Marc Forgione Opens One Fifth in Greenwich Village

Photos: Evan Sung                                                                                             

Marc Forgione is adding One Fifth to his restaurant repertoire. Located in the former Otto space in Greenwich Village (One Fifth Avenue, at 8th Street), The restaurant draws its influence from Forgione’s Italian heritage with a focus on local ingredients from the Union Square Greenmarket just a few blocks away, as well as Roman-style pinsa, and robust Italian inspired cocktail menu and wine list.

Start with some snacks like Smashed Burrata with Peach and Cucumber; Squash Blossom Zeppole with Hot Maple Syrup; and Seppia (cuttlefish) with Cherry Tomato Bang Bang.

Pinsa are oval shaped Roman-style pizza with a cloud-like chewy interior and crispy exterior. This section of the menu was developed in conjunction with Forgione’s father, chef Larry Forgione.  Toppings include Garlic with Parmesan, Smoked Pecorino, and Ricotta; Clams and Nduja, Potato and Gremolata; and Summer Squash and Ricotta Passita.

House-made pastas, hand-crafted in the open kitchen, include Smoked Linguine with Manila Clams; Red Pepper Rigatoni with Duck Sausage and Peppas; and Cappelletti with Pesto and Salvatore’s Ricotta.  Larger plates range from Chicken Piccata to Yellowfin Tuna with Husk Cherry, and Prime Hanger Steak with green tomato and horseradish.

Pastry Chef Jami Callao is cooking up desserts like local Peach Crostata, Key Lime Tarts as well as market-driven gelato and sorbet to round out the menu.

The wine list, curated by Beverage Director Scott Woltz (Babbo, Eleven Madison Park), features classic varietals from both Italy and the U.S. by the bottle and glass, including a special Riserva selection featuring wines from sought after producers and vintages.  Classic cocktails also have an Italian twist, while an Amaro section showcases Amari from each of Italy’s 20 distinct regions.

The space at One Fifth has been home to restaurants for nearly 100 years and features classic art deco design elements with rustic Italian heritage antiques (like the 200-year old butcher block turned host stand), along with salvaged panel woodworkings, 19th century inspired chandeliers, and an heirloom piano.

For more information, visit onefifthnyc.com