Manganaros Italian Groceria & Trattoria

I think this place simply says “NEW YORK” all over it. The women/owner in there is perfect for what she does. I wouldn’t change a thing about her. If you want ‘cookie cutter’ franchises this is NOT the place to go. On one of my visits I believe I asked for an oil and garlic sauce on one of the pastas. She told me that she would never reccomend oil and garlic sauce on the pasta I picked. She pretty much said she wouldn’t even make it for me that way. I agreed to her suggestion and she was spot on. The dish was excellent, the antipasta before hand was good too. I am surprised at some of the negative comments here. I think I have been in the place about a dozen times, weekdays, weekends…. early and later… and always have enjoyed the place. PLEASE try this place and judge for yourself, I don’t think you will be disappointed.

My husband and I have been going to Manganaro’s for six years now. Last we were there was last Monday 7/6, walked into the place at 10:30AM, were on our way to Central Park for lunch. Played hooky from work … both literally dying for the Manganaro’s Special. The place by all accounts is old but homey. The ladies behind the counter …. may have a rough exterior … but maybe instead of all you self righteous tourists who expected to be treated on a silver platter stop for one single minute and say “how are you”, and recognize them as people, as Mom always said, treat people with respect and they’ll treat you the same. Just be thankful this is post Guiliani and you aren’t getting mugged!!

Oh and one quick note, don’t be stupid and take your vegetarian kid into an Italian deli ask what they have for vegetarians and expect NOT to be asked to leave.

LOVE the ladies, LOVE the atomosphere, LOVE Ceasar …. and to the sister who’s the oldest, stay strong.