In the heart of New York's East Village, a slice of Rome comes alive at Via Della Pace, a cozy Italian restaurant that has become a cultural institution.
For Italian expats and food enthusiasts alike, this charming neighborhood gem offers a taste of home, with its wooden floors, tin panel ceilings, and Roman memorabilia creating an immersive experience.
The restaurant's bay windows perch atop a characteristic East Village stoop, inviting passersby to step inside and savor the authentic flavors of Italy in the heart of New York.
A Taste of Rome in the East Village
Via Della Pace is a culinary gem in the East Village, bringing a slice of Rome to New York City. This cozy restaurant is perched atop characteristic stoops, with bay windows that invite passersby to come in and experience the warmth within.
Authentic Roman Ambiance
The interior of Via Della Pace is a masterclass in creating an authentic Roman ambiance. The wooden floors glow in the soft candlelight, and the tin panel ceilings evoke the charm of a bygone era in the East Village. The decor is a thoughtful blend of Italian memorabilia and vintage items, transporting diners directly to the cobblestone streets of Rome.
The East Village Connection
Despite the gentrification that has swept through the neighborhood, Via Della Pace has managed to preserve the bohemian spirit that has always defined the East Village. It serves as a cultural bridge between Rome and New York, offering a genuine Italian dining experience that feels like a home away from home. The restaurant's commitment to maintaining its authentic Italian identity while being an integral part of the community is truly commendable.
The overall ambiance and interior design of Via Della Pace make it a standout in the East Village. It's a place where tradition meets contemporary charm, creating a unique space that feels both familiar and exotic at the same time.
The Story Behind Via Della Pace NYC
The story of Via Della Pace is essentially the story of Giovanni Bartocci, a charismatic owner who has created a Roman haven in New York. Via Della Pace gets much of its character from its owner, who embodies the spirit of Rome in the heart of the East Village.
Giovanni Bartocci: The Heart of Via Della Pace
Giovanni Bartocci is a man of distinctive appearance and charm, often described as a long-haired, bearded wild man with the social graces of a Roman nobleman. He arrived in New York 12 years ago at the request of his uncle, who was a part-owner of Caffè Pace at the same location. Since then, Bartocci has been the driving force behind the restaurant, greeting guests, pouring drinks, and creating an authentic Roman ambiance.
Bartocci's vision was to make Via Della Pace a home for both expats and New Yorkers, where they could enjoy traditional Roman dishes at an affordable price. His approach to hospitality has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and loyal customer base over time.
Telling the compelling story of Giovanni Bartocci, the charismatic owner who gives Via Della Pace its distinctive character and authentic Roman spirit.
Describing Bartocci's journey from Rome to New York 12 years ago when his uncle invited him to run the restaurant.
Highlighting Bartocci's vision to create an affordable, authentic Roman dining experience.
From Caffè Pace to Cultural Institution
Under Bartocci's stewardship, Via Della Pace has evolved from its predecessor, Caffè Pace, into a cultural institution in the East Village. The transformation was not just about changing the name but about creating a space that is deeply rooted in Roman culture and traditions.
The restaurant now stands as a testament to Bartocci's dedication to preserving the authenticity of Roman cuisine while making it accessible to a broader audience. Via Della Pace has become a beloved gathering place for the community, offering a unique blend of culture, food, and hospitality.
Today, Via Della Pace is more than just a restaurant; it's a cultural hub that brings people together, offering a taste of Rome in the heart of New York.
The Culinary Experience
At Via Della Pace, the culinary journey is a testament to traditional Roman cuisine. The restaurant has mastered the classic formula of a Roman trattoria: great food, affordable prices, and a warm atmosphere where you feel like you're surrounded by friends.
Signature Roman Dishes
New Yorkers have fallen in love with Via Della Pace's authentic Roman dishes, particularly carbonara and amatriciana. These classic recipes are prepared with quality ingredients like guanciale and authentic tomato sauce, ensuring a genuine Italian experience. The amatriciana, for instance, is made without onions, adhering strictly to traditional methods.
Carbonara: A rich and creamy dish made with eggs, guanciale, and parmesan.
Amatriciana: A savory pasta dish featuring guanciale and tomato sauce.
Wine Selection and Pairings
Via Della Pace boasts an impressive wine selection, with affordable options available by the glass. The menu is carefully curated to complement the Roman dishes, ensuring a harmonious dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a glass of wine with your meal or simply looking for a great bottle to take home, Via Della Pace has you covered.
Via Della Pace Pizza Offerings
The pizzas at Via Della Pace are cooked to perfection in a wood-burning oven, offering a delightful culinary experience. The margherita pizza, priced at $13, is a standout, featuring fine-textured flour, nicely browned crust, and a generous helping of fiore de latte mozzarella. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy any pizza lover.
Via Della Pace successfully balances authenticity with accessibility, offering genuine Italian food at reasonable prices. This approach has endeared the restaurant to locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Rome in New York.
A Hub for Italian Culture and Sports
In the heart of New York, Via Della Pace stands out as a vibrant hub for Italian sports enthusiasts. Over time, the restaurant has become a magnet for Romans living in the city, especially those who support Lazio, Rome's oldest Serie A soccer team.
Lazio Club NYC Headquarters
Via Della Pace has become the official headquarters for Lazio Club NYC, bringing together Italian soccer fans in a vibrant community. On game days, usually Saturdays, the restaurant is packed with up to 50 fans wearing their sky-blue jerseys, creating an electric atmosphere that mirrors the excitement of Rome's Stadio Olimpico. Owner Giovanni Bartocci leads the festivities with a megaphone, fostering a sense of community among the fans.
Celebrity Patrons and Athletic Connections
Via Della Pace's appeal extends beyond soccer fans to Italian athletes visiting New York. The restaurant has become a hangout for notable athletes such as tennis star Matteo Berrettini and NBA champion Marco Belinelli. Bartocci's own passion for sports, including boxing, has helped establish the restaurant as a gathering place for sports enthusiasts and athletes alike.
The restaurant serves as a cultural hub, connecting Italians in New York with their home country through sports and shared traditions. As a result, Via Della Pace has become a beloved institution in the Italian-American community, offering more than just a meal – it provides a sense of home and belonging.
What Makes Via Della Pace NYC Special
What sets Via Della Pace apart in the crowded NYC dining scene is its dedication to traditional Roman cuisine. This commitment is evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from the ingredients used in its dishes to the warm atmosphere that welcomes diners.
Authentic Ingredients and Traditional Recipes
Via Della Pace's culinary approach is centered around authentic Italian ingredients and time-honored recipes. By sourcing high-quality ingredients and adhering to traditional cooking methods, the restaurant ensures that its dishes are genuinely representative of Roman cuisine. Some of the standout dishes include pasta all'amatriciana and porchetta di arricia, which showcase the restaurant's passion for preserving traditional Roman culinary techniques.
Use of fresh, authentic ingredients in every dish
Adherence to traditional Roman recipes and cooking methods
Menu offerings that cater to both Italian expats and New Yorkers seeking authentic Italian cuisine
Affordable Italian Dining Experience
One of the key factors that make Via Della Pace special is its ability to offer high-quality, authentic Italian dining at affordable prices. Despite the challenges of operating an independent restaurant in New York City's competitive dining scene without major investors, Via Della Pace has managed to maintain a competitive pricing strategy. This is achieved through a combination of efficient operations and a commitment to sourcing ingredients in a way that balances quality and cost.
By focusing on creating a genuine Italian dining experience that is accessible to a wide audience, Via Della Pace has established itself as a beloved destination in the East Village. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and friendly service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Italian cuisine in New York City.
Visitor's Guide to Via Della Pace
As you step into Via Della Pace, you're not just entering a restaurant, you're experiencing a slice of Rome in the heart of New York. Located on St. Marks Place just west of Tompkins Square in the East Village neighborhood, this charming eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Italian food.
The restaurant's interior, clad in bare brick and decorated with shelves filled with wine bottles, books, and knickknacks, creates a cozy, lived-in atmosphere that's perfect for a casual dinner or a night out with friends. With wine available by the glass at bargain rates, you can enjoy a generous pour of chianti or lambrusco without breaking the bank.
For first-time visitors, it's recommended to try their signature Roman dishes, which feature fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese. Whether you choose to sit at the bar for a quick glass of wine or opt for a table to enjoy a full dining experience, Via Della Pace is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its rich history, delicious Italian cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder this restaurant has become a beloved fixture in the East Village neighborhood.
FAQ
What type of cuisine does Via Della Pace serve?
Via Della Pace serves authentic Italian cuisine, with a focus on traditional Roman dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Is Via Della Pace a family-friendly restaurant?
Yes, Via Della Pace welcomes families and has a warm atmosphere suitable for diners of all ages.
Does Via Della Pace have a full bar?
Yes, the restaurant has a bar serving a variety of Italian wines and other beverages, making it a great spot for a casual drink or a special occasion.
Can I reserve a table for a large group?
Yes, Via Della Pace can accommodate large groups. It's best to call ahead or book online to ensure availability.
Are the ingredients used in the dishes fresh?
Absolutely, the chefs at Via Della Pace prioritize using fresh, high-quality ingredients in their cooking to ensure an authentic taste.
Is there outdoor seating available?
While the primary dining area is indoors, the cozy interior and welcoming atmosphere make it a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal regardless of the weather.
Does Via Della Pace participate in any cultural events?
Yes, as a hub for Italian culture, Via Della Pace often hosts and participates in various cultural events, including those related to Italian sports and traditions.
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