THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Pistola

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Pistola Restaurant Review:

The word "Pistola" (Italian for "gun" or "pistol") may sound familiar if you've seen "The Godfather" --- in fact, its constant refrain in the film is what gave this restaurant its name. The former home of a.o.c. has been transformed into this stylish, cosmopolitan steakhouse with a strong Italian accent. Chef Vic Casanova (Gusto) and Seth Glassman (former executive general manager of Innovative Dining Group) originally intended to open a casual bistro but instead present a more upscale atmosphere complete with white tablecloths and efficient service. Upon entering the high-ceilinged space, there is a marble bar on the right and banquettes and nicely spaced two-tops to the left, as well as another partially enclosed room with some larger booths. Continue up the stairs to discover a mezzanine with more seating and a patio with a retractable roof. The menu is progressively evolving to bring seasonal offerings such as roasted squash with burrata and pomegranate seeds or caramelized day boat scallops with celery root. The compositions, sauces and flavors are impeccable. If we must point out a fault, it would be that the quality of ingredients can be uneven at times, as in the charred octopus. However, any misstep would quickly be put out of mind by house-made pastas like the bucatini carbonara. The kitchen's custom wood-burning oven plays a part in many dishes. Choose from a few seafood options or several steaks, including an 18 oz. dry-aged Delmonico Prime steak. Among the desserts are an apple crostata and homemade gelati and sorbetti, which we were pleased to find not overly sweet. There is a predominantly Italian wine list along with classic and original cocktails. The Right Hand Man, a variation on the Negroni, employs the sous-vide technique with a seasonal botanical blend.