Mercato

A recent addition to the Washington Square West neighborhood, Mercato has quickly earned a positive reputation among locals and fills up easily at dinner time (no reservations).

Located in what used to be a neighborhood corner market, Mercato — which means market in Italian — expands on its namesake theme by emphasizing fresh, local ingredients in its contemporary Italian menu.

The menu changes often, but keep your eye out for favorites including delicious salads, ambitious seafood dishes and homemade pastas. On warmer nights, Mercato opens its spacious windows to let diners enjoy the evening air and feel the bustle of the neighborhood.

Mercato is a cash-only BYOB, open seven days a week; Monday through Thursday, from 5 to 10:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, from 5 to 11p.m., and Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations are accepted for pre-theater seating, Sunday through Thursday, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Insider Tip

Mercato has sidewalk seating available on clear nights, spring through fall.