Incognito Bistro has graced the Flatiron District since 2011 and we can see why its done so well. The sophisticated white cloth dining room will draw you in, along with its modern paintings and vintage black and white photos adorning the walls. But don’t let its looks fool you – Incognito welcomes all to its casual elegant atmosphere with reasonably priced dishes. For those who want a top notch meal surrounded by beauty without the hefty price tag, this is a great spot to dine.
Owner Paolo Montana doubles as chef with a menu featuring a large menu offering classic Roman dishes, and a recently added Scottish Corner, featuring classic Scottish dishes paying homage to his Scottish/Italian heritage. Adriana Moretti, Paolo’s wife and co-owner of the restaurant, helped design the sleek space and exudes a contagious love and excitement for what she does. Recently, the restaurant introduced live Jazz Nights every Tuesday from 8-11pm, as well as a Pre-Theatre three course dinner menu Mondays through Saturdays for $35. Incognito Bistro also has an amazing happy hour Monday through Friday from 11:30am until 10:30pm and from 4-11pm on Saturday. Their happy hour features Italian small plates and half price on specialty cocktails and Italian wines.
Manhattan with a Twist recently visited the chic bistro and was incredibly impressed by the outstanding service, wonderful food and inviting atmosphere. We had the fortune of enjoying sampling of some of their divine dishes. We began with Smoked Scottish Salmon Pizza ($24), topped with lemon ricotta and capers. This dish was tasty and it was hard not to down the whole thing! Next, we moved onto the Burrata, which was served with string beans, cherry tomatoes and truffle essence. The truffle with burrata was truly divine. But that was not the end of all the appetizers we were able to try. We also had their Pea Soup ($8), which was incredible – especially considering no cream or anything was added; it was just peas and spices and a delectable crouton. Last of the appetizers was the Calamari ($11), served marinated grilled with rucola. The presentation was really great and had a nice, smoky flavor.
First of the entrees, started at the Scottish corner with Highland Haggis ($12), a traditional Scottish dish made comprised of lamb sausage with turnips, creamed potatoes and whisky jus. This was one of my favorite dishes and my first time trying haggis. It was pleasantly surprising and definitely worth trying if you go there! Next up was a trio of pasta dishes, all made in house. The Ravioli ($13 or $22), made with butternut squash, mascarpone and green peas was mouthwatering. The Cannelloni ($13 or $22), which was stuffed with beef and spinach, was another winner and the Pappardelle in bolognese sauce was equally good. Each pasta dish was so different from one another and yet really enjoyable.
Next up was Wild Stripped Bass, served with white wine, lemon, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeno, alongside clams. It was unlike any other I’ve had, with an amazing sauce and cooked perfectly. Finally, we enjoyed Fillet Mignon ($38), served in mild mushroom, fennel and cognac. Another outstanding dish. We ended the evening with another traditional Scottish dish – dessert! We had Cranachan, comprised of berry compote, chantilly cream, toasted Scottish oats and honey. You’d think after all that food, you’d be too full for dessert, but that Cranachan proved us wrong. It was super light and we gobbled it all right up!
Incognito Bistro also has an array of Italian wines to pair with your lunch or dinner, and we had a pleasant Chardonny and vibrant Merlot. Each and every dish was exquisite and there’s still so many more dishes to try! We know we’ll be back for more.
Incognito Bistro is located at 30 West 18th Street.
