Il Bastardo - Chelsea's Exclusive Tuscan Grill And Wine Bar

Having successfully conquered New Yorkers' demand for quality Italian cuisine with its multiple Manhattan restaurants, the New York City Restaurant Group (NYCRG), has switched gears. Its latest restaurant endeavor is IL BASTARDO (191 Seventh Avenue at 21st Street, New York, NY 10011; 212.675.5980), a fashionable Tuscan Grill and Wine Bar located in the heart of Chelsea. Providing the neighborhood with a much needed steak house destination, IL BASTARDO is Chelsea's answer to reasonably priced quality meats, fresh seafood selections and savory wines in a casual, yet sophisticated and chic ambience.

With its name translating to "The Bastard" and derived from its house wine, a "fat, rich and luxurious" Italian wine of the same name, IL BASTARDO aims to please every hungry carnivore, seafood lover and wine aficionado. Consulting Chef Camille Bassani (Nero, NYC) has created the straightforward menu which is being executed by Executive Chef Joseph Cacace (Chango, The Boathouse in Central Park, Gramercy Tavern, NYC). Specialties include as appetizers, Beef Carpaccio with Mache, Parmigiano and Cremini Mushrooms in Arugula Dressing ($10) and Speck with Seasonal Fresh Fruit ($10). Protein lovers will be in bliss with the simply prepared grill selections, such as perfectly Aged New York Sirloin Steak ($20), Fat Bastard Burger on Kaiser Roll with Gorgonzola, Pancetta and Red Onion ($14), and Red Snapper Fillet ($17), all served with Field Greens, Baby Vegetables and Herbed Tuscan Potatoes. In addition to the house wine, Il Bastardo Sandiovese ($7/26), diners may choose from an extensive selection of International wines, served either by quartino (1/4 liter) or full bottle (average $9/34). For dessert, IL BASTARDO offers several mouthwatering selections, including Crosta di Mele Calda con Gelato, Tortino di Picotta and Crespelle all'Arancio con Cioccolato ($7 each).

Partnering with four non-food industry types, including Model Adam Senn, General Surgeon Spencer Holover, M.D., renowned Swedish Plastic Surgeon Davide Evdokimow, and Astoria's Dimitrius Partridge, as well as with General Manager Gino Piscobo (Nero, NYC), Bobby and Enrico Malta of the reputable NYCRG (Puttanesca, Cara Mia, Arte Cafe) are attracting all industry types to their new venture. The space, which was formerly Viscaya lounge, was designed by ICRAVE Design Studio (Crobar, Aer Lounge). From its prime location on Seventh Avenue next to its sister restaurant, Sette, locals are drawn in by IL BASTARDO's large store front windows that open directly to the street. With its dark mahogany wood floors, candle lit tables, exposed brick walls, and high reflecting ceilings that resemble upside down water, the space is as inviting as it is captivating. Its refined 40-foot bar, whose backdrop exhibits a large gray lateral window shade in front of sultry red and white scenery, caters to fourteen and is a comfortable spot for guests to whet their appetites, mingle and even enjoy a full meal. The vibe is cool, with its mixed International beats, ranging from Brazilian to Italian, and the service is personalized and genuine.

IL BASTARDO is open seven days a week for dinner, and plans to open for weekend brunch in the Fall. With seating for 90, including its bar and semi-private back room, plus an additional restricted private room, IL BASTARDO is the perfect location for hosting a private party.