www.theperryclub.com
157 7th Avenue South (between Perry St. and Waverly Place)
212-407-0411
Italian. Walk in the door and you’re instantly wrapped in the owner’s warmth. He’s truly glad to see you, and it shows. Then downstairs you go, where the vibe is party – complete with spinning disco ball, flower filled branches, and an almost exclusively 80s jam pumping through the night.
But the food in no way takes a backseat cause it’s so freaking good.
I began with baked shrimp scampi and herbed garlic bread (ciabatta, fresh garlic, maldon sea salt, fresh parsley). Hadn’t thought strategy, but that crispy, crunchy bread is ideal for dipping when the wildly fresh seafood is gone.
Mind you, picking apps was not easy. With options like cheesy meatballs, drunken mussels, and a giant one pound ball of mozzarella, all I could think about was coming back.
Next, it was time for pasta. Which, along with their pizza dough, is made in house daily and must not be missed. I indulged in the Perry puttanesca (2 day tomato sauce, Kalamata olives, caperberries and carmelized onions). The noodles are diners choice, the harmony of ingredients utterly unforgettable. And this blissful creation debuts on a deep, generously large plate.
Unshockingly, The Perry Club is also expert at baked chicken parm. With classic pomodoro and fresh mozzarella, it’s hard to envision a more perfect parmesan. Best of all, you’re treated to two pieces, each ridiculously thick.
When it was time to go, I had to drag myself away from the music and the fun. Luckily, I caught the owner right outside so I could rave about every second.
Speaking with him, this is clearly his baby. Even more luckily, we all get visitation.