Rule of thumb: If a dish is included in the restaurant’s name, it's probably done right. Introducing Lasagna Ristorante on 20th & 8th, in the heart of Chelsea. With more locations on the East Side and Hell’s Kitchen, this little Italian hotspot is booming with business all over Manhattan - and it’s a good thing, too! They serve up 17- count e’m- 17 variations on lasagna, including a “create your own” option.

But not to worry, fellow veggie-lovers: 8 out of the 17 lasagnas are vegetarian! From artichoke hearts with capers to garlicky eggplant, there’s no lack of creativity when it comes to the title dish. It won’t put a hole in your wallet, either. Their gigantic original lasagna costs only $13 bucks… and I bet you can’t finish it.

Made from scratch and served in a piping hot ceramic dish, one of these babies is a serious meal for one and a well-portioned meal for two. The lasagna is always cooked to perfection with crispy edges, melted Parmesan, Mozzarella, and sweet Ricotta. I usually go for the Spinach lasagna or Primavera, loaded with yellow squash, zucchini and carrots. Lasagna also serves up a ton of pasta options. I especially like their spinach fettuccine with artichokes, asparagus and fresh mozzarella in pink sauce ($14). They opt to keep the mozzarella cold in this dish, which adds a nice textural contrast to the creaminess of sauce and pasta.

But wait, there’s more! A liquor license! From a respectable wine list to their seriously mouthwatering/ girly Tiramisu cocktail, the bar is loaded and the prices are right. You’ll love the intimate, laid back atmosphere (one that I find the Hell’s Kitchen location lacks), and it’s always packed, which is a telltale sign of a neighborhood favorite. 

I’ve frequented this place with friends, family and the boyfriend- all of whom have raved about the food. My father, in particular, is quite the fanatic. So forget those overpriced, touristy, inauthentic Italian Theater District restaurants and pop on over to Chelsea’s Lasagna Ristorante. Your taste buds and wallet (and Garfield) will thank you.