SilkCity

Hi, I was the poster who is a Rao's regular. The roasted peppers, pasta w/broccoli rabe & sausage; lemon chicken and meatballs are all Neapolitan perfection! Enjoy

He's a true charm in person!!!

Yes, it does share common ownership (hence: decor, fare), and approaches (though, doesn't quite match) Il Mulino at a considerably less-expensive ticket. Give it another shot, per favore!

What Rao's does (good, earthy Neapolitan faves: roasted peppers w/raisins (!), pine nuts and mozzarella; seafood salad; pasta w/broccoli rabe & sausage; "Lemon" chicken, e.g.), it does perfectly; as do my other stated faves, Lupa, Il Mulino, etc. with their specialties. There is something to be said for consistency and qualities; no surprises--but, then, againn, no unanticipated thrills, either!! P.S. Il Giglio has become another fave and, given its location with the attendant business fall-off, I suggest a visit

I think the "Pubs" posts brought Rao's to mind as I do consider it in the "pub" vein; though more aptly a Neapolitan "joint" (as the owner is fond of calling it). I do admire all the foodies on this board who are able to keep up with the latest places. I am probably more indolent than you; sticking to my neighborhood (5th Ave/Wash Sq) regular spots (Lupa, Babbo, Il Mulino, Tiro a Segno), and venturing up-town for Boulud's 3 places and, of course, Rao's. Rao's, more than anything, is a "club" of only 50 seats, where the usual restaurant analysis (especially, decor, service) takes a far back seat to the familiar and "familial" (it helps GREATLY to be Italian) atmosphere. Even forgetting the celebrity aspect, the experience (after 150 or so visits) remains special: it is always festive and without pretension.

As a Rao's regular, I'd be interested in hearing about others' experiences. Any others who have breached the inner sanctum of this Neapolitan delight?

All nyc pizza-lovers: take a trip (NJ Transit via train!) to "Vic's" in Bradley Beach, NJ; you may discard your return-trip ticket!! It's that good