Primitivo - Great Food, Great Prices, Great Location!

Primitivo has already amassed quite a loyal following. When I mentioned the place to a friend who works nearby, she immediately exclaimed, “I love that restaurant!” Since she also couldn't extol more adamantly on Primitivo's prix fixe lunch specials, I decided to check them out.

What delectable bargains! For a mere $8.95 you'll find delicious eats served in exquisite style. Specials include choice of homemade soup or salad, an entree plus beverage. For a few dollars more you may also opt for other treats which change daily. Not able to resist the Chicken Primitivo ($12.95) and the Wild Boar Ravioli ($14.95), my friend and I chose the latter course. As I said, soup or salad comes with, so to prelude my chicken I selected the Insalata di Campo while my companion's more daring wild boar entee seemed to demand the Caesar Salad. These garden delights were huge, fresh and caressed with just perfect amounts of dressing. Too few of those Italian Tuscan bread croutons in the Caesar was our one complaint—but when you're asking for more it's gotta be good! My chicken, a plump breast sauteed and bathed in mozzarella, was delicious and the accompanying pan-roasted rosemary potatoes burst with awesome flavor. The ravioli was rich and tasty but a touch less salt would have made it absolutely sing.

Though desserts aren't included in the specials, for only $6 more you should definitely try one. The memory of the Chocolate Tort, served rich, warm and moist beside hazelnut gelato still has my mouth watering. My friend's Panna Cotta, a vanilla custard pudding in a wild berry sauce, was another winner—smooth and flavorful.

If you haven't already become one of Primitivo's devoted regulars, check it out. Though we did lunch, they also offer daily dinner specials, an amazing prix-fixe brunch menu on weekends (unlimited Mimosas!), homemade pastas and a delightful wine selection not to be missed. Such wonderful food, amazing prices and a location convenient to both Chelsea and the West Village make it worth many repeat visits.—David Douglas

Primitivo, 202 West 14th St, 212-255-2060, www.PrimitivoRestaurant.com