Porsena, Sara Jenkins' (Porchetta) new Pasta restaurant is a great restaurant. I took myself on a date (like I do most nights) Valentine's Day to this casual spot in the East Village, and was beyond satisfied with each dish. In fact, I completely loved everything I ordered.

Crostini ($8) with Di Palo fresh mozzarella and bottarga di tonno was cheesy goodness, homey, and wonderful.

A special of oysters ($15) was surprisingly warm, but also surprisingly fantastic! I loved the use of bread crumbs on them, giving them a sweet crunch.

And then there is the pasta. Porsena is labeled a "pasta restaurant" so you would expect the pasta to be good. Well friends, I was not disappointed. The pasta is better than good, it is great, fabulous, and a true joy to eat. My pasta of anneloni ($16) with spicy lamb sausage and mustard greens had such delicious flavor and beautiful texture, it became quite the date. I didn't fall in love with a girl this past V-day, I fell in love with a pasta dish.

So stop by Porsena, a truly great spot in NYC. I hope you fall in love too. Love is all you need (and great food!).

Porsena
21 E. 7th St. (bet. 3rd and 2nd)
New York, NY 10003
212-228-4923