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The way New York celebrates Italian Food is a sight to behold. In the Big Apple, you will witness the most unique and creative variations of classic Italian dishes that can never be found elsewhere. Despite having an abundance of famous Italian eateries, you still can never get enough of delighting yourself with the flavours.
Several places have stood the test of time and served as landmarks while the neighbourhood changed over time. Others were rather newcomers that presented a brand new array of contemporary fusions. If you like the old charm or want to explore experimental innovations, you will find true satisfaction in New York City.
Restaurants like Roberto's and Bamonte's are renowned for serving the best dishes for years. These Italian places have a diverse selection of authentic pasta and steaks which will transport you to Italy through its tantalising flavours. If you are looking for the best Italian Restaurants in NYC, make sure to check out these seven places.
7 Italian Restaurants In NYC For A Gourment Fare
1) Roberto's
Roberto's, a renowned Italian eatery in the Bronx's Little Italy, offers Salerno specialities in an authentic, old-world atmosphere. With three decades of culinary excellence, Chef Roberto Paciullo's menu features a diverse selection including pasta, seafood, steak, and more. Located away from the bustling main streets, Roberto's presents a refreshing departure from typical Italian American fare, with a sophisticated wine list and inventive dishes like steamed seasonal vegetables and rabbit stew. Experience blissfully simple yet flavourful cuisine crafted by Chef Paciullo in this cherished Bronx establishment.
Location: 603 Crescent Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, United States
Timings: Sun-Mon: Closed; Tue-Thu: 12–2:30 pm, 5–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 12–2:30 pm, 5–11 pm
Must try: Grilled Calamari, Tinfoil-baked Radiatore pasta, Short ribs, Eggplant Parmigiana, Seafood, Steak
Price for 2: $90 approx.
2) Rezdôra
Rezdôra, a standout among upscale Italian eateries, breaks the mould with its innovative take on Emilia-Romagna cuisine. Helmed by Chef Stefano Secchi, formerly of Osteria Francescana, Rezdôra offers rustic Northern Italian fare with impeccable technique and premium ingredients. Highlights include the signature gnocco fritto and cappelletti verde. The pasta-tasting menu lists the famous regional dishes with an authentic Italian touch. With its classic offerings, this place has gained several accolades since 2019 which makes it a must-visit destination.
Location: 27 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, United States
Timings: Mon: 5–10:30 pm; Tue-Fri: 12–2:30 pm, 5–10:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11:30 am–2:30 pm, 5–10:30 pm
Must try: Gnocco Fritto and Cappelletti Verde
Price for 2: $100 approx.
Image Credit: Rezdôra
3) Emilio's Ballato
Emilio's Ballato was established in 1956. This restaurant is like a nostalgic journey to mid-century New York. The interior is adorned with vintage decor and warm ambience.
This cosy spot brings the charm of little Italy to the city. Their dishes like spaghetti pomodoro and gamberi oreganate have earned special attention from locals. If you visit, do not miss the satisfying plates of veal parm, sausage broccoli rabe, and flavourful pasta, accompanied by a glass of house wine.
Location: 55 E Houston St, New York, NY 10012, United States
Timings: Sun-Thu: 12–4 pm, 5–11 pm; Fri-Sat: 12–4 pm, 5 pm–12 am
Must try: Spaghetti Pomodoro, Gamberi Oreganate, Veal Parmigiana, Sausage and Broccoli Rabe, Focaccia, Red peppers, Tripe
Price for 2: $90 approx.
4) Lilia
Situated in a former garage in Williamsburg, Lilia serves the perfect pasta dishes. Renowned chef-owner Missy Robbins crafts delectable dishes like rigatoni diavola and mafaldini spiked with pink peppercorns. Along with this, you also get seafood delicacies like grilled clams with Calabrian chillies. You should also try Succulent Lamb Steaks. If you can get a reservation here, you should consider yourself lucky. Since its inception, Lilia has become the best place in New York to savour authentic Italian delights.
Location: 567 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 4–10 pm
Must try: Succulent Lamb Steaks, Rigatoni Diavola and Mafaldini
Price for 2: $100 approx.
Image Credit: Lilia
5) Bamonte's
Bamonte's was first opened in 1900 and since then it has preserved the vintage Brooklyn charm with its unchanged retro ambiance. This century-old NYC restaurant serves classic Italian-American fare. The interior looks like a movie with swagged curtains and faded celebrity photos. The highlighting feature of the menu is their famous Red Sauce. Must-try dishes like briny clams oreganata and pork chops with pickled peppers ensure a satisfying repast. A visit to Bamonte's promises an authentic taste of old-school Italian dining in the heart of trendy Brooklyn.
Location: 457 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, United States
Timings: Sun-Thu: 11 am–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 11 am–11 pm
Must try: Briny Clams Oreganata, Spaghetti and meatballs, Famous pork chops with pickled peppers, Cannoli
Price for 2: $90 approx.
6) Via Carota
Loved by celebrities, Via Carota is a warmly inviting restaurant adorned with wood and exposed brick interior. With a menu crafted by companionment of famous chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams, this restaurant presents a delectable Italian feast. Since its opening in 2014, Via Carota has been a sought-after place for its dishes like Gorgonzola Bruschetta and Insalata Verde. You should also try out Pappardelle Al Cinghiale, Tiramisu, Negroni Classico, Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe and Pistachio Cannoli.
Location: 51 Grove St., New York, New York 10014
Timings: Mon-Fri: 11 am–11 pm; Sat-Sun: 10 am–11 pm
Must Try: Pappardelle Al Cinghiale, Tiramisù, Negroni Classico, Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe and Pistachio Cannoli
Price for 2: $90 approx.
Image Credit: Via Carota
7) I Sodi
I Sodi is a cherished Italian restaurant in the West Village which serves Tuscan-inspired cuisine. This place exudes a romantic charm, making it a perfect intimate dining place for dates. Owned by former fashion executive turned culinary star Rita Sodi, this compact yet inviting restaurant has won the hearts of New Yorkers since 2008. Their impeccable pasta dishes like artichoke lasagna and pappardelle al Limone are famous highlights on the menu. Along with this, you can also find options like whole grilled branzino and a refined antipasti platter.
Location: 314 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, United States
Timings: Mon-Fri: 4:30–10:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11:30 am–3 pm, 4:30–11 pm
Must try: Artichoke lasagna, Pappardelle al limone, Whole grilled branzino, Antipasti platter, Burrata, Chicken, Chops, Steak
Price for 2: $100 approx.
In these amazing Italian Restaurants in NYC, you can savour a piece of true Italy. Several of these have been around for ages, and you can taste the true nostalgia of New York.
