Aurora: Version Soho

I had the chance to go to Aurora in Brooklyn about a month ago. I'd heard that this much-loved Williamsburg Italian spot was opening in Soho and I wanted to scope out the original before diving into the offshoot. My experience then was impeccable, and I am happy to report that the Broome Street rendition is just as delicious.

My copy editor/literary agent, a self-proclaimed picky eater with a penchant for mushrooms and pasta, was in heaven when she and I sat down to eat at one of the rustic tables last month. Traditional, spot-on dishes like the pizzetta with proscuitto and buffalo mozzarella and the octopus and wax bean salad are stand out starters. Follow them up with one of the "fatti in casa" pastas. Of course, we were partial to the ravioli, which came ladled with morels, hen of the woods, and crimini 'shrooms. This Aurora captures the same earthy, homey vibe as its original, with Italian speaking waiters and fare that's just simply fantastic. Welcome to the 'hood!