With its vibrant culinary landscape, New York City is a gastronomic paradise that draws food enthusiasts from around the world. Nestled in the heart of the Flatiron District, 20th Street is home to a cluster of remarkable eateries, including iconic names like Gramercy Tavern and Sugarfish. Recently, this esteemed block has welcomed a new culinary torchbearer: Opto, a restaurant that promises to elevate the Mediterranean dining experience through simplicity and quality.
Opto is the brainchild of the talented executive chef Alex Tubero and co-owner Nicola Kotsoni. Tubero, famed for his previous work at prominent establishments like Amali and Union Square Cafe, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the table. On the other hand, Kotsoni, who has previously introduced gems like Il Cantinori to New York’s dining sphere, complements Tubero’s expertise with her profound understanding of hospitality.
The new establishment takes its name from the Latin word “optare,” meaning “to desire,” encapsulating the restaurant’s ethos of crafting a menu that is at once enticing and accessible. “Opto reflects my own dining preferences — uncomplicated yet rich in high-quality ingredients,” Tubero explains. The space itself mirrors Kotsoni’s warmth and elegance, creating an inviting atmosphere where diners can savor not just a meal, but an experience.
Exceptional Sourcing and Warm Hospitality
A key defining factor of Opto’s menu lies in its commitment to sourcing exceptional ingredients. Tubero emphasizes the importance of relationships with local farmers, fishermen, and purveyors to ensure that only the freshest, most sustainable ingredients make it to the plate. The seafood is exclusively sourced from Sherri Liepper of Liepper and Sons Fish, reflecting a dedication to quality that has become increasingly rare in the city.
Guests can expect nothing short of a gracious welcome as they step into Opto. “We want our visitors to feel like they are stepping into a home, greeted by our friendly staff,” Tubero mentions. An integral part of this hospitality is the complimentary house-made durum wheat bread served alongside an exquisite olive oil imported directly from Spain. This thoughtful touch sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.
Opto’s menu is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine, featuring an array of exquisite starters and handmade pastas that transport diners to sun-soaked shores. Highlights from the appetizer section include delicate St. Simon oysters, vibrant king salmon tartare, and charred Spanish octopus. Each dish is meticulously crafted to highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, inviting diners to explore a variety of flavors and textures.
The heart of the menu lies in its handmade pastas. Options like the macaroni di bussa al pomodoro and pansoti con salsa di noci showcase Tubero’s dedication to authentic Italian cooking. The focus on fresh ingredients, such as Vesuvius tomatoes and artisanal sheep’s milk ricotta, results in dishes that are both complex and satisfying. The signature tagliolini al Amalfi limone, with its zesty infusion of Amalfi lemons, exemplifies the fresh, vibrant flavors that define the restaurant’s culinary approach.
A Diverse Selection of Entrées and Desserts
As diners progress to the entrée section, they’ll find a robust selection that draws inspiration from both land and sea. Options such as filet mignon from Tasmania and succulent suckling pig shoulder demonstrate Tubero’s culinary prowess and ability to curate a diverse menu that appeals to various palates. Each dish not only showcases the high-quality sourcing but also incorporates unique flavor profiles that paint a picture of Mediterranean gastronomy.
Desserts at Opto further enhance the dining experience, featuring classics like dark chocolate mousse and signature crèmé caramel that are sure to delight diners. The beverage program is equally noteworthy, with a curated list of approachable wines and inventive cocktails that invite guests to explore creative flavor pairings.
A Bright Future for Opto in NYC’s Culinary Landscape
Open daily for dinner, Opto operates from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., welcoming diners to enjoy its enticing menu. As the New York dining scene continues to evolve amid new challenges, Tubero reflects on the enduring principle that underlines successful dining experiences: “Surrounding yourself with good people remains essential.” It’s this spirit of warmth, hospitality, and culinary exploration that makes Opto not just a place to eat, but a destination to cherish.
As guests seek both familiarity and novelty in their dining experiences, Opto stands poised to become a beloved fixture on the Flatiron dining scene, promising delicious meals that inspire comfort and joy. With its unique blend of Mediterranean flavors, exceptional service, and inviting atmosphere, Opto is not just another restaurant — it is a new culinary narrative waiting to be discovered.