Rao's

Rao's

Rao's is a renowned Italian restaurant located in New York City. It was established in 1896 and has since become a staple in the city's culinary scene. The restaurant is known for its classic Italian dishes, intimate atmosphere, and the difficulty of securing a reservation.

History

Rao's was founded by Charles Rao, who purchased a small tavern on the corner of 114th Street and Pleasant Avenue in East Harlem. The restaurant remained in the Rao family for generations, with Frank Pellegrino Sr. taking over in the 1970s. Under his leadership, Rao's gained a reputation as one of the toughest reservations to get in New York City.

Cuisine

The cuisine at Rao's is traditional Italian, with a focus on Neapolitan dishes. Some of the restaurant's most popular dishes include their meatballs, lemon chicken, and seafood salad. In addition to their restaurant, Rao's also has a line of jarred pasta sauces that are sold in grocery stores nationwide.

Atmosphere

Rao's is known for its intimate and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant only has ten tables, adding to the exclusivity and charm of the dining experience. The decor is reminiscent of an old Italian tavern, with vintage photos and memorabilia adorning the walls.

Reservations

Securing a reservation at Rao's is notoriously difficult. The restaurant's ten tables are often booked months in advance, and many are reserved for regular customers. However, the restaurant does keep one table open each night for walk-ins.

In Popular Culture

Rao's has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including "The Wolf of Wall Street" and "Top Chef." The restaurant's unique atmosphere and delicious food have made it a popular location for filming.

See Also

• Italian Cuisine
• New York City Restaurants
• Pasta Sauce

References

• Rao's Official Website
• New York Times: Frank Pellegrino, an Owner of Rao’s, Dies at 72
• Eater: The Rao's Experience, and Why It's So Hard to Get a Table