I Sodi.

Popular with stylish locals, I Sodi is the place to see and been seen. It was opened by Rita Soda, a Florence transplant who grew up in the Tuscan countryside and embarked into the world of fashion, a passion that took her all over the world.

Sodi traveled the world for a while, but found herself craving her mother’s cooking. Apparently, coming across simple Tuscan cuisine wasn’t as easy as she expected. Determined to change that, she opened what would become one of the most popular Italian restaurants in the West Village, I Sodi.

A love letter to her native Tuscany, the menu is full of stunning anitpasti, excellent pastas and indelible secondi. Order anything that piques your interest, but know that nothing tops the Cotoletta Alla Milanese and Ravioli Burro e Salvia for yours truly. Those two dishes alone warrant a detour.

On brand with most restaurants on this list, reservations are difficult to get, walking in at opening might be your best bet. This my top recommendation when people ask about the best West Village restaurants for a first date, you won’t be disappointed.

Another West Village hot spot, I Sodi follows the traditions of Rita Sodi’s upbringing on a farm near Florence, Italy. The food is simple but so rich in flavor, and with only eight tables it’s one of the hardest reservations to get in New York City. Resys are available two weeks out, refreshing each day at midnight.