Originally Posted by Analise
Many of us who know Italian food are indeed natives so whatever your views of "NYC" life is, those are your views. They may not reflect reality for a native. I find it bizarre that distinguishing Italian cuisine from chain cooking makes one snooty. Your view I guess.
That said, your comparison with barbeque is a good one. You can't find good bbq in New York. In fact, smoking pits aren't even legal in the city. So how can anything be authentic. Likewise, you aren't going to Olive Garden for any remote sense of authentic Italian cooking. In terms of "cuisine" it's on par with the likes of Applebee's.
Analise, I think I may not be clear in what I'm trying to say. I am a native NYer, having been born and raised in Manhattan, and in the low rent area. Although I don't live there now, I am in a close enough suburb that I get into the city often. I agree with all that you've said. I was replying to JS's post about snotty, overpriced Italian restaurants in NYC. As far as I can see from reading your posts, we're on the same page. Especially with your tag line!
