Vol. I · New York · MMXXV
For Those Who Prioritize the Palate
A Review — New York

Don Angie

A modern Italian-American kitchen where the Chrysanthemum Salad and Buffalo Milk Caramelle are quietly two of the city's best plates.

Don Angie has built a critical following on inventive pastas and shared plates. We came expecting the famous Lasagna for Two — and discovered, instead, that the salad and the caramelle were the dishes worth writing home about.

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Salad

Chrysanthemum Salad

Of all the showstoppers on Don Angie's menu, the Chrysanthemum Salad might be the most unexpectedly brilliant. From the moment it arrives, you know you're in for a treat.

The first bite is a delightful mix of familiarity and surprise; the fresh, slightly bitter taste of the chrysanthemum greens is perfectly balanced by the sharp, salty flavor of a generous shaving of parmesan. But it's the subtle complexities that truly make this salad shine — a subtle sesame aftertaste emerges, adding a nutty, toasty depth that is simply sublime.

Adding to the symphony of textures is the perfect amount of croutons, providing essential crunch. Refreshing, complex, and utterly delicious — one of the best on the entire menu.

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Pasta

Buffalo Milk Caramelle

Prepare yourself for another absolute blowout: the Buffalo Milk Caramelle. This is not your average pasta; it's a brilliantly inventive, sweet take on a classic.

The first bite is an explosion of flavor. You are immediately hit with the luxurious sweetness of the sauce, perfectly balanced by exquisitely cooked, delicate pasta pillows. The buffalo milk filling is creamy and rich, but the real masterstroke is the addition of candied kumquats — they provide a bright, citrusy counterpoint that cuts through the richness and adds welcome complexity.

From start to finish, every bite is an adventure, exploding with layers of flavor. An essential plate that you will be thinking about long after your meal is over.

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Entrée

Veal "da Pepi"

The Veal "da Pepi" arrives with an impressive presentation. The first bite is wholesome and comforting — the veal itself is cooked perfectly, tender and moist, a testament to technical skill.

However, despite this harmony, the dish feels like it's lacking something crucial. The components are well-executed but don't quite manage to elevate the dish to a 'wow' factor. The primary issue seems to be a need for more seasoning. Furthermore, the horseradish is so subtle that you can't really get the horseradish taste, which feels like a missed opportunity.

A solid, enjoyable plate that, with a few adjustments, could easily match the greatness of other items on the menu.

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Side

Japanese Sweet Potatoes

While the famous pastas might get all the attention, the Japanese Sweet Potatoes are an undeniable sleeper hit. From the very first bite, you're met with perfectly fried sweet potatoes that are full of flavor and seasoned to perfection — exactly the right amount of crispiness on the outside, giving way to a soft, sweet interior.

What elevates this dish is the brilliant combination of components: sweet, crispy potatoes, a savory cheese, a wonderfully wholesome sauce, and a final, fresh touch from a sprinkle of dill. Don't make the mistake of overlooking this one.

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Dessert

Black Cocoa Tiramisu

Don Angie's Black Cocoa Tiramisu is a brilliant and modern reinterpretation of a beloved classic. If you're expecting a traditional tiramisu, you're in for a delightful surprise.

The first thing you'll notice is the incredible texture. A beautifully creamy exterior gives way to satisfyingly crunchy layers within. The key is the layer of caramel flakes nestled in the middle, which provides a much-needed crunchy component to every spoonful.

But the true genius lies at its base. A layer of black cocoa cake at the bottom absorbs a lot of the espresso from the layer above it, creating a unique, deeply flavorful foundation. One of the best and most interesting versions you're likely to find.

From the Bar

Liquid Notes

Order

Margherita

A bold and assertive take on the classic — unmistakably tequila-forward. Blood orange flavor complements the tequila well, with a subtle chili aftertaste providing gentle warmth. A solid choice for any tequila lover.

Order

The Italian Coffee Situation

Simply put, a great espresso martini. Beautifully balances coffee and vodka with a lovely, subtle taste of caramel. Smooth and delicious — one of the better espresso martinis I've had.

The Verdict

Dish Deconstructed

A four-pillar framework. One to five.

First Bite
4
/ 5
Flavor Journey
4
/ 5
Technical Execution
3
/ 5
Order Again
4
/ 5
Honestly Speaking

Order the Chrysanthemum Salad, the Buffalo Milk Caramelle, and the Japanese Sweet Potatoes. The veal can be skipped.

In Context

The Critics, Side by Side

Honestly Speaking 3.75 / 5
Yelp4.5 / 5
Google4.6 / 5
The Infatuation8.4 / 10