Inside Caffè Storico, The New-York Historical Society's New Gem Of A Restaurant

Last month The New-York Historical Society—the oldest museum in New York City—completed a $65 million renovation to its Upper West Side home. And this weekend, the Society flings open the doors to its new restaurant, Caffè Storico (Italian for “historic”), operated by restaurateur Stephen Starr, the guy behind Buddakan and Morimoto. The first thing you'll probably notice are all that pretty Chinese and 19th century European porcelain and Staffordshire china (all from New-York Historical Society’s collection) adorning the walls. Also striking: a giant marble slab formed into a cicchetti bar, where small plates are prepared and served. As you can see, it's a bright, airy room replete with dazzling chandeliers, high ceilings, and cheery yellow banquettes.

The chef is Jim Burke, who most recently ran the fancy Philadelphia restaurant James. His menu, we're told, "echoes rustic Italian culinary sensibilities with a modern twist." The aforementioned cicchetti include Baccala Mantecato, Grilled Cuttlefish, Shrimp Tramezzini and Arancini. Pastas range from Hand-Rolled Garganelli with cauliflower, pine nuts and bottarga di muggine; to Risotto a la Kristina, named after Burke’s wife, which features prosecco and oysters. Entrées include a Roasted Sea Bass with cannelloni beans and herb salad, as well as a Dry Aged T-Bone Steak with patata al forno and broccolini.

The 50-bottle wine list hails entirely from Italy, featuring a by-the-glass list of 20 selections. Lunch features an appetizing panini selection, with a Tuna & Artichoke, Wild Mushroom & Fontina and a Prosciutto San Daniele & Mozzarella. Later this month there will be brunch, with both sweet and savory dishes such as Polenta & Eggs with taleggio cheese; Ricotta Cavatelli with lobster and black trumpet mushrooms; and Sweet Ricotta Gnudi with crisp bacon and maple syrup.

170 Central Park West // (212) 485-9211