[Photo: Kathy Chan]

It was the caramel pool that won me over. Deep and smooth, with an unexpected and gorgeous shock of lemon. So bright! How lovely it would have been poured over a cup of their housemade vanilla gelato. The caramel stole the show, but the Torta Della Nonna ($8) itself was swell, with a pastry cream filling, and pine nut-dotted surface. But should the tart not call your name, I can also heartily recommend the refreshing Sformato Di Ricotta ($9), served with figs and honey.

Maialino

2 Lexington Avenue, New York NY 10010 (map)
212-777-2410
maialinonyc.com/