21 Bedford St, New York, NY 10014 Map & Directions
(212) 989-5769
Good Food, Lousy service – I like the food and selections. Good wine to match them too. However, I had the worst service ever. The waiter just ignore you and was kinda discriminative towards colored customers! I was ultimately offended. If you're an eater who cares about the service, you'll not enjoy your meal!
Great food, always a treat – This little hole in the wall restaurant is so yummy- i always find a friend to go with, and we mix & match our orders... definitely keeps my foodie writer friend happy as well.
best espreso ever – This place is one of the best, hidden foodie places in nyc. Even with great places like Clinton St. Bakery, I prefer a quiet but lively brunch here on a sat or sunday anyday over the top brunch places in nyc. Better that that is the fact that Ino uses essse brand coffee for their espressos - that's the best out there.
Service – The food and atmosphere are a must.
It is too bad that a bunch of over inflated kids are providing bad service on the Weekends.
great spot – INO is one of the places you get addicted to. The wine selection is exellent, the staff is polite and knows about what they serve. The only problem I personally find with this place is how noisy it is (it's so hard to hear the specials!) But, I guess, it's the city vibe and its charm too :)))) Truffle egg toast is delicious, paninis are creative and can please any taste. Shortly, the food is simple and has great flavours. I didn't like the presentation of the cheese plate (huge white plate, about 90% of it is empty, it doesn't look attractive at all, and hardly fits on the tiny table), even though the cheeses are delicious. Exellent for really late nights, since they close their kitchen at 2!
Bland – I honestly don't understand what all the hype is about. I went to 'ino on Friday evening with a friend and was surprised to see one two top table open. The waitress told us she would have to check to see if there was a table available. What did she have to check? The place is the size of a postage stamp! It was obvious there was a table open. After making a point to "consult" with the manager, they made a big deal about seating us after making us wait for a few minutes. Not a big deal, but really, the dramatic show was unnecessary. I had the white bean soup and half a pannini - both were bland and COLD. Don't bother with the artichoke, fennel and fontina pannini - absolutely void of flavor. The waitress and the manager kept peeking over my shoulder to check on how we were - imagine someone reading over your shoulder on the train. That is how uncomfortable and annoying it was...and it was constant. Attention to your customers is one thing, loitering is quite another. Don't waste your time or money on this place. The bland food is not worth it; there are much better restaurants in the area
POOR SERVICE – Having been to Ino many times before, I went in sunday evening expecting an enjoyable experience. The atmosphere was relaxed and the food was great but the service was a terrible disappointment. If I were to return and see the same gentleman behind the bar, I would leave. He was unfriendly from the start and inattentive throughout the meal. Him and the server kept talking together and when I interrupted them- once to ask for our wine to be poured (it was being kept on ice behind the bar) and second for our credit card to be rung that had been waiting on the bar- they came over only after resuming conversation. He also forgot an order and when my other friend asked for the check- unaware that all the food hadn't arrived b/c it had taken so long- I heard him yell something at the kitchen staff then came over and said in an accusatory manner that we still had food coming. We were baffled and irritated by the rude negligence.
Wine and Nutella... need I say more? – I recently dined at 'ino with a group of friends. We had such a great time due to the relaxed enjoyable atmosphere and delicious food. The wine list was fantastic- the Sangiovese is a great choice, the paninis are delicious- hot and crusty- we're not talking a deli panini here! The wait staff and bartender were very informative and I can't say enough good things about the dessert... nutella panini! Yes, the place is tiny- and if you're waiting for a table (and there are really only a few tables) you're going to feel a little cramped standing at the bar but in my opinion it's well worth it. In fact, I think the size adds to the casual atmosphere and although the music did get a little loud I was still more than capable of holding a conversation. I will definitely be making this place one of my regulars.
What's happening to New York!? – While always crowded because of its size, this USED TO BE a great place for good wine and food. There must have been a change of management in the last year or two, because it now feels very frat-like and very mainstream... a far cry form the idea of an Italian wine-bar/bistro Awful, loud music blaring (to the point where you have to repeat your conversation 3 times), and an ignorant and arrogant staff (an awful combination of personality traits in the hospitality business) make this place pretty unbearable. And since when did mood-lighting consist of overly bright recessed lighting... recessed lighting should be banned form anything that describes itself as 'cozy'. Middle-America continues it's invasion on what used to be the country's most unique metropolis.
Good date and brunch spot – After close to a dozen visits to 'ino in the past year, I can say with confidence that this little village spot has never failed to please. The truffled egg toast is very rich and will draw you back for a second brunch or a late-night snack. The prosecco is probably the best deal on the menu due to the generous helping of the bubbly for a reasonable price. The wait for a table can be extended on the weekends, so pick your night carefully. If it's too packed, AOC Bedford across the street is letting you BYOB all summer...
wine time – I cant say enough about his place. I love Italian wine and I'm not sure if there is a better place for it in the city. Great prices and selection, what more do you want. Not one Pinot Grigio! They also have a lot of affordable stuff or special occasion wines. The food is great for a meal or just to accompany your vino. I went in with a date and the host quoted us 30 minutes, we were drinking in 5, sitting at the bar in 15 and at our table in 25, though I have been here before and waited longer than quoted but if you are in a hurry go to applebees or mickey-d's. The crowd was great and fun and the music was awesome. I really can't think of anything bad to say about his place except I don't live across the street. Best of all, she loved it so much I get to go back next week.
No, No 'Ino – Went here at 11 PM on a Wednesday night - not exactly the height of the dinner rush.
I was attracted to this place because it looked small, cozy and inviting. As I opened the door and entered, my first impression was that something was horribly wrong; in a tiny room that seats maybe 15 people the sound system was blasting very lame punk as if it was the Meadowlands Stadium. It was ridiculously loud, aggressive, and obnoxious. As the evening went on, the soundtrack got increasingly lame, aggressive, and louder. I love loud music as much as anyone else, but this was like trying to have dinner inside a ball-bearing factory. The service was indifferent, and after all the hype it gets, the food was stunningly mediocre. In a city that has no shortage of restaurants specializing in regional-specific Italian cuisine, I was expecting great things given the reviews of 'Ino that I have seen. The $2 'bruschetta' that was delivered to my table consisted of a single tiny slice (1.5" x 3.5") of stale bread smeared with a micro-thin paste and one scrap of arugula. The ingredients in the salad were mostly wilted. As for its much-touted wine list, it turns out that in reality it consists almost entirely of wines by the bottle with very few wines by the glass on offer.
I suppose that for people who have never had quality Italian cuisine or been in small restos that are actually charming AND that provide good cooking, service and ambiance, it is easy to be taken in by the hype that a place like this tries to create. If you're looking for a real wine bar, this is certainly not it. Save your money (and your hearing) for someplace that can actually deliver on the hype and leave 'Ino for its hipster and tourist clientele.
Crowded but good – I've been here a few times and have always really enjoyed it. The food is delicious and consistantly so. They also have a great wine selection.
ALWAYS GREAT – I have been going to Ino for several years and always love it. a lot of the staff stays consistent, so you see a lot of the same people and they usually recognize you. wine list is great, there's always something to suit my mood. the atmosphere, although cramped, couldnt be better. it's perfect for a date, catching up with an old friend, or a simple lunch by yourself at the tiny bar. the food is terrific. my favorites: the truffled egg toast (i'm drooling right now) and the panino with cacciatorini, goat cheese, and black olive tappenade are the top. cheese plate is a little disappointing (average/cooking cheeses like grana padano and taleggio, if my memory serves). i'm not much of a dessert person, but i go crazy for the nutella dessert. as for beverages, i dont know an awful lot about italian wine but i usually get the prosecco. once i remember enjoying a really nice dolcetto. as for beer, they usually carry about 3. one is a seasonal brooklyn brewery beer on draft, and two are bottles, one of which is a favorite of mine (schneider aventinus, which is hard to find in nyc bars or restaurants). service is quick, not overly friendly, but hey it's a small place and the servers are constantly busy. always prompt, though, and i have never had anyone there make any mistakes. even at their busiest times, i have never waited more than 10 minutes for a table. overall, one of my favorite places EVER.
Constant Delight – Have frequented 'ino for several years and the food remains excellent. Cheese plate is a varied delight and great bargain at $10. The large selection of bruschettas, paninis, & tramezzinis keep the palate from stagnating. (The asparagus, truffle oil, & parmesan bruschetta is a winner!) Wine list is extensive without being over-priced. Be sure to try the seasonal, and always delicious, specials. Definitely a neighborhood favorite.
A hidden gem in the village! – I ate here for the first time and absolutely loved it! The restaurant is rather small but we were lucky to get a table quickly. The bruschetta and panini's are so yummy! I plan to come here again and look forward to trying their assortment of bruschetta, panini's.....
Top Pick for NY visitor – I don't live in NY but my best friend does. And when I visit her I make it a point to eat at 'Ino at least once daily if not once for the whole trip. It is the best hidden spot there and I rave about it to everyone. The prices are great, the food is excellent (try the white bean soup when they have it, it's excellent!) and the service is good. I've had to wait only a few times during lunch but this place is definitely worth the wait. I wish I lived there as I would eat at this place as often as possible!
It rhymes with vino, and it's the perfect spot for just that. – The Scene
This exposed-brick eatery, which seats only 25, is the West Village's answer to the perfect Italian countryside pit stop. It ought to be perfect, considering its lineage: Owners are the husband-and-wife team of Jason and Jennifer Denton, who are better known for partnering with Mario Batali to open Lupa. The restaurant is open until 2am, making it a great spot for a late-night snack.
The Food
The menu includes lovingly made renditions of panini, bruschetta and tramezzini (cocktail-style sandwiches with fillings like tuna with black olive pesto and bresaola with arugula), along with a roster of cured meats, cheeses and olives that have been imported from Italy. The fresh crusty breads, meanwhile, come all the way from neighboring Blue Ribbon Bakery.
Valentine Spot – We went to Ino for Valentines. We have been to this place many times, and always have great food, wine, and service. We were worried we would have trouble getting in, but somehow managed to have a short wait. As always we had a great glass of wine while we waited. When we sat, we got great and fast service. The people that work there are always so friendly you forget you are in New York sometimes. Make sure you try this place as often as you can.
If soldiers ran Panini shops... – We'd heard great things about this restaurant and loved 'Inoteca, but 'Ino was awful. The waiter was incredibly rude, the bartender was antagonistic, and when the check was wrong, they looked at us with scorn. While 'Ino's food is delicious, nothing is worth the attitude.
Best in the City – I had the best pannini I have had in the city last night. We went to this small great place in the villiage. We started with an antipasti plate that was amazing. Then we moved into the great pannini. I opted for the special they were running for the day which had a homemade spicy mustard that was amazing. We started with a great glass of wine that Jeff suggested, then he suggested an amazing bottle. He knew his stuff. If you have the chance go to this place.
A slightly flawed gem in the WV... – I love this place. The truffle egg toast is sublime. They have an small, but amazing wine list (have the Prosecco). The space is small and quaint and cute and casual.
Which leads to my only complaint about 'ino: the service can be a little too casual. If aloof is what they're going for, 'ino takes the cake.
Amazing food and sceene – I walked into a small gem. They serve great sandwiches paired with amazing Italian wines. I couldn't believe how great the food was done in such a small kitchen. The man behind the bar, Jeff was very informative and very friendly.
Paninis... – 'ino is a simple idea pulled off well. They serve mostly paninis (fancy Italian sandwiches). They are DELICIOUS!!! The wine list is great and helps improve the ambience.
The space is a bit cramped and the waitress seemed to avoid eye contact at all costs, however, I would recommend you go just for the food. The bruschetta appetizers are also DELICIOUS!!
my little neighbor – i love 'ino. they serve consistently good food and i find that the bartender and manager really know about the wine. the waitresses are horrible, however. they don't even know what cheeses are on their cheese plate. try to aviod them and have the manager serve you. try the cachitorini (sp), goat cheese and olive pesto panini. you will dream of it. and go late! you'll get a table.
Great find – I had read about this place and really wanted to try it, but I was not sure about it given the limited menu. However, this place is great! Its cheap and everything is fresh and good. If you are in the mood for good, fresh paninis, check this place out.
Favorite date place – The first time I went to 'ino, five years ago, I was unfamiliar with downtown, and was unable to find it again until I was taken there a year later - but never forgot the amazing experience I had had. Since then, I have moved downtown, and have been nearly a regular for the past two years. What a consistently, great place to go! Their food is always good, and the waitstaff is always friendly, even though they are thoroughly crowded. Hint - go late
Panini Perfection – A perfect place to stop for a quick bite to eat, made from quality ingredients for an affordable price. When it gets packed, it can be a wait, given the tiny space it's in. But the space adds to the charm of the room. Always try one of the daily specials, in addition to all the tasty morsels on the menu. Although I've only gone in during the day, I'm tempted to see how the ambiance changes during the night.
One of My Favorites – This is an adorable and affordable answer to the trendy and faceless cafes in the west village. 'ino provides stability to the wine menu, while pairing up Italian classics with a big serving of charm. The only drawback is that the tiny cafe can only hold so many people with even less tables available, so if you are lucky enough to score a table, stay put with a date and some wine, because no place nearby can serve so much romance with such quality eats.
why so grumpy? – The experience you have here depends on who serves you! Most of the staff are friendly but if you're unlucky enough to be served by the waitress that isn't, then the experience can be rather unpleasant. After 3 years of dining here (and always tipping well), I expect to be treated better. If I wait an hour for a table (which I often do) I don't expect to be rushed once finally seated and be forced to order everything at once. I also don't expect to be handed the check the minute I finish eating. Granted the food is excellent and very cheap but would like to be served with a smile occasionally.
Just can't get enough! – I simply cannot get enough of this place. I almost hate to write a review for fear that it will become too crowded. The food, the wine, the sweet and funny wait staff = a perfect combination. Go to 'ino to sit with your girlfriends and chat the night away over delicious eats (cheese and olive plates, antipasti, panini, basil pesto bruschetta -*a must-have*) and reasonably priced wine. You'll be planning your next visit before you finish with your first!
they aren't sick of me yet – i try not to eat there too often but i can't help it - i crave their antipasto platter and arugula salad. it's a great little place that's open late and serves delicious, simple food.
Panini Heaven – Totally delightful! My favorite new discovery is this tiny cafe. It's crowded, but that only shows you how popular the food is! Ingredients are fresh and savory. The bread is perfect. The best deal is the Quatro Panini for $10 that lets you sample 4 different panini, like a tasting menu. Trust me, you'll have trouble deciding which is your favorite.
'ino is all about food, wine, and fun! – A postage stamp size place with only 7 tables, and about that many stools at the miniscule bar. Waiting for a table is par for the course. Also can get very loud, so not a good place for quiet conversation, but the perfect place for a great panini and down-home, first name basis service. But everything only adds to the atmosphere and that is what makes 'ino so unique - great food, fun people, cheap prices.
charming – great food w/high quality ingredients, a snug, romantic ambiance, and an amazing value. the host/waiter makes everyone feel like an old friend. what a gem!
Great Paninis & Bruschetta. Great Value. Nice Ambiance - dim lighting, exposed brick walls. REALLY small, a little cramped, and crowded, but this problem is solved if you go during off-hours.
The Best Paninis!!!!!! – Went here just before Christmas for the first time after hearing alot about this place. I wasn't disappointed at all. The panini's were among the best sandwich's I have had in the city and the wine list was great. I highly recommend the cheese plate too. Great inexpensive meal for lunch or for dinner. I highly recommend it.
small but nice – fun fun fun great service nice people highly recomend it
Best deal (and panini) in NYC – Me and 5 friends went here for our annual Holiday dinner and were blown away from the moment we walked in the door! We got lucky in that we were able to get a table within 30 minutes. The bartender and waiter were both attentive and very helpful. The food was absolutely amazing. We had apps, Brushetta, and panini and all were fabulous. The unique combination for the paninis made it very difficult to decide which one to eat. We were all pleasantly surprised. I highly recommend this place for great food at an unbelievable price!
Horrible service and mediocre food!! – A friend and I went here for brunch b/c we both heard so many good things about the place. To our disappointment,the waitress was very rude and inpatient with us. On top of this, when another customer spilled OJ all over my friend's food and clothes, the staff was very apathetic and rude in dealing with the situation. Furthermore, the food is over-rated and over-priced!!!! Skip this place and get a panini machine!!!
wine and unwind – This is a great place to recharge the batteries with a glass of wine, a few cigarettes (thank God) and a delicious panini. Bring a good conversationalist and get there early or really late.
Closet Case! – Would sit in this little closet anytime! Truffle toast with asparagus worth an hour's wait. Solid wine list but the panini's are the main draw. Nice bar to sit at, too. Sweet, adorable staff.
The Best Paninis – This place was a real treat. I tried half the crostinas and loved them all. All the dishes had fresh ingrediants and were very creative.
great wine, great sandwiches – This closet-sized little eatery has a great collection of wine, by the glass, carafe, and bottle. The wine is good, not too expensive. The food consisted of appetizers and appetizers, no real entrees. With a party of three, we had 2 bottles of wine, a cheese plate, three panini sandwiches, some bruschettas, and we were quite full and happy.
perfect – for a date, dinner with a good friend, whatever. the antipasti platter is phenomonal. delicious salads and a great wine selection. very intimate setting. it's a great bargain too.
makes me sick! – too many damn beautiful people. even at lunch. even the staff. makes me sick. everything i have tried is great! keep getting platters etc. cuz i want it all! why did i find this place AFTER i changed jobs 12 blocks away? oh, did i reiterate what everyone else said? GREAT FOOD GREAT PRICES! hope it stays!!!
9 – A wonderful slice of Europe on Bedford. Usually an annoying wait because word has gotten out but the steal of a cheese plate and antipasto are well worth it. Hoegardden on tap is an added bonus if you're not drinking from the well versed wine menu.
a gem – Loved this place. Tiny and cramped, but who cares. The staff is friendly and warm. The food is delicious and there's a good wine list. This place makes you feel good. Plus, if you're a smoker the place is doubly dreamy.
Straight 10 – Best food, great wine and I love the staff. Couldn't ask for more.
Sandwiches you crave for – Salty meat, stinky cheese and crunchy bread. Sounds like a boring sandwich? Perhaps at other places, but not at 'ino. Once you try their sampler platter and get a selection of panino sandwiches, you'll kick yourself for not going to this place earlier. Get some prosecco, an olive appetizer and just eat away. Only drawback to the place? Super crowded every time I go.