Murano Ristorante brings a slice of Northern Italian elegance to Midtown East that feels both authentic and approachable. This refined spot has managed to carve out a loyal following in an area saturated with business lunch venues by focusing on exceptional ingredients and warm hospitality.

The dining room strikes that perfect balance between sophistication and comfort with its amber lighting, well-spaced tables, and tasteful Venetian glass accents that nod to the restaurant’s namesake without feeling theme-y. The atmosphere buzzes with energy during lunch but transforms into something more intimate as evening falls.

Their risotto is the standout offering – particularly the saffron version with bone marrow that achieves that elusive perfect consistency: creamy yet maintaining distinct grains of rice with just the right bite. Their handmade pasta dishes deserve equal praise, especially the pappardelle with wild boar ragù that balances rustic richness with refined technique.

What truly distinguishes Murano is how the staff treats everyone like a regular, whether you’re a C-suite executive from a nearby office tower or a tourist who wandered in from Fifth Avenue. The sommelier deserves special mention for suggesting interesting Italian wines by the glass that won’t break the bank.

While not inexpensive, Murano delivers a level of quality and genuine hospitality that makes it worth seeking out when you’re craving sophisticated Italian fare without pretension in the heart of Manhattan.