20 Best Italian Restaurants NYC

Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, comforting dishes, and time-honored traditions. In the bustling city of New York, Italian restaurants abound, offering a plethora of dining options for those seeking an authentic taste of Italy.

Read on as we explore the top 20 best Italian restaurants in NYC and delve into the strengths that set them apart from the rest.

From traditional trattorias to modern culinary experiences, these establishments showcase the essence of Italian gastronomy and provide memorable dining experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Best Italian Restaurants NYC

Here are important details on the top 20 best Italian restaurants in NYC:

1. I Sodi

I Sodi is a charming Italian restaurant located in the West Village. The restaurant specializes in Tuscan cuisine and offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

One of the strengths of I Sodi is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients sourced both locally and from Italy. The pasta dishes are a standout, particularly the pappardelle with Bolognese sauce.

The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, providing excellent service throughout the dining experience.

The wine list is extensive, featuring a variety of Italian selections that pair well with the dishes. Overall, I Sodi is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and memorable Italian dining experience.

2. Lilia

Lilia, situated in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a popular Italian restaurant known for its modern and stylish ambiance. The restaurant’s strengths lie in its innovative approach to Italian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with contemporary twists.

The handmade pasta is exceptional, and the cacio e pepe is a standout dish. Wood-fired seafood and vegetable dishes are also highly recommended.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Lilia’s elegant and inviting decor, along with its delicious food, make it a top choice for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

3. L&B Spumoni Gardens

L&B Spumoni Gardens is a legendary Italian restaurant located in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. The restaurant’s strength lies in its iconic square-shaped Sicilian pizza, which is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

The sauce and cheese perfectly complement the thick crust, creating a delightful flavor. Additionally, the spumoni dessert is a must-try, featuring layers of different flavored ice creams and candied fruits.

L&B Spumoni Gardens offers a casual and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a relaxed Italian dining experience.

4. Brancaccio’s Food Shop

Brancaccio’s Food Shop, located in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, is a hidden gem known for its authentic Italian sandwiches and delicacies. The strength of this small eatery lies in its commitment to using fresh and high-quality ingredients.

The sandwiches, such as the prosciutto and mozzarella, are made to perfection, with flavors that transport you to Italy. Brancaccio’s also offers a variety of Italian pastries and desserts, which are all delicious.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to the overall positive dining experience. If you’re looking for a quick bite of authentic Italian flavors, Brancaccio’s Food Shop is a great choice.

5. Via Carota

Via Carota, situated in the West Village, is a rustic Italian restaurant known for its traditional and straightforward approach to Italian cuisine. The strength of this restaurant lies in its dedication to simplicity and quality.

The menu features classic dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. The pasta dishes, such as the spaghetti al pomodoro, are cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.

The cozy and charming atmosphere, along with the warm and friendly service, add to the overall appeal of Via Carota. If you appreciate traditional Italian flavors in an unpretentious setting, Via Carota is a fantastic option.

6. Misi

Misi, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a modern Italian restaurant with a focus on handmade pasta and vegetable-forward dishes. The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, resulting in vibrant and flavorful dishes.

The pasta options are diverse, with unique combinations like fettuccine with buffalo butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The vegetable dishes are equally impressive, with highlights like charred broccoli and marinated olives.

Misi offers a contemporary and stylish setting, making it an excellent choice for a memorable Italian dining experience.

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7. Marea

Marea, situated in Midtown Manhattan, is a high-end Italian seafood restaurant renowned for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional cuisine. The strength of Marea lies in its impeccable seafood selection and the skillful execution of each dish.

The crudo and raw bar offerings are particularly outstanding, showcasing the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The pasta dishes are also noteworthy, with options like lobster and burrata ravioli.

The attentive and professional staff ensures a refined dining experience. Marea is an ideal choice for seafood lovers looking for an upscale Italian dining experience.

8. Ci Siamo

Ci Siamo, located in the East Village, is a charming Italian restaurant known for its authentic Roman cuisine. The restaurant’s strength lies in its dedication to traditional Roman flavors and dishes.

The supplì al telefono, a deep-fried rice ball with mozzarella, is a must-try appetizer. The pasta dishes, such as the cacio e pepe, are prepared with precision and showcase the simplicity of Roman cooking.

The cozy and intimate setting, along with the friendly and welcoming staff, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ci Siamo is a hidden gem for those seeking genuine Roman flavors in the heart of New York City.

9. Don Angie

Don Angie, situated in the West Village, is a contemporary Italian restaurant known for its inventive and visually stunning dishes. The strength of Don Angie lies in its creative approach to Italian cuisine, pushing boundaries while still maintaining traditional flavors.

The famous lasagna for two is a standout dish, consisting of delicate layers of pasta, ragu, and béchamel sauce. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, guiding guests through the menu with expertise.

The modern and stylish decor adds to the overall dining experience. Don Angie is a great choice for those looking to explore Italian cuisine with a modern twist.

10. Rezdôra

Rezdôra, located in the Flatiron District, is a renowned Italian restaurant that focuses on the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna. The strength of Rezdôra lies in its commitment to authenticity, using traditional techniques and ingredients to create memorable dishes.

The handmade pasta is exceptional, with options like tortellini en brodo and tagliatelle bolognese. The staff is friendly, passionate, and eager to share their knowledge about the dishes and the region’s culinary heritage.

The warm and inviting atmosphere makes Rezdôra a perfect choice for a cozy Italian dining experience in New York City.

11. Il Buco

Il Buco is an exceptional Italian restaurant located in NYC. The restaurant offers a warm and rustic ambiance with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine. Their strength lies in their use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create authentic and flavorful dishes.

The menu features a wide range of Italian classics, including homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood. The restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to preserving the essence of Italian cuisine is evident in every dish.

Additionally, Il Buco offers an extensive wine list, showcasing Italian wines that perfectly complement the food. Overall, Il Buco is a must-visit for anyone seeking an elevated Italian dining experience.

12. L’Artusi

L’Artusi is a trendy Italian restaurant known for its modern and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant’s strength lies in its contemporary approach to Italian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques.

The menu offers a variety of small plates and entrees, showcasing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. L’Artusi is particularly renowned for its homemade pasta dishes, which are cooked to perfection.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine selection, featuring both local and international labels. The attentive and knowledgeable staff contribute to the overall exceptional dining experience at L’Artusi.

13. Nonna Dora’s Pasta Bar

Nonna Dora’s Pasta Bar is a charming and cozy Italian restaurant in NYC. The restaurant’s strength lies in its focus on traditional, homemade pasta dishes inspired by the owner’s grandmother’s recipes.

Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavorful and authentic Italian flavors. The menu offers a variety of pasta options, including classics like spaghetti and meatballs, as well as unique creations.

The ambiance at Nonna Dora’s Pasta Bar is warm and inviting, making it a great place for a casual and comforting Italian meal.

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14. Noodle Pudding

Noodle Pudding is a hidden gem Italian restaurant located in NYC. The restaurant’s strength lies in its dedication to serving delicious and hearty Italian-American dishes.

With a cozy and intimate setting, Noodle Pudding offers a menu filled with comforting favorites like lasagna, eggplant parmesan, and chicken piccata.

The food is prepared with fresh ingredients and generous portions, satisfying even the most discerning appetites. The friendly and welcoming staff contribute to the overall positive dining experience at Noodle Pudding.

15. LaRina Pastificio & Vino

LaRina Pastificio & Vino is a vibrant Italian restaurant that combines a pasta bar with a wine bar. Their strength lies in their focus on fresh, handmade pasta made daily in-house. The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes, showcasing different shapes, sauces, and flavors.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in the taste and texture of the pasta, which is cooked to perfection.

Alongside the pasta, LaRina Pastificio & Vino offers an extensive wine list featuring Italian varietals, providing excellent pairing options. The modern and lively atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.

16. Michael’s of Brooklyn

Michael’s of Brooklyn is a longstanding Italian restaurant that has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for decades. Their strength lies in their commitment to tradition and family recipes, resulting in flavorful and timeless dishes.

The menu features classic Italian favorites such as pasta, risotto, veal, and seafood. The portions are generous, and the service is attentive, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

The cozy and welcoming ambiance at Michael’s of Brooklyn makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.

17. Maialino (vicino)

Maialino (vicino) is an Italian restaurant known for its elevated Roman-inspired cuisine. Their strength lies in their dedication to sourcing high-quality ingredients and showcasing the flavors of the Lazio region of Italy.

The menu features a variety of dishes, including house-cured meats, homemade pasta, and roasted meats. The attention to detail in each dish is impressive, and the flavors are rich and well-balanced.

The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.

18. SoleLuna

SoleLuna is a cozy Italian restaurant with a focus on Neapolitan cuisine. Their strength lies in their authentic wood-fired pizzas, which are cooked to perfection.

The restaurant uses traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients to create flavorful and delicious pizzas. The menu also features other Italian classics such as pasta dishes and seafood options.

The warm and inviting ambiance at SoleLuna, coupled with its friendly service, makes it a great spot for a casual Italian meal.

19. Max’s Es-Ca

Max’s Es-Ca is a classic Italian restaurant with a reputation for serving exceptional seafood dishes. Their strength lies in their expertise in preparing fresh and flavorful seafood sourced from both local and international waters.

The menu offers a variety of seafood options, including clams, oysters, shrimp, and lobster, cooked to perfection. The restaurant also features a selection of homemade pasta dishes and other Italian specialties.

Max’s Es-Ca provides a refined and elegant dining experience, with attentive service and a sophisticated atmosphere.

20. Zero Otto Nove

Zero Otto Nove is a vibrant and lively Italian restaurant that specializes in authentic Neapolitan cuisine. Their strength lies in their use of traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying dishes.

The menu features an array of Neapolitan classics, including wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and savory meat dishes. The restaurant’s welcoming and energetic atmosphere, along with its attentive service, contribute to a memorable dining experience.

Summary

Overall, these restaurants consistently deliver exceptional culinary experiences. So, whether you’re in the mood for homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or seafood delicacies.

These top Italian restaurants in NYC are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the heart of Italy with their delectable flavors and warm hospitality.