Brian Nagele
Known as “The Forgotten Borough,” Staten Island is New York City’s least populated borough. However, you can do many things while exploring this area of the city.
Besides its museums and historical buildings, such as Snug Harbor and The Seguine Mansion, Staten Island is also home to several parks with hiking trails and wetlands.
Despite being secluded from the other parts of New York City, the Borough of Parks also offers many dining options for curious and motivated visitors. From American favorites to Italian or Mediterranean delicacies, you’re bound to find an excellent place for enjoying meals at any time of the day.
With so many restaurants to explore, you might be wondering: which restaurants are worth checking out? That’s where I come in.
I’ve compiled an extensive list of the best restaurants on Staten Island you should visit during your trip. Of course, no two restaurants are the same, so you can try any on this list for a variety of takes on many different dishes.
Giuliana’s Ristorante
4105 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10308
Phone: 718-317-8507
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The first option I recommend on this list of the best restaurants on Staten Island is Giuliana’s Ristorante, located on the corner of Hylan Boulevard and Osborn Avenue. This upscale eatery specializes in Italian dishes and high-quality wines. Its outdoor patio makes an ideal backdrop for people interested in dining while taking in the city’s sights.
I recommend starting with their grilled octopus, carpaccio, or Caprese and ordering their vodka pizza, grilled seasoned salmon, lobster ravioli, or filet mignon. Another special you should sample if you come for Sunday dinner is their rigatoni with meatballs, sausage, and pigskin.
Guiliana’s also offers catering and party menus for their private dining room rentals.
Fiore Di Mare
227 Mansion Ave, Staten Island, NY 10308
Phone: 718-227-9771
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Next up is Fiore De Mare, nestled on Mansion Avenue, a short distance away from Lighthouse Park. This cozy Italian restaurant has a warm atmosphere perfect for dining at any time of the week. They also have an outdoor dining space with a beautiful view of Great Kills Harbor. Additionally, you can book private events and select several dining package options.
My favorite menu items are their Linguini Nero, Salmon & Israeli Couscous, Veal Milanese, and Chicken Panini. Try their Beet & Goat Cheese Napoleon, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, or Beef Carpaccio appetizers if you want a little extra before your meal.
Don’t forget to ask for their wine menu!
Fig & Vine
710 New Dorp Ln, Staten Island, NY 10306
Phone: 917-830-0230
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Located on New Dorp Lane, across from Miller Field, Fig & Vine is another Italian restaurant I recommend while visiting during your trip to Staten Island. This lively and sophisticated establishment serves quality pasta, flatbreads, and steakhouse favorites. They also host private events with seasonal menus.
You absolutely have to try a sampling of their fig flatbread, Chicken Valdostana, 35-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye, or Chilean Sea Bass. In addition, they offer a children’s menu for your kids every day they’re open and a tasting menu from 4 PM to 7 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays and from 4 PM to closing on Fridays.
You should also consider booking a reservation for their weekend brunch from 10 AM to 2 PM for a great mid-day treat.
Luce
Multiple locations
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Located throughout the borough, including in South Shore Commons on Veterans Road West, Luce is another excellent option for Italian cuisine. This trendy and sleek restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, so it would be best to dress your best while visiting. They also offer menus for private events, bridal shower buffets, and off-premise catering.
You can’t go wrong with their Alaskan Salmon Dijon, Porterhouse for Two, Linguine al Pomodoro, or Bucatini Amatriciana with a side of truffle fries, broccoli rabe, or long hots.
Order their assorted Italian cookies, chocolate-dipped fruits, or fresh fruit display for dessert if you want to plan a private event.
Cielo
1435 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305
Phone: 718-668-2211
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Are you having trouble finding a restaurant with a warm and relaxing atmosphere? If so, consider coming to Cielo, located on Hylan Boulevard, in the Dongan Hills neighborhood. The restaurant has a polished interior perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Their quality Central Italian and Mediterranean food has bold flavors, especially when paired with their wines.
I recommend their Penne alla Norma, Pirata Livornose, Pollo Paesano, or Abbacchio alla Romana with fries or sauteéd spinach.
You should also try their lunch special from noon to 3 PM offered on Monday through Saturday with a cheesecake or tiramisu dessert and complimentary tea or coffee.
Villa Paradiso Ristorante Italiano
145 Greaves Ln, Staten Island, NY 10308
Phone: 718-227-2405
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Located on Greaves Lane, near Siedenburg Park, Villa Paradiso Ristorante Italiano is another one of the best restaurants in Staten Island for an old-school fine dining experience. They also have live entertainment, so booking a reservation during one of their performing nights would be your best option for immersing yourself during your night out.
In my opinion, their best dinner entrees are Gnocchi Sorrentina, ribeye steak, Veal Scaloppine, and Spaghetti Vongole. If you stop by during Easter, they offer an exquisite lamb entree and cheesecake dessert.
They also provide a Sunday Special and catering services menu for people planning large private gatherings.
Cucina Fresca
2110 Richmond Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306
Phone: 718-667-5151
Located off the corner of Richmond Road and Lincoln Avenue, Cucina Fresca is an Italian restaurant offering excellent Staten Island dining options. It has a stylish yet upscale atmosphere ideal for anybody looking for the best place to enjoy great Italian dishes. From pasta to chicken, this place offers something for everyone.
I recommend their baked stuffed shells, Tortellini Alfredo, Baked Lemon Tilapia, or Eggplant Rollatini. You should also start with their buffalo chicken wings, fried zucchini sticks, or stuffed mushroom caps.
Don’t forget to ask your server about their recommended drink and dessert options to enhance your dining experience.
Enoteca Maria
27 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301
Phone: 718-447-2777
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Don’t know where to eat in Staten Island if you’re in the mood for homemade cuisine? If so, consider heading to Enoteca Maria, located on Hyatt Street.
Unlike many Italian restaurants, this eatery has a team of nonnas from around the world creating delectable dishes. In addition, they typically serve a rotating menu every night to add variety to an avid food lover’s experience.
Their organic Lasagna Della Nonna, Ravioli Della Casa, Branzino al Cartoccio, or Capuzzelle are all fantastic dishes, and each tastes great with a glass of Brachetto. If you have room for dessert, try their Gluten-Free Gateau au Chocolat or Green Tea Matcha Cheesecake.
Nino’s Restaurant
1110 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305
Phone: 718-448-3838
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Located on the corner of Lamport Boulevard and Hylan Boulevard, Nino’s Restaurant is a great place to stop for fine dining if you’re walking through Staten Island’s Concord neighborhood.
This formal restaurant specializes in serving top-quality Italian cuisine for any occasion. With a lavish dining room and outdoor patio, you’re bound to make your trip to Staten island worthwhile.
I recommend trying their Homemade Ravioli, Shrimp Parmigiana, Gamberoni Scampi, or Vitello Picanta with a side of roasted potatoes or sautéed escarole. They also have an extensive selection of international, Californian, and Italian red and white wines. They also offer dessert pies during Thanksgiving.
Pier 76
76 Bay St #2511, Staten Island, NY 10301
Phone: 718-447-7437
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Overlooking Bay Street, a short drive away from the National Lighthouse Museum, Pier 76 is another restaurant offering great Italian food. It has a warm and intimate vibe, complete with a private lounge and outdoor patio ideal for enjoying lunch, brunch, or dinner as you explore the area.
In my opinion, their best dishes are their Loaded Guacamole Burger, Fiocchi & Pear Pasta, Shrimp and Calamari Risotto, and Grilled Black Angus Steak Wrap. I also recommend their special Winter Kale Pizza.
Their best cocktails are Royal Martini and Apple Jack. Finish your night in style with their Zeppole or Tartufo for dessert.
Da Noi
Multiple locations
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With locations on Victory Boulevard and Fingerboard Road, Da Noi is another one of the best restaurants in Staten Island that offers Italian food in an intimate and refined dining setting. This family-owned restaurant also has several private dining rooms for any celebration, from business dinners to family gatherings.
I recommend their Linguine Frutti di Mare, Filet Sole Fiorentina, Chicken Scarpariello, or Veal Martini. Personally, I like starting with their Crespelle Fiorentina or Gamberi Grigliati.
Don’t forget to stop by their bar and ask their server about their in-house wine recommendations. Finish off your meal with some tiramisu, ricotta cheesecake, or cannolis for dessert.
Patrizia’s Of Staten Island
4255 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10308
Phone: 718-317-6600
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Located on Amboy Road, Patrizia’s Of Staten Island has a roomy and decorative ambiance for enjoying Italian food. They also offer private event services and catering for guests interested in hosting parties in Staten Island’s Great Kills area. So, whether you’re dining alone or with your family, this restaurant has incredible options for everyone.
You have to start with their grilled baby octopus or buffalo wings. Then, try out their Spaghetti Alla Sinatra, Chicken Cardinale, Salmon Luciano, or Diavola Pizza while you’re at it – they’re all great choices. They also offer a Family-Style menu with unlimited sangria, imported beer, wine, and soda.
If you’re dining out with family, their kid’s menu offers chicken parm and chicken fingers with fries.
Taverna on the Bay
661 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10304
Phone: 718-524-5686
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Can’t find a restaurant serving the best Mediterranean cuisine? Taverna on the Bay, located on the corner of Bay Street and Thompson Street, offers quality seafood and drinks in a lively setting, close to Maker Park. It’s the perfect setting for getting a taste of the city’s nightlife by sampling Executive Chef Ridi Zeneli’s finest dishes. Be sure to dress in business casual attire to follow their dress code.
I recommend their Rigatoni Bolognese, Chicken Balsamic, BBQ Chicken Pizza, or Taverna Steak. Try their chocolate mousse, tuna tartare, or chorizo with a glass of white or red wine if you have a large appetite.
Bayou
1072 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10305
Phone: 718-273-4383
Located on Bay Street, minutes away from Buono Beach and the Alice Austen House, Bayou is your go-to destination for Cajun cuisine. It has a festive yet upscale atmosphere for comfortable dining. Additionally, they have a wide selection of drinks and desserts with a New Orleans twist.
I recommend starting with Fried Cajun Sushi or Voodoo Mussels and ordering their Elba Blues pork tenderloin medallions, Steak Louie, Seafood Jambalaya, or Blackened Catfish with a side of brown sugar carrots, dirty rice, or creamed spinach.
Don’t forget to try their Banana Caramel Fried Cheesecake, Homemade Chocolate Mousse, or Banana Chocolate Bread Pudding.
Angelina’s Restaurant
399 Ellis St, Staten Island, NY 10307
Phone: 718-227-2900
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Located on Ellis Street, Angelina’s is another one of the best restaurants in Staten Island that offers upscale Italian dining. This mansion restaurant has a lush outdoor area overlooking the water. They also have private dining rooms on their second and third floors with varying seating capacities per day.
My favorite dishes are Spaghetti al Pomodoro, Pistachio-Crusted Wild Chilean Sea Bass, Grilled Heritage Double Pork Chop, or Pounded Breaded Veal Chop. I recommend adding a side of wild mushrooms or Italian-style mac & cheese.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with their French or Italian champagne, white, red, or cellar selection wines.
Il Sogno
26 Jefferson Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10312
Phone: 718-356-7800
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Overlooking Jefferson Boulevard and Annadale Park, Il Sogno, like other Staten Island restaurants, offers quality Italian food in an elegant setting. Their chef creates classic dishes with a modern twist, so your dining possibilities are practically endless.
In the mood for a party? Then you should know that Il Sogno offers customizable catering services and has private party rooms for events between 30 and 100 guests.
I recommend their market-price whole fish of the day, Pollo Lisa, Veal Chop Capricciosa, or Salmone Alla Mustarda. Be sure to visit on Wednesday to try their Lobster Special. They also have an extensive list of red, white, international, and sparkling wines, so make sure to ask your server about their most popular options.
Dolce Fantasia
1210 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310
Phone: 718-420-1411
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Nestled on the corner of Forest Avenue and Llewellyn Avenue, Dolce Fantasia is an Italian restaurant that prioritizes using the finest ingredients for its dishes. Its casual and stylish setting has sleek patterned flooring and walls.
Dolce Fantasia also won the Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in 2020 and 2021 for its outstanding services and food quality, so you know that your experience will be high-class.
You should definitely sample their Cavatelli Casarecci, Lamb Burger, Pollo Della Fantasia, or Branzillo Alla Griglia. They serve weekend brunch until 2 PM. Indulge in their gluten-free red velvet cake, pistachio cheesecake, or dark chocolate mousse if you want to treat yourself
Piccolino Ristorante NY
3935 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10308
Phone: 718-967-5870
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Next on the list of the best restaurants in Staten Island is Piccolino Ristorante NY, located on Amboy Road. This small, casual restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining. From pasta to seafood, they’re an excellent option for anyone in the mood for Italian food. They also have a front parking lot to pick up food if you prefer taking your meal to-go.
I recommend trying their Garlic Shrimp or Calamari Fritti appetizers and ordering their Salmon Limone, Ravioli Pomodoro, Pollo Alessandro, or Beef Barolo. They also offer a three-course Prix Fixe takeout menu, so don’t miss out on their tiramisu or cannoli dessert when ordering out.
Killmeyer’s
4254 Arthur Kill Rd, Staten Island, NY 10309
Phone: 718-984-1202
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Don’t know where to find a quality Staten Island restaurant serving German fare? If so, Killmeyer’s, located on Arthur Kill Road, is the best option for you.
This rustic yet comfortable restaurant offers a great selection of European and craft beers, a large outdoor garden with a gazebo, and live Oktoberfest entertainment throughout late September and October.
Their potato-cheese pierogies are a treat like no other, and you can have an order of their chicken schnitzel, beef goulash, cranberry pork loin, or three-wurst sampler to go with it! Don’t forget some red cabbage, spaetzle, or sauerkraut on the side for a yummy meal.
During their Sunday brunch from noon to 3 PM or Prime Rib Thursday, you should also stop by to try their latest draught beer options.
Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern
524 Port Richmond Ave, Staten Island, NY 10302
Phone: 718-442-9401
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If you’re in the mood for pizza, consider visiting Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern on Port Richmond Avenue.
Since 1951, this sophisticated restaurant has served quality thin crust pizza to Staten Island residents and tourists. They also use family recipes for their Italian entrees, ensuring the best flavors per bite while you and your friends or family enjoy a nice night out.
I recommend starting with their mozzarella sticks, buffalo wings, or scungilli and ordering their ricotta pizza pie, Eggplant Parmigiana, meatball hero, or Denino’s Margarita Pie. They also offer full or half pitchers of sangria, beer, and soda.
Personally, I enjoy a refreshing glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio with my pizza.
Lakruwana Restaurant
668 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10304
Phone: 347-857-6619
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The last restaurant I want to talk about is Lakruwana Restaurant, located off the corner of Bay Street and Broad Street.
This Sri Lankan restaurant has a vibrant and ornate vibe ideal for people interested in trying something new before going to Tappen Park. Chef Julia Wijesinghe prepares each dish with authentic Sri Lankan spices to emphasize their flavors.
In my opinion, their best dishes are their Shrimp Lamprais, Vegetable Biryani, Hathmaluwa, and Pork Hoppers. Each dish tastes excellent with mango juice, Ceylon tea, or passion juice. If you have room for dessert, you should try their Mango Mousse or Kiri-Pani.
As you can see, Staten Island is full of plenty of excellent restaurants for you to enjoy a great meal. Although finding the best Staten Island restaurants can be overwhelming, hopefully, my list can give you a good idea of where to search first.
Are you in the mood for brunch? Check out this article about the best places for brunch in Staten Island.
Did I leave out a restaurant on this list? Comment below to tell me about your favorites and their best dishes so I can check them out!
