Last fall at New York City Wine & Food Festival, I met Chef Joe Isidori, owner of Arthur & Sons. Always the showman, Isidori was holding a sign that read “Ballz” yelling to the crowd that his meatballs were the best in the world. With that type of endorsement, I had to try them. As I approached the table, I was greeted by Isidori sprinkling parmesan through the air, creating a magical Italian wonderland. I’ve been thinking about those famous meatballs since last October when I vowed to taste the rest of the menu. And Friday night I had the opportunity.
Nothing is better than a hot summer night in the city. Upon entering the restaurant I was greeted by the sound of a mix of 90s hip hop and Italian classics like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. The music was reflective in the atmosphere created merging Old School tradition with a trendy vibe. The service was welcoming and attentive. Since I had been dreaming about those meatballs, we began with meatballs ricotta. Next, we tried an assortment of appetizers: the eggplant stack that has been made Insta famous, the creamy burrata with arugula & tomato and Caesar salad with shrimp. For entrees, we ordered the linguine & clams and the spicy rigatoni alla vodka.
Arthur & Sons just celebrated their one-anniversary. Visit them in the West Village on your next trip to the city for a taste of Old School New York Italian.
