Bar Primi in the Penn District brings a much-needed breath of fresh air to an area long dominated by uninspired dining options. Tucked away on West 33rd Street, this newcomer delivers the same pasta-forward Italian goodness that made the Bowery original a hit, but with a vibe tailored perfectly to its location near Penn Station and Hudson Yards.

What makes this spot stand out is how it transforms simple pasta dishes into something extraordinary through perfect execution and quality ingredients. Their bucatini with sheep’s milk pecorino and cracked black pepper might sound basic, but it arrives with that ideal al dente bite and a sauce that clings to each strand just so. The ricotta calda with hot honey deserves its status as a must-order starter – warm, creamy cheese with a sweet-spicy kick that you’ll find yourself thinking about days later.

The space strikes that elusive balance between energetic and comfortable, with a bar area perfect for solo dining or catching a quick pre-game meal before heading to MSG. Unlike many spots in the area, the service feels genuinely warm rather than rushed, with staff who seem to actually enjoy working there.

While prices have increased everywhere in NYC, Bar Primi still delivers solid value with generous portions and a wine list featuring interesting Italian options by the glass that won’t break the bank.

This is exactly the restaurant the neighborhood has been waiting for – casual enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for celebrations.