Gigino at Wagner Park

I live quite close by Gigino at Wagner Park, and have always been aware of it. But I was never motivated to go there, perhaps because I assumed there would be nothing special about the food. A friend suggested lunch there today, and I was more than happy for an excuse to check it out.

There are indeed plenty of Italian restaurants in the city that are at least as good as Gigino. But Gigino turns out quite respectable dishes, such as fried polenta on a bed of risotto and chopped sausage, or hearty seafood stew, or a dessert of bread pudding. All of these are available on the three-course prix fixe ($25.99 at lunch, $29.99 at dinner).

The unobstructed view of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor is stunning. Although it is almost mid-October, the weather was nice enough to eat outside. The indoor tables face wide picture windows, so the scenery should be worth looking at even after the weather turns.

We were happy with the efficient service.

Gigino at Wagner Park (20 Battery Place at West Street, Financial District)

Food: *
Service: *
Ambiance: *½
Overall: *

Comments

[Gary Shaffer]

Don't underestimate this place. Their food is consistently quite good, and the service just fine. But on a warm evening or afternoon, when you can sit outside, there are few places that offer what Gigino's does - a spectactular harbor view in a wonderfully pleasant and unpretentious setting.