Ulivo is the Mediterranean escape you didn’t know you needed in NoMad. The moment you step inside, you’re enveloped by a space that somehow manages to be both airy and intimate, with olive trees, terracotta accents, and natural woods creating a coastal European ambiance that feels miles away from the Manhattan hustle.

What makes Ulivo truly shine is their commitment to letting stellar ingredients speak for themselves. The menu draws inspiration from across the Mediterranean, with particular emphasis on Italian coastal cuisine. Their house-made pastas are nothing short of magnificent – perfectly al dente and dressed in sauces that showcase seasonal produce. The seafood dishes deserve special mention, particularly their whole branzino, which arrives at your table with the perfect crispy skin and tender, flavorful flesh that tastes like it was swimming earlier that day.

The wine program focuses on small producers from lesser-known regions around the Mediterranean, and the knowledgeable staff is genuinely excited to guide you through options that complement your meal. While certainly not a budget spot, Ulivo delivers value through an experience that balances sophistication with approachability. It’s the rare restaurant that works equally well for a celebratory dinner, a business lunch, or simply when you need to transport yourself to the Mediterranean without leaving Manhattan.