The allure of Italian cuisine is often hard to resist, from its unique flavors and ingredients to the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurants that serve it. New York City is home to some of the world’s best Italian restaurants, each offering its own distinct take on traditional Italian fare. From traditional Roman-style pizza to handcrafted pastas and inventive small plates, here are some of the top best Italian restaurants in New York City.
Casa Mono
Casa Mono is a Michelin-starred restaurant tucked away between two popular bars in the East Village. At Casa Mono, the cuisine is inspired by the Catalan region of Spain and emphasizes seasonal, organic ingredients. The restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes, from handmade pastas like homemade tagliatelle to creative small plates like grilled octopus with squash, almonds, and cauliflower pureé. The wine list features a selection of Spanish and Italian wines, and the chef is always experimenting with new recipes, so there is always something new to try.
Lupa
Lupa is Mario Batali’s original in the Village, known for its rustic Roman cooking. The menu offers a selection of antipasti, pasta, pizza, and main courses that showcase the best of the Italian culinary tradition. Signature dishes include the Bucatini all’amatriciana, clam pizza with garlic and chili, and the roasted pork shoulder with spicy greens. Diners have the option of enjoying the food family-style, or making their own custom tasting menu. A select number of Italian wines are available to complement the meal.
Frankie’s Spuntino
Located in West Village, Frankie’s Spuntino is a relaxing Italian spot with an inviting atmosphere. The menu features traditional Italian-American dishes like veal parmigiana, eggplant rollatini, and homemade manicotti. The restaurant is renowned for its house-made pastas, like the delicate gnocchi with ricotta and fresh herbs, and the freshly made lasagne al forno. The wine list offers a selection of Italian reds and whites that pair perfectly with the food.
Del Posto
Del Posto is a fine-dining Italian restaurant located in Chelsea. This Michelin-starred spot serves contemporary Italian fare with a luxurious twist. Signature dishes include gnudi with wild mushrooms and truffle butter, tortellini with porcini cream sauce, and roasted pork with black truffles and Calabrian chilies. The service is impeccable and the wait staff are knowledgeable about the dishes and wines. The extensive Italian wine list features bottles from all over the country.
Rubirosa
Rubirosa is an Italian restaurant in Nolita that serves a menu of classic Italian-American dishes. The menu features a variety of pizza, pastas, and sandwiches, all cooked in the classic New York style. The signature dish is the Vodka Pie—Grana Padano-infused pizza dough, vodka tomato sauce, and mozzarella—which is the restaurant’s most popular dish. The restaurant’s pasta selection includes classic dishes like spaghetti with meatballs, and cavatelli with pistachio pesto. The wine list is focused on Italian bottles, with a mix of both old and new world wines.
Scopa
Scopa is a cozy Italian spot in the heart of the East Village. The menu focuses on traditional southern Italian dishes like house-made pasta and antipasti. The restaurant is especially well-known for their homemade pizzas, which are cooked in a wood-burning oven. The toppings range from creative, like the Grilled Eggplant Pie with olives, ricotta, and fresh herbs, to classic Margherita. The wine list features a selection of Italian wines that pair perfectly with the food.
Kesté
Kesté is an intimate Italian eatery located in Greenwich Village. The menu features traditional Neapolitan pizzas, with a range of topping options like cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, and anchovies. The restaurant is also known for its authentic pasta dishes, like the Spaghetti alla Carbonara. The wine list includes a selection of Italian reds, whites, and sparkling wines.
San Marzano
San Marzano is an upscale Italian restaurant in the West Village. The menu includes classic Italian fare, like the homemade Tagliatelle with creamy truffle sauce, as well as a selection of inventive small plates. Signature dishes include the Branzino with porcini and cherry tomatoes, and the spaghetti alla chitarra with lobster and zucchini. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of Italian wines, which can be paired with the food for ultimate indulgence.
New York City has no shortage of top-notch Italian restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering place with friends, you’ll find the perfect spot in this city. From Michelin-starred restaurants to neighborhood favorites, there’s something for everyone in this list of the top best Italian restaurants in New York City.
