TLDR
Old-school Italian red sauce joint in SoHo; no reservations, celeb-frequented, classic dishes like Veal Parm. A true throwback with a romantic vibe [1].
Instagram Posts References
Emilio’s Ballato is an old-school Italian restaurant in SoHo, highly favored by celebrities for its no-reservations policy and classic red sauce dishes.
Emilio's Ballato in Nolita offers a throwback dining experience with a romantic ambiance, serving generous portions of veal parm, sausage and broccoli rabe, and pasta.
Details
Emilio's Ballato offers a nostalgic journey back to 1956 with its vintage, romantic ambiance and classic Italian-American fare. Known for generous portions of dishes like Veal Parm and Sausage with Broccoli Rabe, this Nolita gem provides a throwback dining experience [1]. The restaurant, often frequented by celebrities, maintains a no-reservations policy for smaller groups, adding to its unique allure.
Food Overview
Emilio's Ballato is celebrated for its authentic Italian-American cuisine, particularly its classic red sauce dishes [1]. Standout recommendations include the Veal Parm [1], [2], Scarpariello Wings [3], and Chicken Parm [4]. Some users have had negative experiences, describing food as cold and bland, with one particularly critical review mentioning a significant overcharge [5], [6]. The Veal Antonio is noted as a pricey but potentially excellent shareable dish [7], [8], [9].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended dishes include the Veal Parm [1], [2] and Chicken Parm [3], [4]. The off-menu Scarpariello Wings are also a must-try [5]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •veal antonio(3)
- •veal parm(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customers generally have a positive sentiment, praising the classic Italian-American dishes and old-school atmosphere [1]. However, some experiences have noted difficulties with walk-ins and a potential for long waits [2]. There are also conflicting reports regarding value and recent changes in pricing and service style [3], [4].
Caveats
This restaurant operates on a no-reservations policy for smaller groups, which can lead to significant wait times, with reports of an hour or more [1], [2]. There are conflicting opinions regarding its current value and whether it remains a top-tier choice or has become overly popular and expensive, sometimes referred to as a 'clubstaurant' [3], [4], [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About BALLATO
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: How Is Il Buco Alimentari Good For Out Of Town
"Emilio's Balato was previously a favorite for impressing visitors, but due to recent popularity (amplified by Taylor Swift), the long lines make it unjustifiable to wait for, leading the user to avoid it."
NegativeFrom post: Best Chicken Parmesean In Nyc Recommendation
"Emilios Ballato is recommended for chicken parmesan."
PositiveFrom post: These Nyc Tables Are Impossible To Get Except
"This commenter recalls Ballato's being a neighborhood joint where the chef would send out the entire menu for free, contrasting it with its current status as a difficult-to-get-into 'clubstaurant'."
NeutralFrom post: These Nyc Tables Are Impossible To Get Except
"This commenter notes that Ballato's adopted a business model similar to Carbone, significantly increasing its prices. They observed this change from when it was a more casual neighborhood spot."
NegativeFrom post: What Is The Single Best Restaurant Dish In Nyc In
"The chicken parm at Emilio's Ballato was mentioned as a notable dish."
PositiveFrom post: Where Is The Best Chicken Francese In Nyc
"This user also recommended Elio's (likely referring to Emilio's)."
PositiveFrom post: Where Is The Best Chicken Francese In Nyc
"This user agreed with the recommendation for Emilio's."
PositiveFrom post: Where Is The Best Chicken Francese In Nyc
"This user recommended Emilio's for chicken francese."
PositiveFrom post: Meatball Recommendations
"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato for its good meatballs and generally for Italian cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Whats A Fancy Spot With Cheese Ravioli On The Menu
"The original poster responded to the Emilio's Ballato suggestion, stating that 'fancy' is not a strict requirement and that they are primarily craving cheese ravioli."
NeutralFrom post: Whats A Fancy Spot With Cheese Ravioli On The Menu
"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato, questioning if it fits the definition of 'fancy' but confirming it has cheese ravioli."
NeutralFrom post: Monkey Bar Vibes
"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato for its private area, typically reserved for celebrities, requiring a set $200 per person food menu for reservations."
PositiveFrom post: Birthday Dinner In Nyc Italianamerican Recs
"Emilio's Ballato was recommended, with the caveat that reservations cannot be made and one must go in person to wait."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"Emilio's Ballato is described as very old school, classic, and authentically Italian, with a noted sighting of a gangster."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"Emilio's Ballato is recommended for its authentic atmosphere, with a mention of seeing a gangster there."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"Emilio's Ballato is recommended as an option for an old-school experience, alongside John's of 12th Street."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"Emilio's Ballato is suggested as a classic red sauce option, alongside Bamonte's and Monte's, but getting into Ballato's can be difficult due to long lines."
PositiveFrom post: Where Is A Tough Dinner Res But Easy For Lunch
"Emilio's Ballato is mentioned as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Great Restaurants That Dont Require Reservations
"The commenter recommends Emilio's Ballato, noting that they were able to walk in around 5 PM on a Sunday and highlighting the quality of their veal parm."
PositiveFrom post: Im Leaving Nyc Final Meals Help
"The user mentions Emilio's as a place they are definitely going to visit before leaving NYC."
Neutral