Set the Scene
Located steps from Madison Square Park, ‘ino reimagines the intimacy of the modern Italian eatery as dictated by Bottino, the beloved West Chelsea institution from restaurateur Danny Emerman. Designed by acclaimed architect Thomas Leeser, who shaped Bottino’s enduring aesthetic, ‘ino feels like both a continuation and a reinvention–smaller in scale, yet no less ambitious in spirit.
The space exudes mid-century sophistication: white brick walls gleam under a central skylight, while Cherner chairs and black-stained ash tables evoke subtle refinement. At the entrance, the marble bar framed by shelves of wine recalls Bottino’s convivial energy, reimagined for the buzziness of Flatiron.
Textural contrasts–Shou Sugi Ban wood charred to a smoky finish and warm uplighting create a grounded and dynamic atmosphere. Further blurring the line between dining and design, rotating art installations curated with Gemini G.E.L. at Joni Weyl transform the space into a living gallery.
The Food & Drink Assessment
The culinary program–overseen by Emerman and Chef Jamie Kenyon–is grounded in Italian technique and spirit, infused also with Chef Jamie’s English heritage. The result is cuisine that speaks to comfort and curiosity in equal measure.
The menu embraces seasonality, with ingredients sourced directly from the Union Square Greenmarket. Dishes like Duck, Duck, Goose – a playful nod to the Scotch egg – blend British whimsy with Italian precision, while Crispy Mozzarella with prosciutto, pesto, spicy fig mostarda, and scallion is akin to an adult version of a mozzarella stick.
Each of the housemade pastas feels personal and expressive: Rigatoni with braised octopus, cherry tomato, and bone marrow breadcrumbs bridges sea and soil; Orecchiette with Berkshire pork crumble, broccoli rabe, and pecorino is surprisingly light and quite Tuscan in nature.
The wine list – a thoughtful curation of small growers and artisanal producers – favors discovery over familiarity, inviting guests to linger glass by glass. Wine specials crop up more often than not. The cocktail program combines British and Italian classics enlivened by market finds. The Negroni al Tè, infused with Earl Grey, offers a refined twist on tradition; the Gin & Tonic Verde, layered with basil and chartreuse, captures the restaurant’s signature freshness.
Final Thoughts
Every aspect of ‘ino, from the pasta to the paintings, tells a story of reinvention rooted in craft, and tradition finds a new rhythm.
Fast Facts
Location: Flatiron – 31 E 20th St, New York, NY
Cuisine: Italian
The Vibes: Italian warmth meets British wit in an artful and intimate setting
Pricing: $
Reservations: Recommended via Resy, though walk-ins are welcome
Standout dishes: The Crispy Mozzarella provides adults the same joy as the classic mozzarella, and be sure to try the Rigatoni with braised octopus and cherry tomatoes.
Attire: Smart Casual
Hours: Aperitivo Hour takes place Monday through Saturday from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM; Dinner is served Monday through Saturday from 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
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