As noted just moments ago, today is a momentous day in the Village: Mario Batali himself will open the doors at his decade-old restaurant Babbo for lunch at 11:30. After years of running a dining room boasting one of the toughest reservations in town, he's opening it up to the daytime crowds after keeping the prep work super top secret for weeks.
And a look at the menu reveals what those crowds will be having: beef cheek ravioli, crispy branzino, mint and favas, and a tasting menu for $49 a head ($35 extra with wine pairing). A reservationist at the restaurant tells Eater that portions may be a little smaller at lunch but that is reflected in the prices—which appear to be slightly lower at least in the case of the secondis. Giddyup.
· All Coverage of Babbo [~ENY~]