Ai Fiori is a very modern and creative Italian restaurant located on 5th avenue between 36th and 37th. The decor is very modern and elegant - nothing unique. The service was excellent, the waiter was engaging and knowledgable. He knew the menu well and provided reliable recommendations.
Honestly, I wasn't entirely blown away by the food. But you'll never have a bad experience here, the food will almost always be consistent and good, but maybe not all that exciting. I guess that depends on what you're looking for and you're current mood. However, the Trofie Nero - squid ink pasta - did catch the attention of my taste buds. It was really delicious, the crunchy flakes accentuated the flavors of the squid and each bite. I'd definitely return for that. It's very different from the squid ink pasta at Osteria Morini because you can't taste the "seafoodness", you can't really tell that it's a seafood dish. The Crudo Di Passera - fluke crudo with caviar - was also very well prepared. The olive oil that they used went really well with the bland fluke by bringing out its hidden flavors.
Overall, the food was solid and good, nothing was bad. Aside from my much raved about squid ink pasta, the desserts that I tried were not to shabby either. The torta di olio, which is an olive oil cake with mousse, pistachio, and strawberry sorbetta. It was light and refreshing. Not too sweet. You'll notice any dessert I like isn't too sweet.
The ambiance was a bit too cold for my taste and no particular dish stood aside from the one mentioned above. However, this restaurant has received much rave and taste buds can be very personal. It's definitely worth a try and a great special occasion spot. It's not a go to spot but a place worth going once in a while as they are a little experimental and change their menu from time to time.
Price
I did not order the tasting menu but I would expect to pay about $70-100 per person including tax/tip. I would recommend the fixed menu if you are going to order an appetizer and dessert in addition to a main course.
Reservation
It is not difficult to get a reservation here, honestly I don't think you even need one. You could probably make a reservation the day of.