Situated on the third floor of the Time Warner Center with stunning Central Park views, Bad Roman brings a refreshing twist to Italian-American cuisine that manages to be both nostalgic and completely contemporary.

What makes this place stand out is how it embraces the bold, over-the-top spirit of Italian-American food while elevating it with top-notch ingredients and expert technique. Their Caesar salad prepared tableside has become Instagram famous, but it’s not just for show – the dressing has the perfect punch of garlic and anchovy. The massive veal parm is a showstopper, perfectly crisp outside and tender inside, while their pasta dishes strike that elusive balance between comfort and sophistication.

The space itself captures the restaurant’s ethos – dramatic and playful with emerald green booths, striking artwork, and a buzzing energy that makes you feel like you’re at the city’s best dinner party. Despite the upscale location, there’s zero pretension here. The cocktail program deserves special mention, particularly their negroni variations that complement the robust flavors of the food.

Yes, it’s splurgy and reservations are tough, but Bad Roman delivers that rare NYC dining experience that feels special without being stuffy. Perfect for date nights or catching up with friends who appreciate good food and lively atmosphere.