Perfect Date Spot: Santina

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I recently had the pleasure of nabbing reservations at Santina in the Meatpacking District two days in a row (it’s like the reservation gods smiled down on me) and ate brunch last Saturday and dinner and drinks last Sunday at the Mediterranean restaurant and have nothing but great things to say. Santina is the perfect spot for a date or brunch/night out with girlfriends. Here’s our recap:

First, let’s talk about the décor. It was the closest I felt to the Amalfi Coast since vacationing in Capri last summer. The restaurant is adorned with intricate Murano blown glass chandeliers. Striped umbrellas outside the restaurant for al fresco seating make it feel like a private beach club, and the plating are colorful ceramics that look like they were shipped straight from Ravello, Italy. Bonus: the restuarant is right below the High Line, which is fun to walk before or after dining.
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The cocktails were all made with care and had fun names like “The View From Positano” which was my favorite – it’s gin, black pepper and strawberry. Want to drink from a ceramic pineapple that you’ll see everyone sipping from? Try the Manganelli Punch. We also had a pitcher or two (sorry, not sorry) of the aperol spritz, which I highly recommend.

The food is also a throwback to Italy. When you walk in, you will notice table after table with what looks like a flat circular bread on it. Pro tip: order the Cecina. It’s made of chickpea flour and comes with fun dipping sauces that you choose – like avocado or tuna. I didn’t even think about the carbs entering my body right before 4th of July weekend, that’s how good it was. For mains, you can’t go wrong. My favorite dish was the swordfish dogana, which came with beans and olives and a great marinade. The Guajillo chicken and Shrimp Zingara rice were also great.

Craving more of Italy? Check out our Amalfi Coast travel guide.

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