Best Cheap Italian Restaurant in New York City’s East Village. Il Bagatto!

So, y’all know I’m a girl of few words… this restaurant rocks. There are few places in NYC that I’ve returned to over 5 times in the past 4 years since there are so many places to try and if I’m going to spend some money then I’m going to want to try somewhere new–Il Bagatto is the exception to the rule. Its food is delectable, ambiance is romantic, its wine selection is plentiful, it takes reservations (unlike Supper down the street) and its prices are CHEAP! The pastas are delicious and stay true to their Italian roots (no cheese on pasta with seafood–seriously, they won’t give it to you!). The calamari is my favorite appetizer, grilled with lemon, herbs and spices.It’s heaven. There are always tons of options made with the freshest seafood ingredients.

Bruschetta is $5.50, Calamari is $12, Pastas range from 12-15. Just be careful when ordering specials because sometimes they tend to be pricier, which you may  not guess due to the reasonableness of the rest of the menu. Just ask though, the staff is great.

Added bonus, the upstairs is open in the summer and the basement is romantic and covered in twinkle lights in the winter. There is also a DJ downstairs spinning great tunes. Perfect place to take a date! The wine is also very reasonably priced (don’t remember the prices, shoot).

192 E. 2nd St., New York, NY 10009 near Ave. B

Buon Appetito!