Review: Panino Sportivo

Posted on December 8, 2006

Before going to New York the other day, I looked for new and upcoming eateries in the Columbia-Barnard area. One that caught my eye was Panino Sportivo, which is located beneath Barnard College’s Plimpton Residence Hall in an area that once held rundown and rarely frequented ethnic eateries.

For starters, just seeing people at this restaurant was a good sign to me. There were people coming and going, and a number of tables filled in the small space. That’s a huge improvement from the restaurants that filled those spots when I was a Plimpton resident five years ago.

Looking at the menu, it was difficult to choose just one sandwich. There are so many varied and unique combinations. The Arzu, for instance, combines smoked ham, goat cheese and pesto. The Andrea on the other hand has sliced barlett pears, brie cheese, arugula, toasted pine nuts and honey. I chose to try to the Ronaldo, which features Parma proscuitto, mozzerella di Bufala, tomato and extra virgin olive oil.

It was delightful. The flavors blended and melded together in such a glorious fusion that I couldn’t believe my mouth. It was creamy and savory all at once…Oh I am salivating just remembering it. I whole heartedly recommend this place.

Panino Sportivo

1231 Amsterdam Avenue (b/w 120th and 121st)

New York, NY

(212) 662-2066

This originally appeared on Cucina Bella Reviews.