I’ve had the experience walking through Times Square of having a flyer for a strip show thrust in my direction, but I’ve never noticed the hand protruding through a small rounded-arched window holding out a glass of wine on Broadway between 43rd and 44th Streets. Maybe I was just on the wrong block because Buchette del Vino NYC, a Tuscan restaurant on the other side of that wall, has been extending its ancient hospitality to passersby since its inception in early June.
I say ancient hospitality because the custom of handing a glass of liquid refreshment to thirsty pilgrims originated in Florence in the seventeenth century. The purpose of passing the wine through a crack in the wall — which became nicknamed buchette del vino or “wine windows” — was to keep the transaction discreet.
The custom had a brief resurgence in Florence during COVID. And now it is here thanks to Chef Jack Logue and Chris Miller — the team behind The Lambs Club.
In addition to wine, the restaurant serves warm paninis, fresh pasta, gelato, and espresso.
Buchette del Vino NYC, 200 W. 43rd Street.
