Caffe Falai

Restaurant/cafe

265 Lafayette Street
10012 - 40 New York
United States

Phone: (212) 274-8615

Website: http://falainyc.com/caffe/

Opening times:
Sun 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Mon 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Tue 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Wed 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Thu 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
Fri 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
Sat 11:00 am - 11:00 pm

In his early career Iacopo Falai spent five years working at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a three-Michelin-starred Florentine restaurant, taking time to consult for Matsuya in Tokyo. Next Iacopo traveled to France, collaborating w/ renowned Chef Michel Belin.

The Scene :

One couldn't be blamed for calling the decor at Iacopo Falai's three eponymous Manhattan ventures chic. Everything at this cafe gleams white--the tiles covering the walls, the sparkling chandeliers hanging above the bar seating, even the mirror frames. In fact, pretty much the only color deviations come courtesy of shiny silver water pitchers and the multihued shopping bags of Soho day-trippers resting their Prada-clad feet.

The Food :

If the space is monochromatic, the light, fresh and frequently changing Italian menu presents a kaleidoscope of flavors. Seared tuna medallions in a salad balance the fish's subtle flavor with a kicky spice rub, while tender beets freshen up fried mozzarella slabs. Smoky pancetta anchors two dishes: a pasta dish made with ribbons of soft, house-made buckwheat parpadelle, sun-dried cherry tomatoes and broccoli rabe, and a moist branzino filet reposing in a basil-flecked sauce. Bombolones, golf ball-shaped pastries filled with jelly, are Gucci belt-loosening good.