Seemor
Il CantinoriB+Worth Trying
32 E 10th St, New York, NY 10003
· Italian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (497 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A classic downtown Italian spot with warm hospitality and lively Old New York ambiance; food is solid but pricing is high and service can be inconsistent on busy nights.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Il Cantinori delivers above-average food quality anchored by standout handmade pastas and charcoal-grilled seafood, but inconsistent execution—particularly on busy Saturday nights—prevents a higher grade. The classic Old New York ambiance and genuine hospitality from the host team create real charm, though tight tables and service variability during peak hours limit the overall experience. Worth planning for if you embrace the lively, bustling scene and avoid peak nights.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, with candles, flowers, and that Old New York glow. Servers glide through tight tables, and regulars greet the host by name. One diner summed it up: "The staff made us feel like family," while another cautioned it can be very loud at peak. Expect a lively scene more than a hushed temple of cuisine. Cooking leans classic and ingredient-focused—handmade pastas, charcoal-grilled fish, and a rotating slate of specials rather than theatrics. Standouts like pappardelle alla buttera and truffle-rich rotolo earn repeat love, though a few felt the flavors did not always meet the price tag. Service can be charming and guided, but on Saturday nights, wait times and attentiveness can slide. Families can make it work thanks to simple pastas, grilled proteins, and willingness to customize, but there is no formal kids menu and the room is tight. If your crew is noise-sensitive or needs space for strollers, aim for an earlier seating and stick to straightforward pasta and grilled items.
At a Glance
- Classic downtown ambiance with genuine hospitality from the host team
- Standout handmade pastas; pappardelle alla buttera is a fan favorite
- Loud and tightly spaced, especially on weekends
- Service can be inconsistent during peak hours
- Pricing is high for the category; expect $85-120 per person before drinks
What Sets It Apart
- old_new_york_ambiance
- hands-on_maitre_d_hospitality
- daily_specials_and_off_menu_curation
What People Love
- Warm, welcoming host presence
- Old New York vibe with candles and buzz
- Rich, comforting pastas with house touches
- Servers who curate specials and off-menu samplers
- Reliable spot for special occasions
Points of Concern
- Noise and tight spacing can hamper conversation on weekends
- Service lapses reported at peak times, including slow dessert menus and delayed entrées
- Some dishes called mediocre relative to premium prices
- Isolated complaints about overcooked items and flat flavors
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$85-120 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Vegetarians have ample choices: burrata, grilled vegetables, multiple pastas, and risotti
- Seafood fans: spaghetti alle vongole, grilled swordfish, and seafood risotto
- Value-conscious diners: choose one shared appetizer and a mid-priced pasta
Perfect For
- Date night in a classic downtown room
- Celebrating milestones with nostalgic Italian favorites
- Entertaining out-of-town guests who want Old New York
- A leisurely midweek dinner with guided specials
Location Insights
Area: Lively downtown block near NYU and Union Square; classic NoHo vibe with upscale crowd and date-night traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked evenings; typical Manhattan bustle with good lighting.
Nearby: Close to NYU, Union Square, boutique shops, cocktail bars; mix of locals and destination diners.
East VillageThe East Village is known for its vibrant, eclectic dining scene featuring a mix of casual eateries, trendy restaurants, and bars. It has a lively social atmosphere with a strong artistic and bohemian influence, attracting a youthful and creative crowd. The area is walkable, accessible by multiple subway lines, and considered generally safe with a dynamic nightlife.
St. Mark's PlaceSt. Mark's Place is a famous stretch within the East Village known for its quirky shops, casual dining spots, and nightlife venues. It has a distinctly youthful and alternative vibe, often bustling with activity and street life.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:45, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–14:45, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–14:45, 17:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–14:45, 17:00–22:00
Friday12:00–14:45, 17:00–23:00
Saturday17:00–23:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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