Saggio
Italian · Washington Heights · $$
4.4(779)
Washington Heights, New York, NY · $
Alluring French- Spanish Tapas Restaurant and Lounge.
“Chez Messy is the definition of a neighborhood hidden gem—unassuming from the outside, yet delivering an experience that easily justifies traveling across the city. There’s an immediate sense of care the moment you walk in, from the warm welcome to the thoughtfully curated atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels rooted in its community while still offering a level of quality and execution that stands out well beyond the neighborhood. The food is where Chez Messy truly shines. The octopus is a standout, expertly cooked to achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and char, bringing out deep, savory flavors in every bite. The salmon is equally impressive—rich, delicate, and cooked with precision—while the steak and egg is indulgent, satisfying, and beautifully balanced, showcasing both comfort and refinement on a single plate. Each dish reflects a clear respect for ingredients and technique without unnecessary embellishment. Equally memorable is the cocktail program. The drinks are creative yet approachable, thoughtfully balanced, and crafted with the same attention to detail as the food. Whether you’re starting the evening with a cocktail or lingering over one at the end of the meal, the bar program elevates the overall experience and complements the menu seamlessly rather than competing with it. What truly sets Chez Messy apart is the hospitality. The team is passionate, attentive, and remarkably detail-oriented, striking that perfect balance between professionalism and genuine warmth. It’s clear they care deeply about both the food and the people they’re serving, creating an atmosphere that feels personal and welcoming. Chez Messy isn’t just a great neighborhood spot—it’s a destination worth seeking out.”
“WOW! Chez Messy is an INSTANT new fav!!! We absolutely love the atmosphere! From across the street to the inside - this place just feels awesome. Cocktails - Mezcal-based were fantastic! The Citrus Marrow - OMG!!The chef presented two options to us - never experienced that. The finished product sent me...... Everything we tested was cooked to perfection and incredible. The staff? Attentive, friendly, and inviting. Will be back with reinforcements!!!!”
“A Spectacular Transition: Speakeasy Vibe to Dance Floor! We chose Chez Mezzy for a much-needed girls' night out celebrating a birthday on Saturday, and it was truly spectacular—the best decision we could have made. A Hidden Gem in the middle of Washington Heights. From the moment you arrive you feel you are somewhere else. The atmosphere alone is worth the five stars. It begins with a sophisticated speakeasy vibe, perfect for conversation and settling in, but then seamlessly transitions into a high-energy lounge! The shift in energy, perfectly orchestrated by DJ John, was phenomenal. Hearing those classic '90s jams made us drop our menus and stay way past dessert. If you’re looking for a spot that promises more than just a meal, this is it. The culinary and cocktail teams deserve endless praise. Our drinks were delicious—every single one was expertly crafted and unique. A massive thank you to our bartender, Santos, whose recommendations and mixing skills are top-tier; his creations were definitely the highlight of the night. The food was also exceptionally good. While I’m kicking myself for forgetting his name, the Chef and the entire kitchen staff delivered dishes that were fresh, flavorful, and perfectly executed. Finally, thank you to the management and front-of-house staff for making us feel so welcome and ensuring the night ran smoothly. A special shout-out to Antonio for the amazing hospitality and for truly creating an unforgettable experience. Highly, highly recommend this spot for a birthday, celebration, or just an awesome Saturday night! We'll absolutely be back.”
“Five of us went to Chez Messy. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. We had the octopus appetizer as well as the shrimp in garlic sauce. Yummy. We had the churrasco with tostones. The steak was nicely cooked and seasoned. The tostones were big and crispy. We also had the chicken wings and the chicken entree. We enjoyed them all. The ambience was nice and mellow with good music. Our waiter, Joshua, was excellent: friendly, very knowledgeable about the menu, AMD made great recommendations. The drinks were really good, especially la mula and the lychee martini. We will go gain for flamenco night.”
“Can’t wait to go back! This little place is a hidden gem. Antonio and his staff paid attention to details and made our night stand out. We arrived on a Wednesday during happy hour. All of the tapas plates and desserts were delicious. Their cocktails were well crafted. The atmosphere was lively and fun. This particular evening, they had a great salsa band perform. Everything was so enjoyable. We had a great time. Would definitely recommend.”
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