understand since there weren't any side choices on the menu, and for $29, a few veggies or something would have been a nice addition. Overall, though, great meal and atmosphere.

Possibly the freshest pasta I've had in NY!! Every dish we had was lovely. Cozy, stylish atmosphere. Delicious meal. Authentic Italian. We plan to go back.

Visited Gusto for lunch during Restaurant Week and really enjoyed my meal. Lunch and a glass of Chianti came to about $45 per person, which in my opinion was well worth for a three course meal. Had the dumplings with ricotta and spinach and they were superb. My favorite though, tiramisu....yum yum!

I recently ate at Gusto and was disappointed with the food, service, atmosphere - everything. We were seated for our 9:30PM reservation at 10:15PM (would have given this place a pass for that if other stuff was good, I get it, Sat. night in NYC, etc.). The host sat us (a group of three couples) at a table for four. We had to advise them on how to arrange the chairs - very unprofessional. Our waiter was nice, but pushed the special too hard. Was very unimpressed with the chewy lobster in a pasta/lobster special that clearly had been a special for at least the two prior days. Rest of the meal was nothing special - meatballs were fair. Tomato/Borata (mozzarella) appetizer was served too cold (borata was not runny).

I recently dined at Gusto with friends and had a fantastic time. Our waiter was charming and I loved my cocktail. The food was inventive and delicious. The chef came around and spoke to us, which is always a treat. I will definitely return.

I love this place. I love the people. I love the food. This is the highest compliment I can give to an italian restaurant in the United States, "This is a real Italian restaurant". The dishes make me feel like I'm in Italy and being pampered with some of their best dishes. Especially the risotto con gorgonzola e pere. This is my destination place.

So...waited a half hour for my drink. I like to drink. I could've probably consumed three in that time. I eventually had to stand up and find my waiter. It was free but seriously I like to drink. Food was ho-hum.