La Devozione: The Oval in Chelsea is the pasta sanctuary you’ve been dreaming about without even knowing it. Tucked inside Chelsea Market, this Italian pasta temple created by the Gentile family (yes, the same folks behind the renowned Gragnano pasta brand) offers a unique dining experience that revolves entirely around their exceptionally crafted pasta.

The Oval’s counter-style seating arrangement puts you front and center to watch the pasta masters at work, turning the meal into dinner and a show. Each dish highlights a different pasta shape, with preparations that specifically complement the texture and characteristics of that particular format. The carbonara with homemade tonnarelli might convert even the most hardcore carbonara purists, while their seasonal stuffed pastas demonstrate why proper pasta-making is truly an art form.

What makes The Oval special is how they’ve elevated pasta without making it pretentious. The ingredients are impeccable, the technique is flawless, but the experience remains approachable and deeply satisfying. The pasta flight option is particularly brilliant if you’re feeling indecisive – letting you sample multiple styles in one sitting.

While Chelsea Market can feel touristy, The Oval manages to be a genuine destination worthy of both special occasions and spontaneous pasta cravings. Just be prepared to think differently about boxed pasta afterward.