Brian Nagele
Also known as “The Big Apple,” New York City stands as the most populous city in the United States.
Due to its sheer size, there are plenty of things to do and see, no matter which neighborhood or borough you’re in.
If you’re spending extra time in the city, don’t miss out on a trip to Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Broadway Theater District.
Since the city brings in visitors worldwide, you can expect a wide selection of restaurants serving international foods that pique your interest.
I guarantee you can find several Italian restaurants offering the best pasta and New York-style pizza to fill your stomach after a long day of taking in the city’s sights.
Don’t have time to scour out every eatery in the city? Then, consider browsing through this list I compiled about the best Italian restaurants in NYC to help you narrow down your search and enjoy the city’s best flavors.
Frankies (457) Spuntino
457 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone: 718-403-0033
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The first destination on my list of the best Italian restaurants in NYC you should stop by if you’re in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens neighborhood is Frankies (457) Spuntino, located on Court Street.
This lively eatery is a great place to unwind after exploring the local parks. Besides their elegant interior dining room, they also offer outdoor seating in their garden area.
I recommend ordering their Sweet Potato & Sage Ravioli, Chicken Parmesan, Eggplant Marinara Sandwich, or Calamari Luigi to pair with the champagne on their extensive wine list. If you have room for dessert, you can’t go wrong with their tiramisu or chocolate tart.
Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria
53 Great Jones St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-837-2622
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The next dining option I recommend for you during your search for the best Italian restaurants in NYC is Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria, nestled on Great Jones Street, near The Bowery Hotel.
This casual eatery offers a warm atmosphere, quality home-cured meats, and the best Mediterranean-Italian fare in the NoHo neighborhood.
Consider ordering their Seared Alaskan King Salmon, Cavatelli, Green Zebra Pizza, or Cast Iron Wild Rice with a side of roasted beets or cauliflower.
Don’t forget to complete your dinner with their signature Tom Yum, Contratto Spritz, or Alimentari Negroni cocktails and fresh, house-made bread. They also offer brunch options.
Lilia
567 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-576-3095
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Located in a former auto-body shop on Union Avenue, within walking distance from McCarren Park, Lilia is another place I recommend for satisfying your cravings for quality Italian fare.
It has a cozy and modern look that you can immerse yourself in as you enjoy wood-fired entrees and house-made pasta.
In my opinion, Lilia serves the best Black Bass, Pappardelle, Rigatoni Diavola, and Grilled Lamb Leg Steak on this side of Williamsburg.
You can also stop by their cafe for breakfast or lunch and try their refreshing Bianco Bianco or Aperol Spritz cocktails. That way, you can create a perfect flavor profile for enjoying your meal.
Bamonte’s
32 Withers St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-384-8831
Do you prefer eating at restaurants with a retro vibe? Then, consider visiting Bamonte’s on Withers Street in Williamsburg for authentic Italian fare.
Although they don’t ask for reservations, you can still relax in this vintage setting, easily spotted on the streets because of its colorful exterior. What better place to stop for lunch after a day at the park?
Bamonte’s offers a wide selection of old-world Italian fare for seafood, pasta, and meat-lovers alike.
After starting with their Fried Zucchini or Shrimp Cocktail, you should consider ordering their Steak Pizzaiola, Broiled Shrimp Scampi, Ziti with Broccoli, or Spaghetti with Meatballs.
al di la Trattoria
248 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Phone: 718-783-4565
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If you’re in the mood for authentic Northern Italian dishes, al di la Trattoria is your best option because of its vintage and intimate ambiance.
It’s found on 5th Avenue, nestled in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood. Besides their brightly decorated dining rooms, you can also enjoy their dishes on their outdoor patio.
I’m a big fan of their Ricotta Ravioli, Saltimbocca Alla Romana, Galletto Alla Diavola, and Paccheri. Be sure to add a side of Baby Carrots or Crushed Yukon Gold Potatoes to any dish.
Don’t know what to get for dessert? Then, consider trying their Blueberry Compote, Pear and Chocolate Cake, or Homemade Gelato.
I Sodi
105 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 646-675-8672
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You can find I Sodi on Christopher Street in Greenwich Village. This Italian restaurant serves Tuscan-style dishes in a compact yet intimate setting.
I consider it a great place for booking a special dinner date with someone close to you. They also offer pickup and delivery services if you don’t have time to stay.
I really like their Paccheri Strascicate, Ravioli Burro E Salvia, Coniglio In Porchetta, and Brasato Con Piselli.
Don’t forget to add a side of braised peas or fried potatoes for a new flavor balance. They also have a wide selection of dinner and dessert wines to help you top off your night in style.
Via Carota
51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-255-1962
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Located on Grove Street, within walking distance from the Christopher Street Subway Station, Via Carota is another one of the top Italian restaurants in NYC.
You can enjoy quality dishes in a cozy setting with a rustic vibe, making it a charming place for dinner. Chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams craft acclaimed dishes inspired by traditional recipes from Florence.
In my opinion, their best dishes are Polpette, Pollo Alla Griglia, Baccalà Mantecato, and Via Carota Svizzerina.
They also offer a wide selection of wines and spirits, but I recommend trying their Negroni Rosa, Bicicletta, Martini Italiano, or Old Fashioned cocktail to give your entree an extra flavor kick.
Don Angie
103 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-889-8884
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Don Angie is a contemporary Italian-American restaurant located on Greenwich Avenue, a short walk from Jackson Square.
You can’t miss its white marble exterior. Chef Angie Rito prepares traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist for anyone interested in trying new takes on classic favorites. That way, you can make any visit to the East Village neighborhood worthwhile.
During my last visit to Don Angie, I started with their BBQ Calamari and ordered their Grilled Pork Shoulder with Japanese Sweet Potatoes on the side.
However, I recommend not missing out on their Garganelli Giganti. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their Fior Di Latte Mochi for dessert.
Rubirosa
235 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-965-0500
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Just a short distance from the Museum of Ice Cream in the Nolita neighborhood stands Rubirosa, a hip and popular Italian restaurant nestled on Mulberry Street.
They’re open all week, so you can arrange your schedule for enjoying pizza and other specials in a destination with dark, atmospheric lighting and wooden decor.
Consider sampling their Meatball Parmigiana Hero, Bianca Pizza, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, or Rubirosa Carbonara.
Be sure to pair any of these dishes with their house wines. They also have a gluten-free menu if you have specific dietary preferences. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their mint tea and house-made cannoli.
Marea
240 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-582-5100
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Located on Central Park South, near Columbus Square, Marea is your top destination for enjoying high-end cuisine with a scenic view of the park in a modern and chic setting.
I love stopping by here on the weekends whenever I’m in the mood for an authentic fine dining experience.
Indulge in Executive Chef Molly Nickerson’s menu by sampling their Langoustine, Tagliata, Fusilli, or Sogliola.
Feel free to add a side of confit potatoes or arugula to give your meal something extra. My favorite cocktails they serve are Spiced Lad, Sleepy Hollow, and Colomba Rosa, but I also recommend trying their Elderflower Fizz.
Carbone
181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
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After spending a few hours at Washington Square Park, I recommend going to dinner at Carbone on Thompson Street.
It has a retro-glam aesthetic that left a pretty large impression on me after my first visit. You can count on their culinary team to create enticing dishes for any regular dinner night or private party.
Carbone prepares its steak and chops options on a charcoal grill for an authentic smoked flavor that blends in with their drinks and sides.
After ordering their wine by the glass or classic martini, you should consider ordering their Lobster Ravioli, Salmon Oreganata, Veal Marsala, or Cherry Pepper Ribs.
Lucali
575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone: 718-858-4086
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Are you having trouble finding a quality pizzeria in Brooklyn? Then, look no further than Lucali on Henry Street.
This popular pizza spot has a casual and rustic vibe for enjoying brick-oven, thin-crust pizzas. Best of all, you can bring your own bottles of wine and beer, making it a great option for hanging out with friends after a busy week.
During my last few visits to Lucali, I enjoyed their calzones and customizable pies. If you decide on trying their large pie, be sure to order it with pepperoni, onions, or sweet peppers.
Ideally, you should stop by before 5PM to spend less time waiting for your seat and delicious fare.
Pasquale Jones
187 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012
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You can find Pasquale Jones on the corner of Mulberry Street and Kenmare Street. I consider this one of the best Italian restaurants in NYC because of its casual ambiance, open kitchen dining area, and sidewalk seating for enjoying the sights and sounds of the lively city, especially after browsing through the nearby clothing and jewelry stores.
Whenever I stopped by for dinner during my trip to the city, I ordered their Spaghetti al Limone, Diavola Pizza, Wood-Fired Pork Shank, or Margherita Pizza. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their Fior di Latte Gelato if you have room for dessert.
Rezdôra
27 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003
Phone: 646-692-9090
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One of the best Italian restaurants in NYC to find house-made pasta with Northern Italian wines is Rezdôra, located on East 20th Street, minutes from Madison Square Park and the National Museum of Mathematics.
You can also enjoy this intimate restaurant’s dishes on their covered, heated outdoor patio year-round.
Rezdôra has a wide selection of Italian dishes available on their lunch, brunch, and dinner menus.
I enjoyed their Strozzapreti, Capesante Mantovana, Anolini Di Parma, and Bistecca Per Due.
Be sure to ask about their classic and specialty cocktails to enhance your meal’s flavors. In my opinion, their best ones are Late Bloomer, Amaro Spritz, and Manhattan After Dark.
Bar Pitti
268 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-982-3300
Are you having trouble finding somewhere to eat before watching a movie at the Film Forum theater? If so, consider stopping by Bar Pitti, overlooking 6th Avenue.
This small restaurant has a casual vibe, perfect for enjoying hearty Italian fare. If you prefer getting fresh city air on a warm and clear afternoon, they also have sidewalk seating.
I recommend starting with their Caprese or Fettunta and trying their Penne All Arrabbiata, Toscano Panini, Pappardelle Alla Fiesolana, or Precamondo Panini if you’re in the mood for something filling. Their Chocolate Mousse and Panna Cotta are to die for if you crave a sweet treat afterward.
Beppe Trattoria
234 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-586-2403
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Found near the Museum of Arts and Design and Carnegie Hall, Beppe Trattoria is another Italian restaurant that’s an excellent option for anyone craving dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
It’s on West 56th Street, north of the Diamond District. Its lively yet refined atmosphere is something I look forward to at the end of the week.
Don’t miss out on their Pappardelle Al Cinghiale, Gemelli Pasta, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, or Pollo Al Mattone.
They also offer a three-course Prix-Fixe menu for guests interested in dining before or after a theater performance. If you prefer a light dessert, try their cannoli or s’mores.
Maestro Pizza
45 John St, New York, NY 10038
Phone: 617-987-7732
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Maestro Pizza is a small, casual over-the-counter Italian restaurant located on John Street, near the heart of the Financial District.
Despite its narrow size, it offers as many organic and delicious pasta dishes for everyone to enjoy.
Their culinary experts do this by making it from scratch and using the best tools for molding its shape.
You can choose between a regular or half a portion of long or short pasta and choose your favorite sauces and toppings.
I prefer ordering a regular portion of spaghetti or linguine with Alfredo sauce and meatballs. Their pasta is vegetarian and vegan-friendly. They also offer lasagna dishes.
Lucciola
621 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Phone: 347-536-1335
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If you find yourself spending most of your day in the Upper West Side, consider booking a dinner reservation at Lucciola, nestled on the corner of Amsterdam Avenue and Henry J Browne Boulevard.
Its nostalgic, romantic, upscale setting is the perfect backdrop if you’re interested in an innovative fine dining experience near Central Park.
During my last few visits to NYC, I tried Lucciola’s Lobster Tagliatelle, Lamb Chops, Handmade Cheese Tortellini, and Wagyu Filet Mignon.
Don’t forget to enhance your fine dining experience with a French 90th or Espresso Martini Gold cocktail. If you’re dining with friends, consider trying their Italian wine flights.
L’Artusi
228 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-255-5757
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Located on West 10th Street, L’Artusi is your best option for smaller Italian plates near the West Village and Greenwich Village neighborhoods.
This two-level restaurant has a refined aesthetic, a traditional bar, a chef’s counter, and a cheese bar.
They also have an extensive wine list to pair with any dishes prepared by Executive Chef Joe Vigorito.
In my opinion, they serve the best Swordfish, Bucatini, Garganelli, and Venison Occo Bucco near the Hudson River.
I prefer ordering them with a side of Delicata Squash or Crispy Potatoes and finishing my night with house-made sorbet or an apple pie sundae. They also offer brunch on the weekends.
Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana
196 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 646-478-7488
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Don’t know where to find Italian food in the SoHo neighborhood? Then, consider stopping by Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana on Spring Street.
Unlike other restaurants scattered across the SoHo and Hudson Square neighborhoods, this minimalist and cozy eatery serves quality pasta and Italian entrees with Sicilian influence.
Their Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli, Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe, Tagliatelle Verdi con Ragù di Cinghiale, and Bucatini Alle Sardine are to die for if you’re interested in something new.
Be sure to ask your server about their top red, white, sparkling, and dessert wine options to pair with their tastiest dishes to make an unforgettable dinner night.
Tony’s Di Napoli
Multiple locations
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With locations in the Upper East Side on 3rd Avenue and Times Square on West 43rd Street, Tony’s Di Napoli is one of the best family-friendly Italian restaurants in NYC if you’re in the mood for dining in a lively setting and indulging in large, shareable portions. They also offer takeout and delivery services if you and your family are short on time.
My favorite dishes are Eggplant Parmigiana, Penne Primavera, Shrimp Marinara, and Broiled Salmon Filet.
Be sure to start with their stuffed mushrooms or baked clams for a flavorful night and browse through their extensive wine list for a red, white, or sparkling wine to your liking.
Carmine’s Italian Restaurant – Times Square
200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-221-3800
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Across the street from Minskoff Theatre stands Carmine’s Italian Restaurant – Times Square, nestled on West 44th Street.
This bustling restaurant serves heaping servings of Southern Italian fare for the entire family to enjoy.
Additionally, their banquet rooms are ideal for private parties before exploring the rest of Times Square’s stores and watching its shows.
I always start with their Garlic Bread or Fried Zucchini before ordering their Veal Parmigiana, Broiled Lobster Oreganata, Lasagna, or Porterhouse Pizzaiola with a side of sautéed broccoli.
Best of all, many of their menu options are gluten-free and vegetarian. Afterward, don’t forget to treat yourself to their chocolate cannoli or strawberry shortcake.
Ai Fiori
400 5th Ave #2, New York, NY 10018
Phone: 212-613-8660
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Are you looking for an NYC Italian restaurant offering stylish digs and refined cuisine? If so, Ai Fiori in The Langham Hotel might be the best option for you if you’re walking through 5th Avenue.
You can find a few blocks from The Morgan Library & Museum. This elegant restaurant serves the finest French and Italian Riviera cuisine near Koreatown.
You can choose between Ai Fiori’s Four-Course Prix-Fixe or Chef’s Tasting Menu. During my last visit to this restaurant, I had their Vellutata, Risotto, Pan-Seared Scallops, and Dark Chocolate Cake.
You should consider trying their Northern Italy white wine or Rosso Rubino cocktail to bring out each dish’s flavors.
Malatesta Trattoria
649 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-741-1207
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Standing east of the piers near the Hudson River and across from New Ohio Theatre is Malatesta Trattoria, located on Washington Street.
This casual restaurant offers seasonal dishes West Village locals and visitors love. Its simple decor emphasizes its informal yet welcome ambiance.
Malatesta Trattoria offers a sizable selection of pasta and meat dishes to make your taste buds tingle.
Consider ordering their Gnocchi di Patate, Tagliata de Casale, Ravioli al Formaggio, or Spaghetti Alla Chitarra as your main entree after starting with their Bruschetta.
If you crave something sweet to balance out your saucy or spicy dinner, try their chocolate mousse.
Patsy’s Italian Restaurant
236 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: 212-247-3491
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Last but not least on this list of the top Italian restaurants in NYC is Patsy’s Italian Restaurant, nestled on West 56th Street, deep within Manhattan’s Midtown neighborhood.
This eatery has a vintage vibe and serves Neapolitan dishes prepared with 100% natural tomato sauce. I love coming here for something to eat before catching a performance at Gershwin Theatre.
The best dishes on their seasonal menu are their Manicotti, Linguine Puttanesca, Stuffed Calamari, and Veal Francese.
They also offer enticing Pre-Theater and Pre-Fixe Luncheon menus if you want to stop for a bite earlier before going to a live performance.
No trip to New York City is complete until you eat some of the best food they offer, which you can find around any corner.
Hopefully, this list can help you narrow down the best Italian restaurants in NYC so you can plan your day out accordingly.
Not interested in Italian food at the moment? Check out this list of the best Greek restaurants in New York City if you want to try new international dishes.
Did I leave any places off my list? Leave a comment below about your favorite places and dishes so I can check them out!
It helped me when you said that the greatest Mediterranean-Italian food in the NoHo area is served at this relaxed restaurant, which also has a cozy ambiance and top-notch home-cured meats. My boyfriend and I are looking forward to a Local Dine-In Italian Restaurant for our date night this Sunday evening. I’ll keep in mind every restaurant that you recommended in this article, thanks!