Bencotto

Order “pasta a modo tuo” (pasta your way) at this modern bi-level eatery in the heart of Little Italy. Guests are invited to create their desired plate of pasta by choosing a favorite sauce (pink pancetta, arrabiata, pesto and more) and style, from gnocchi (handmade potato dumplings) to pappardelle, and everything in between. The venue not only makes oodles of noodles, but offers tasty appetizers, classic desserts and an impressive wine list. Savor shared plates like parmesan risotto balls or lightly fried calamari rings and legs with a lemon garlic aioli. Or opt for signature dishes like Tagliatelle al Nero di Seppia (black squid-ink fettuccine in a spicy pink tomato sauce) and Ravioli al Tartufo (ricotta- and porcini-stuffed pockets in truffle cream sauce). The oven-baked lasagna alla Bolognese is also a hearty house favorite. Not to be missed in the restaurant’s main attraction: the weekly rotating pasta that’s tossed in a 60-pound wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. The cheese wheel pasta is prepared at a display window for all to admire. Guests are invited to try Bencotto’s gem of a sister restaurant Monello, specializing in Northern Italian street food, located next door. Bencotto