The Early Word on Osteria Morini

Osteria Morini is New York restaurateur Michael White's first foray into the D.C. market. It's also one of the few higher-end dining choices available to the Navy Yard crowd. Because of both of these factors, anticipation was high for the Italian restaurant. Has it lived up to the hype? Here's what the first Yelpers, bloggers and others say about Osteria Morini.

The Blown Away News: A Facebook rave from diner Clint says, " just dined here with a friend from out of town and was blown away by the quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the tasteful atmosphere. Bravo Osteria Morini DC team for a job well done for only being open a week." [Facebook]

The Service News: Also on Facebook, Jennifer says, "We had an AMAZING dinner Friday night! The service was impeccable. The wait staff was very attentive to us as well. We have been to the other Morini's in Soho, NY and Bernardsville, NJ and they are both AMAZING as well! If you live in any of these areas OR are visiting you MUST stop in." [Facebook]

The Amari News: DailyCandy checks in, saying, "NYC-based chef Michael White (Marea) brings his pillowy pastas down I-95. Dive into plates of meats and cheeses; White's famous truffle cappelletti and tons of other noodles; roasted meat and fish; and classic desserts like olive oil cake, panna cotta, and tiramisu. Anyone with an inch left to fill can sip one of a dozen amari." [DC]

The Ambiance News: K Street Magazine chimes in, "Prime among the somewhat limited options in the Navy Yard area, Morini's open floor plan and soothing ambiance — plus those gorgeous views of the south waterfront — offer an ideal place for happy hours, dates, family meals or sophisticated client dinners. " [KSM]

The Must Try News: EatMore DrinkMore goes to the opening event. "Osteria Morini is officially open as of yesterday, 11/19, with Executive Chef Matt Adler at the helm who is known for his housemade pastas that are sure to make the restaurant soar to the top of the "must try" list for all Washingtonians. I'm excited to welcome Osteria Morini to town, and can't wait to see this neighborhood continue to grow and expand the culinary scene." [EMDM]

The Date News: Guest of a Guest recommends Osteria Morini for its weekend date pick. "Chef Michael White has finally given DC an Osteria Morini! The restaurant is a staple in NYC (and NJ, random) and has situated "on the Southeast Waterfront. The restaurant just opened up so make sure to grab a reservation!" [GoaG]

The Hearty News: BrightestYoungThings previews the place. "It's a cold, blistery day and you're seeking warmth this winter; search no more for the perfect hearty restaurant because New York's Michael White has all of D.C. covered when it comes to gourmet cuisine just perfect for days (and nights) like this. Perched right on Capitol Waterfront, the chef's trend yOsteria Morini opened its doors to the District yesterday with 4,250 square feet of modern rustic design, beautiful high ceilings and a menu that'll keep you coming back long past winter." [BYT]

The View News: UrbanDaddy says, "here's some pasta. And lots of it. But first: a table. If they've got one near the many windows... take it. If not, head for the bar and bide your time with a Passione Arrabiata, made with lime, passion-fruit puree and tequila infused with Calabrian chilies. Or maybe one of their house beers, like a lager brewed with oregano or a stout brewed with fernet herbs. Then on to egg-laden, hand-cut pasta like truffled ricotta ravioli and lasagna verde, along with prime NY strips cut for two and whole grilled fish." [UD]

The Twitter Rave: @KDixonDC Tweets, "Tried out @OsteriaMoriniDC tonight, loved it. Accommodated this vegetarian on the pasta menu, and the crostini and gelato were amazing." [Twitter]

The Expensive News: Osteria Morini is earning 4 stars on Yelp with 14 reviews in. Abbey B says, "The food was amazing, which is why I'm giving this four stars. It's priced higher than I'd want to spend normally, but because it was 20% off, it was worth it. Everything was luscious, perfectly seasoned, and flavorful. The tortellini in brodo was incredible--Parmesan-flavored broth and meaty tortellini...Overall, a great food experience, but I don't think it would be a place I'd go back to based on price." [Yelp]

The Portions News: Also on Yelp, Eric K likes the pasta and meatballs, but isn't into the portion sizes or music choice. " They're small. I'd liked to have seen about 25% more all across the board. I'm a hungry guy, and I can't break the bank just to get full. This place is not exactly cheap." [Yelp]

The Vegetarian Warning: Sara M thinks there's a lot of meat on the menu. "My only concern is that the menu had virtually no vegetarian options. As someone who eats some fish and poultry, but not red meat or pork, I found that I was limited to only a handful of main dishes. The pasta dish I ordered was the only vegetarian pasta, which is a shame. It would be great if they would expand with one or two more vegetarian pastas to ensure several options for everyone." [Yelp]
· All Previous Coverage of Osteria Morini [-EDC-]