Gennaro Restaurant

We have been coming here for decades, because Gennaro serves hands down the best Italian food on the Upper West Side. We tell people we practically live here, coming at least once a week. The owner and staff are gracious and friendly, the delicious Southern Italian menu -- wonderful pastas, meats, and fish -- is augmented by daily specials (including the occasional rabbit and goat), the wine list is extensive, reasonably priced, and excellent. The atmosphere is informal, with a neighborly neighborhood feel. You should know in advance that Gennaro accepts neither reservations or credit cards. Don't let that stop you from having a marvelous evening here.

The service was okay it. The calamari was really good, it was my first time trying it grilled. it’s definitely different but in a good way. And the bolognese was really good as well.

The Grilled octopus salad appetizer was amazing delicious and portions generous. (I had eaten most of it before I thought to take a photo) Many of the specials included in various types of fish. Once again, the waiter was indifferent and bitchy. He brought the wrong bottle of wine and when I pointed that out he told me it was the one that I ordered and uncorked it and plopped it down on our table.

We come here whenever we come to NYC because the food and ambiance are amazing! Just remember this place isn't open on Tuesdays. You really can't go wrong with anything on their menu but especially the tart with potatoes, beets, goat cheese and arugula is incredible, and the spaghetti alla chitarra is amazing. One time they had a beet ravioli as a special and that was fantastic too. And their burrata is also amazing. There's really nothing bad to say about this place; you won't be disappointed.

I cant rave about this place enough, the food is delicious and comforting, i believe everything is made in house. They have a large menu and so much to choose from. The grilled calamari was tender and delicious and the oxtail ragu from their specialty menu was rich and flavorful