New York City is spoiled with some of the best Italian food on the East Coast. Here, we scoured our favorite local restaurants to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Italy.
In the foodie wonderland that is New York, one name stands out like its neon sign: Carbone. This iconic spot has earned its legendary status, thanks in no small part to its spicy rigatoni vodka that’s nothing short of life-changing. With Major Food Group’s culinary magic sprinkled all over the city, the original Carbone location remains the crown jewel, living up to every bit of its hype—and then some. 181 Thompson St., carbonenewyork.com
Prince Street Hospitality brings Italian flair to life with Cucina Alba, a charming Italian hideaway by the Highline. Get ready to fall in love with handmade bread, flavorful pasta and hearty protein-forward dishes that the culinary team crafts with a dash of love and a sprinkle of magic. Whether diving into its signature focaccia della casa, savoring the lobster linguine or turning up the heat with orecchiette arrabbiata, each bite is like a delicious trip to Italy. With interiors as captivating as the food, every dish is a little taste of Italy’s rich culinary story. 511 W. 18 St., cucinaalba.com
Don Angie has quickly become West Village’s culinary crown jewel, stealing the spotlight with its legendary lasagna for two. Dreamed up by the dynamic duo Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli in partnership with Quality Branded, this place is a feast for the senses. Dive into the zesty chrysanthemum salad and the irresistible stuffed garlic flatbread, and you’ll see why this spot is hard to reserve. 103 Greenwich Ave., donangie.com
Crafted with amore and authenticity, Emilio’s Ballato has been a beloved Nolita gem since it started serving authentic Italian fare in the 1950s. Step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a cozy trattoria in Italy, complete with vintage decor, snug booths and walls decked out in celebrity snapshots. The real stars of the show? The Costello d’Vitello Parmigiana and Petto di Pollo alla Parmigiana are absolute must-tries at this iconic, walk-in-only hot spot. 55 E. Houston St., emiliosballato.com
Good taste runs in the Scotto family, where Rosanna, Jenna and Marion make Fresco by Scotto the ultimate family affair. Since its debut in 1993, this restaurant has set the New York City dining scene ablaze, wowing diners with dishes like Mama Scotto’s Meatball alla Toscana, Chicken piccata and its steak caesar. At this East Side hot spot, guests are captivated by the exterior’s vibrant floral arrangements but stay for the downright delicious Italian plates. 34 E. 52 St., frescobyscottony.com
Serving as a love letter to Italy, I Sodi brings something special to the table: a multi-layered lasagna that has gained a cult-like following with good reason. Helming it all is chef Rita Sodi, whose Italian roots infuse every bite with authentic “buonissimo” flavor. With decadent bites and rustic interiors to match, securing a reservation at I Sodi is a decision you’ll be glad you made. 314 Bleecker St., isodinyc.com
When it comes to satisfying Italian cravings, L’Artusi speaks the language of pasta, dessert and meats fluently. The menu is a delightful adventure with executive chef and partner Joe Vigorito, pastry chef Sadie Sayre, and group beverage director Anncherie Saludo steering the ship. For those seeking an elevated experience, The Supper Club at L’Artusi offers ticketed communal dining events at an elegant long table. Curated by executive chef Joe Vigorito and his team, the menu features seasonal themes for a memorable culinary journey. Multiple locations, lartusi.com
When Italian cravings intensify, head over to Brooklyn to indulge in any pasta dish from Misi. If you score a coveted reservation at this hot spot (trust us, it’s worth the hustle), treat yourself like never before. Start with the whipped ricotta crostini, dive into the mezze rigatoni and savor the sheep’s milk ricotta—just to name a few of the mouthwatering delights. This gem is the brainchild of culinary genius Missy Robbins, so if you’re feeling lucky, double down and set alerts for her other Brooklyn treasure, Lilia. 329 Kent Ave., Brooklyn, misinewyork.com
With an impressive roster of restaurants under its belt, it’s safe to say that you’ve most likely been wined and dined by LDV Hospitality. Its New York flagship keeps the culinary bar high with standout dishes like fresh crudo, handmade pasts and seasonally inspired mains, among other palatable plates. Spearheading it all is seasoned chef Jorge Espinoza, who takes a modern approach to Italian cuisine—now that’s amore. The James Hotel, 88 Madison Ave., scarpettarestaurants.com
A delicious dance of pasta passion takes the stage at Via Carota, where the restaurant’s star performers are its tagliatelle, tonnarelli, pappardelle and risotto. The brainchild of esteemed culinary maestros Rita Sodi and Jody Williams, the seasonally driven menu draws inspiration from 17th-century Florence. Bringing a slice of la dolce vita to the heart of the West Village, be prepared to set a few Resy alerts—because everyone’s trying to score a seat at this Italian gem. 51 Grove St., viacarota.com
Photography by: Heather Wilensky; Ashley Sears; courtesy of Emilio's Ballato; courtesy of Fresco by Scotto; courtesy of I sodi; courtesy of LDV Hospitality; Ceruti Draime
