Felice 83

Felice 83 Restaurant Review:

Authentic Italian cuisine, a broad selection of Italian wines by the glass and attentive service characterize this Upper East Side spot, the second outpost of Felice from the restaurant group also responsible for Casa Lever and Sant Ambroeus. It follows the same model as the Midtown location, with a marble bar for sipping wines and enjoying crostini, comfortable booth and table seating, and light fixtures made of glass wine jugs. The menu is designed so items may be mixed and matched, from appetizers to mains. Creamy burrata with zucchini and eggplant is an easy starter, mild and silky, pairing well with a glass of Lambrusco or a Cabernet-Merlot blend. Follow with a not-too-spicy grilled octopus salad, served on a purée of black-eyed peas, or the tiger shrimp and quinoa plate. The pasta menu is varied and includes daily specials; heartier fish, poultry and steak dishes are available as well. Given the restaurant’s Italian roots, L’Hamburger is an unexpected highlight --- a juicy burger made with short ribs, brisket and pancetta, offered with a choice of mozzarella or crescenza cheese and topped with sweet-and-sour onions.