When Did the New York Times Last Give an Italian Restaurant 4 Stars?

And the answer is ...

d) 1975

Amazingly, the New York Times hadn't given an Italian restaurant a 4-star review in 35 years until it bestowed the honor on Mario Batali's Del Posto this week. Although many readers' interest in the restaurant spiked after the recent review, it caused controversy in the foodie world, many commenters claiming that new critic Sam Sifton is far too lenient of a reviewer.

Want to check out more of the New York food scene? Join us on October 3, for a race around some of NYC's favorite restaurants (with samples along the way!). Check out the Taste of New York Race for more details!