NYC: Ciano Restaurant

Ciano is the new home of Shea Gallante, the former CRU chef. I had the privilege to wine and dine at Ciano’s ‘Sneak Peek’ event on October 27th. The restaurant begins taking reservations on November 4th, and opening night is November 5th.

Interior of Ciano Credit: Ciano Restaurant

Below is a snapshot of what the first floor looks like. From what my bartender told me, there is are 2 additional floors. The restaurant and bar has a nice relaxing, homey feel.

I’ve also learned the menu of Ciano is focused on seasonal ingredients, rather than the specific cuisine of a particular Italian region. I don’t know what exactly will be featured on the menu, but from what I’ve tasted at the sneak peek, I’m sure they will be delightful. Of all the bite-size hors d’oeuvres I’ve sampled that night, the tuna topped with dill resting atop a slice of cucumber was my favorite.

The desserts at Ciano were amazing. Maybe it’s my aura, but the waitstaff kept dropping off plates for me to try: hazelnuts dusted with confectioners sugar, hazelnut pastries, mini chocolate cookies, and endless Italian cookies. It’s too bad I don’t know the names of these treats (I’m going off of memory).

Some of their signature cocktails will be:
Prickly Pear Margarita – Prickly pear puree, Avion Tequila, fresh lime and orange juice with a splash of Cointreau

Lychee Lime Martini – Lychee puree, vanilla vodka, kaffir lime leaves, coconut milk and fresh lime juice

The lychee martini was delicious. I was expecting the typical lychee martini with an actual lychee floating in my drink, but the puree was a nice surprise.

Ciano
45 E 22nd Street
New York, NY