A Legacy Reborn from the Ashes (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Greenwich Village, New York – Amid the cozy glow of historic townhouses, Babbo stirs back to life, promising evenings filled with the rich aromas of simmering sauces and fresh pasta.
A Legacy Reborn from the Ashes
Imagine a restaurant that once defined Italian dining in New York, only to fade into uncertainty after its founder’s fall. That’s Babbo for you, the spot that Mario Batali turned into a sensation back in the early 2000s. Now, after years of quiet, it’s gearing up for a fresh chapter that has food lovers buzzing.
The original Babbo captured hearts with its bold flavors and innovative twists on classics. Yet, the 2017 scandals surrounding Batali led to its closure, leaving a void in the city’s culinary scene. Stephen Starr, the restaurateur behind hits like Buddakan, stepped in to revive it, aiming to honor the past while charting a new course.
Mark Ladner Steps into the Spotlight
At the heart of this revival is Mark Ladner, a chef whose name carries weight in New York’s Italian circles. Ladner started under Batali at Lupa and rose to lead the acclaimed Del Posto, earning Michelin stars along the way. His return to Babbo feels like coming home, but with a refined edge honed from years of evolution.
Ladner isn’t just cooking; he’s reimagining. Drawing from Del Posto’s sophistication, he plans a menu that’s accessible yet elevated. Fans remember his precision with pasta, and he’s eager to bring that same passion to Babbo’s kitchen once more.
Dishes That Promise to Wow
What makes a reopening exciting? For Babbo, it’s the food. Ladner’s lineup nods to tradition but adds his signature finesse, like a minestrone soup that ferments for a full 49 days to build deep, layered flavors. Then there’s the legendary 100-layer lasagna, a labor of love that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Don’t miss the crudos served in delicate Venetian glass, showcasing seasonal fish with bright, citrusy accents. Beef-cheek ravioli returns as a comforting staple, stuffed with tender meat in a velvety sauce. Risotto rounds out the stars, creamy and perfectly al dente.
- Seasonal crudi: Fresh and zesty starters.
- Beef-cheek ravioli: Rich, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
- 100-layer lasagna: A towering tribute to pasta artistry.
- 49-day minestrone: Umami-packed soup with time as the secret ingredient.
- House risotto: Silky and full of seasonal gems.
The Space: Timeless Charm Meets Modern Polish
Step inside, and you’ll find a two-story haven that screams old-school elegance. The Greenwich Village townhouse, once home to the Coach House for decades, retains its warm wood panels and intimate nooks. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow as easily as the wine.
Tizzy Beck oversees the front of house, ensuring smooth service amid the buzz. Starr’s touch keeps things polished without losing soul. Reservations are already hot, so book early if you want in on opening night.
Navigating the Buzz and Backlash
Not everyone’s thrilled without reservations – pun intended. Online chatter mixes excitement with skepticism, given Babbo’s history. Some wonder if Ladner can shake off the Batali shadow, while others celebrate the chance for redemption through great food.
Starr’s track record helps ease doubts; he’s revived spots before with flair. Labor talks have popped up too, with Scabby the Rat making a cameo outside, signaling union pushes. Still, the focus remains on the plates and the people drawing crowds.
Why Babbo Matters Now More Than Ever
In a city overflowing with options, Babbo’s return underscores the pull of authentic Italian fare done right. It’s a reminder that good restaurants endure, evolving with their chefs and times. Ladner’s vision could redefine what fine dining feels like in 2025 – approachable, delicious, and deeply satisfying.
Key Takeaways
- Babbo reopens under Stephen Starr’s ownership, with Mark Ladner leading the kitchen.
- Expect refined Italian classics like 100-layer lasagna and long-fermented minestrone.
- The Greenwich Village spot blends historic charm with modern elegance – reservations essential.
As Babbo fires up its stoves, it invites New Yorkers to rediscover joy in shared meals. This isn’t just a reopening; it’s a celebration of resilience in the restaurant world. What’s your take on Ladner’s menu? Share in the comments below.
