This old school Italian restaurant has been around since 1956. Once a favorite among professionals from the nearby court house, this red sauce joint has transformed into an Insta-playground.
A recent write up in the Times has highlighted the popular restaurant which is now famous not only for their chicken Milanese, but also for their ironically timely interior. Just last spring, Vogue hosted their annual pre-Met Gala party and since then, Forlini’s has seen a revival, especially among the fashion elite. While the restaurant has never suffered- they have a large following of loyal and regular customers- reservations for parties and dinners for the sartorially gifted and Instagram famous hipsters have brought the restaurant a new level of visibility among younger crowds and tourists.
Forlini’s screams old school New York City. This third generation, family run business offers true Italian specialties like Gnocchi al Pesto and Invollini di Gamberi. However, to be perfectly honest, the atmosphere is similar to what you might find in an Italian restaurant in your home town. Without being a hater, the restaurant is nothing particularly special but I won’t deny them their moment.
The interiors could be considered bordering on…tacky. But, like they say, fashion is cyclical and Forlini’s is a testament to this idea. Plush reddish-pink leather booths and their non-pretentious atmosphere is what continues to bring in the regulars and has new customers stopping by both for the food and the gram.
In his interview with the Times, Mr. Forlini was asked about the new found Insta fame and his newest social media conscious customers. “They’re all nice kids, good kids,” he said. “They’ve never caused trouble. Some are so thin though you wonder how they can even drink liquor.”
Looking to check it out yourself? Forlini’s is open:
Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Monday 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Tuesday 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Wednesday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Thursday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Address: 93 Baxter Street
Price: $$$
More info: their website.