Bar Primi Penn District is not just another spot for Italian food in New York City — it’s a lively, modern destination that brings together great flavors, a stylish setting, and a convenient location in one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. If you're looking for handmade pasta, fresh ingredients, and a dining experience that’s both relaxed and refined, then Bar Primi in the Penn District is definitely worth a visit.

If you're heading to Penn Station or Madison Square Garden and want a place to grab a bite before or after your plans, Bar Primi Penn District is right around the corner. Located at 349 W 33rd St between 8th and 9th Avenues, this eatery fits perfectly into the fast-moving rhythm of Midtown. The restaurant’s spacious layout, warm lighting, and friendly service make it a go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite or a tourist trying to find a solid Italian meal near Penn Station, Bar Primi Penn District offers something for everyone. From brunch to late-night dinners, the menu is designed to satisfy a variety of tastes while staying true to its Italian roots. So, if you haven’t checked it out yet, now’s the time to plan your visit — and maybe even book a table online.

• Teryl Rothery

Table of Contents

1. A Prime Spot in Midtown Manhattan
2. What to Expect From the Dining Experience
3. Handmade Pasta and More: The Menu Highlights
4. How to Make a Reservation or Order Online
5. Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Primi Penn District

A Prime Spot in Midtown Manhattan

Bar Primi Penn District sits right in the middle of one of the busiest parts of New York City. It’s located just a few blocks from Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, making it super easy to pop in before a train ride or a concert. The address is 349 W 33rd St, tucked between 8th and 9th Avenues — a part of town that’s seen a lot of new restaurants and bars opening up in recent years.

The location is a big part of what makes this place so popular. If you're coming in from the suburbs or another state, stepping off the train at Penn Station and heading straight to Bar Primi is a pretty smooth move. You can grab a bite, relax a bit, and enjoy the energy of the city without going out of your way.

The Penn District itself is booming with new developments, and Bar Primi fits right into that vibe. It’s part of a larger trend of high-quality dining options showing up in more accessible parts of town, rather than just tucked away in trendy neighborhoods like SoHo or the West Village.

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What to Expect From the Dining Experience

Bar Primi Penn District is known for its welcoming atmosphere and stylish decor. The space is open and airy, with a bar area that feels lively without being overwhelming. The lighting is warm, the seating is comfortable, and the whole place has a modern Italian feel that’s hard to find elsewhere in Midtown.

One thing that stands out about Bar Primi is that it’s not just a place to grab a quick bite. It’s designed to be a destination — a place where you can sit down, enjoy a meal, and maybe even meet up with friends or coworkers after a long day. The staff is friendly, the service is efficient, and the vibe is just right for a casual night out.

It’s also worth noting that the restaurant is part of the Noho Hospitality Group, which has a solid reputation for creating spaces that feel both upscale and approachable. That’s definitely the case here — you won’t find anything too stuffy or overly trendy, just a solid, well-run Italian restaurant that knows how to make guests feel at home.

Handmade Pasta and More: The Menu Highlights

At the heart of Bar Primi is its Italian menu, with a strong focus on handmade pasta. If you love fresh, homemade noodles, this is the place to be. Everything from the dough to the sauces is made in-house, which really shows in the flavor and quality of the dishes.

Some of the most popular items include:

• Tagliatelle with slow-braised short rib
• Pappardelle with wild mushrooms
• Orecchiette with broccoli rabe and spicy sausage
• Housemade pappardelle with duck ragù

Each dish is made with care and attention to detail. The pasta is cooked just right — al dente, with a nice bite — and the sauces are rich without being too heavy. Even the simpler dishes, like the cacio e pepe, are executed beautifully, showing that this place really knows how to work with classic Italian flavors.

If you’re not in the mood for pasta, there are also plenty of appetizers and main courses to choose from. The seafood dishes are fresh, and the meat options are hearty and satisfying. And for dessert, you can’t go wrong with the tiramisu or the panna cotta — both are creamy, rich, and the perfect way to end your meal.

How to Make a Reservation or Order Online

One of the best things about Bar Primi Penn District is how easy it is to plan your visit. You can make a reservation through The Fork or directly on their website, which is super handy if you want to avoid waiting in line. Just pick your date, time, and party size, and you’re all set.

For those who’d rather eat at home, the restaurant also offers online ordering through platforms like TripAdvisor. That means you can enjoy the same high-quality Italian food without even stepping inside the restaurant. The online menu is clearly laid out, and the ordering process is smooth and user-friendly.

If you’re new to the area or just passing through, it’s a good idea to check their hours before showing up. Bar Primi is open from 5 PM to 11 PM on Sundays through Thursdays, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Brunch service is available too, making this a great option for weekend getaways or late breakfasts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bar Primi Penn District

Is Bar Primi Penn District family-friendly?
Yes, it is! Families are welcome, and the menu has enough variety to please both kids and adults. The space is spacious and the lighting isn’t too dim, so it’s a good spot for dining with younger guests.

Do I need a reservation?
While walk-ins are accepted, it’s definitely a good idea to book a table ahead of time, especially on weekends. The restaurant gets pretty busy, and you don’t want to risk waiting too long for a seat.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, there are! The menu includes several vegetarian-friendly pasta dishes, and some can be made vegan upon request. The staff is usually pretty accommodating when it comes to dietary preferences.

If you're looking for more tips on dining in NYC, check out our guide on Italian restaurants near Penn Station and discover more hidden gems in the area.

Bar Primi Penn District is part of a growing trend of high-quality restaurants popping up in more accessible parts of the city. If you're curious about what else is new in the neighborhood, you might also want to read up on the latest openings in the Midtown dining scene.