Levante - Long Island City

Fabulous house made pasta (had the lobster pasta special of the day) in a light and airy space with lots of bar and outdoor seating. A great spot for after works drinks and pizza!Food: 5/5

We were drawn in by an advertisement for a classic Italian film screening in the backyard which did not quite live up to the expectation created by the ad! Oh well, judging by the crowd we were probably the only ones interested. That said, the food and wine were very good, and the ambience in the outside garden very nice on a very pleasant summer evening. Like everything in the new Long Island City, Levante feels like it was born yesterday despite a strong effort to create atmosphere and community. We 'll see if it stands the test of time, but it could certainly be a nice place for a night out if you 're in the area.

Everything about the website description of Levante sounded interesting, so my wife and I decided to give it a try after visiting MOMA PS 1 and the Sculpture Center. But Chef Simone Venturini has created a meat heavy menu that gave me not a single pasta to try (and no offer from the server to alter any dish so that I could eat it), and one fish dish a Branzino that has become as ubiquitous as Salmon. We didn 't come for pizza, which was available G F. New York Vibe ? Maybe Staten Island.

Lovely chill spot, bar is a wonderful place to meet someone if you come in alone, or meet up with someone if you have a someone. Food is great, nothing fancy, but very well executed and true to Italian roots. Pizza and antipasti are highlights. The bartender Sean, however, is the true standout — effortlessly charismatic and instantly a pleasure to be around. He is just instant vibes, and is truly the soul of this place. Say the word and he'll make you a delicious custom cocktail at the drop of a dime. I really should become a regular here, but too bad I live all the way in Bushwick.

Please noted: Levante charges customer tips after the tax! Unacceptable!It says 20% but the actual amount after tax is about to be 25%! The whole time waiter barely come to us, no one refills our cup and the cocktail is way to sweet, I can’t even finish the drink. This doesn’t deserve 20% tips at all. Never would come back again! Worse restaurant in LIC.