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PRESS :: FASHION MANNUSCRIPT
Mezzogiorno - a "Midday" Treat All Day Long
Often a day spent meandering the boutiques and galleries in New York's artistic Soho region leaves one quite exhausted and famished. Where better to refresh oneself than Mezzogiorno, located at the crossroads of Spring and Sullivan. Here you'll find a welcome oasis of Tuscan and Northern Italian cuisine in an open airy atmosphere. On warm days, sit at one of the outdoor tables or inside by the open French doors, and let the breezes soothe your tired soul.
Italian-born owner, Vittorio Ansuini (and 19-year New York resident), wanted to re-create "an authentic Tuscan dining experience" with an infusion of artistic spirit. His aim was to design a space that would appeal to the neighboring art community. Ten busy years later, his plans seems to be a complete success. "Most of my customers are from the SoHo art world -- dealers, gallery people, artists. And weekend brunch brings in an especially rewarding clientele."
A selection of delicious pastas, pizzas and antipasti will suit your need for a snack or a hearty meal. According to Ansuini the most significant antipasti plate is "the sliced cold veal in a tuna sauce," while the "black linguini in spicy sauce is a house favorite."
Artistic touches include the ceiling which spouts large print excerpts from an authentic 14th Century Tuscan diary (part is also reprinted on the menu). In fact, the artwork on the menu and restaurant's logo comes from a famous Florence painting by Pontorno of a 14th Century waiter/servant. Even more enchanting are the walls of the restaurant where in lieu of typical wallpaper there is an arrangement of colorful shadowboxes.
This stylistic spot attracts all the beautiful people -- models, actors, celebs and members of the fashion scene. On a recent visit, none other than 60s fashion guru, Barbara Hulaniki, was spied reading the Times while sipping a refreshment at the bar. Hulaniki's Carnaby Street store, "Biba," was the Prada for her generation. Check out her newly opened Fitz and Fitz store in the Flatiron district.
Published: July 1996, Fashion Mannuscript
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