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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in New York

Risotto and arancini

Made for those who are obsessed with the versatility of arborio rice and want to experience it in both its creamy, plated form and its crispy, fried arancini iteration.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with wrap-around windows and warm, eclectic decor creates a cozy, European-inspired vibe. Loud atmosphere fills the space with energetic, welcoming energy. Locals gather for creative draft Negronis and thoughtfully paired small plates.

Rich and beautifully balanced, the crab risotto stands out with its smooth, polished texture. The curry leaf pesto risotto offers a satisfying option, available with crab or vegetarian.

Biriyani arancini stands out with its inspired flavor and unforgettable taste. These fried arancini balls pair well with other dishes like pot pie and latkes that have a unique spin.

People are saying

"The food here is creative, delicious, and full of flavor."

"I enjoyed the creative cocktails and perfect bites."

"The crab risotto is rich and beautifully balanced."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is advised because the restaurant is always busy.

2

Expect tight booth seating; the bar is a better option for comfort.

3

Folk offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

02
Sage Bar And Grille image 1
American restaurant

Modern, spacious bar with large TVs and friendly bartenders creates a calm, elegant atmosphere. Warm, inviting decor complements a relaxing vibe where guests enjoy outstanding cocktails and generous servings of flavorful food.

Shrimp and scallop risotto stands out with its rich seafood flavor and creamy texture. It pairs well with other dishes but shines on its own as a delicious entree.

Crispy exterior and cheesy interior define the arancini here. They stay moist inside and come with a flavorful sauce that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"I thought the arancini were the best I've ever had."

"I wanted to return for the amazing shrimp and scallop risotto."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekends to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

03
The Clam image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers cozy, stylish interior with bright outdoor patios decorated with real flowers and plants. Atmosphere feels inviting and charming, perfect for romantic meals centered on fresh shellfish. Seating is cramped indoors, but the space balances warmth and brightness well.

Seafood pairs well with creamy risottos like butternut squash and corn. Salmon and branzino risottos offer rich, savory flavors. Scallops and halibut come with well-balanced risotto sides.

Lobster arancini stands out as a distinctive appetizer here. It pairs well with other starters like Kampachi crudo and shrimp spring rolls.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters, is super fresh and briny."

"The corn risotto with scallops or halibut is amazing."

"You've got to try the lobster arancini; they're a stand-out appetizer."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.

2

Oysters are $2 each during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy.

04
Osteria La Baia image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian spot offers a cozy vibe with live music and an open kitchen. Creamy truffle risotto delivers rich, earthy flavors. Starter shines with caviar arancini, perfectly textured and flavorful.

Truffle risotto stands out with rich, earthy flavors. The risotto overall is creamy and well-prepared, matching the quality of other dishes like bolognese and tuna crudo.

Caviar arancini stands out with its rich flavor and perfect texture. It pairs well as a starter alongside dishes like octopus carpaccio and earns consistent praise for quality.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The risotto here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"You have to try the arancini topped with caviar; it's a favorite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant is always busy.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with cocktails, appetizers, entrees, and dessert.

3

Expect to spend between $130 to $150 per person for dinner.

05
Risotteria Melotti NYC image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with quaint rustic decor and tight seating creates a welcoming, homey atmosphere. Friendly staff and gluten-free menu cater to comfort and dietary needs. Extensive risotto options and quality wine selection define the dining experience.

Gluten-free risottos come in a good variety with options like truffle, calcio e pepe, and lemon shrimp. The risotto tastes authentic, reflecting quality ingredients and a cozy, Italian feel.

Special arancini stand out with rich fillings and a delicious taste. Daily variations offer fresh options alongside classic risotto dishes.

People are saying

"I found the risotto here to be amazing."

"The gluten-free tiramisu was the best I've ever had."

"The Arancini del Giorno was a fantastic must-have."

Good to know

1

Everything is 100% gluten free, making it safe for those with Celiac disease.

2

The restaurant does not honor reservations, so expect potential wait times.

3

You should calculate at least $50 per person for eating and drinking.

06
Zia Maria Chelsea image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers stylish interior with comfortable seating and outside views including the Empire State Building's tip. Atmosphere stays inviting and lively with great music enhancing the vibe. Guests enjoy authentic pizza and delicious appetizers in a welcoming environment.

Mushroom risotto stands out as a key dish here. The risotto pairs well with the pappardelle funghi pasta, offering a solid choice for those who enjoy rich, earthy flavors.

Crunchy crust and well-seasoned filling define the arancini here. They come perfectly cooked, sometimes served separately from sauce, highlighting their divine texture and flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"I thought the Arancini were the best I had in memory."

"I really recommend the risotto; it was very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drinks for $6 and cocktails at 2-for-1 pricing.

2

The restaurant has a 45-minute seating limit during busy hours.

3

Valentineโ€™s Day is extremely busy, so plan ahead.

07
Marcellino image 1
Italian restaurant

Giant wood-fired pizza oven behind the bar anchors a space with cozy Italian decor and beautiful outdoor patio views. Fantastic music sets a lively yet pleasant mood, making it ideal for conversation and relaxed dining.

Seafood and mushroom risottos stand out with fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Truffle risotto offers a creamy texture that complements the menu well.

Arancini here have a melting texture and a fresh, delicious flavor. They come in small portions, usually two pieces, and pair well with other dishes like shrimp fra diavolo.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is delicious."

"The Risotto here is amazing, with truly top-notch service."

"I highly recommend trying these amazing Arancini."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was busy during the San Cerano festival.

2

The total cost for 2 people was $250.

3

The restaurant automatically charges 18% gratuity even for a party of 2.

08
Mr. Capri image 1
Italian restaurant

Restaurant captures Mediterranean flair with authentic Neapolitan decor and spacious, well-spaced seating. Atmosphere feels homey and quiet, evoking a sense of being on a beautiful Italian island. Outdoor benches offer a comfortable spot for people watching while enjoying drinks.

Lemon risotto with shrimp stands out with its balanced flavors and perfect texture. Risotto and pasta dishes avoid being overly salty or garlicky, keeping the taste clean and precise.

Crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor, the arancini show use of high-quality ingredients and careful frying. The meatball and arancini appetizers stand out as outstanding choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"I found the risotto to be sheer perfection."

"The arancini were crispy and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Mr. Capri offers brunch deals and participates in Restaurant Week promotions until February.

2

Expect crowded weekends; reservations are suggested for dinner.

3

Street parking is available nearby for guests.

09
Coletta Italian Vegan Restaurant image 1

Beautiful, intimate vegan Italian restaurant with cozy yet airy design and library-like wine walls. Atmosphere stays quiet enough for conversation with Italian music playing softly. Tables sit close together, creating a social but relaxed vibe.

Risotto stands out for its creamy texture and fantastic flavor, especially the sunchoke and king oyster mushroom versions. Both show a strong focus on rich, well-balanced ingredients.

Arancini come with a crispy outside and a creamy inside. The vegan version stands out as amazing and is worth ordering more than once.

People are saying

"I experienced the best vegan Italian food I had ever had."

"The risotto is creamy and flavorful."

"The Arancini were perfectly crispy outside and creamy inside."

Good to know

1

Reservations for dinner are recommended on busy nights, especially Sundays.

2

The restaurant offers a special chunk steak night each week.

3

The tasting menu is popular and well-received by guests.

10
Osteria Del Porto image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy ambience with shabby chic decor inside a historic building and a nice outdoor seating area for al fresco dining. The atmosphere feels peaceful and elegant, suitable for intimate dinners. Wine bottles line the walls, highlighting a large selection of drinks.

Purple rice risotto comes perfectly al dente with a bright lemon flavor that avoids bitterness. Saffron risotto pairs well with osso bucco, while risotto Milanese complements lamb shank and tenderloin dishes.

Fried cheese rice balls come with a lemony brightness that lifts the flavor. The arancini pairs well with a rich lamb ragu and a fresh, light sauce.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is like comforting home-cooking."

"The Arancini al Limone were a fresh, light start."

"The cod with lemon risotto was super flavorful and perfectly al dente."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers day specials that change regularly.

2

Be aware that they may add a 20% tip without your consent.

3

The restaurant has a B health rating.

11
Abaita - Kosher Dairy image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small space with close tables and an open kitchen creates a lively, engaging atmosphere. Outdoor areas offer a cozy, modern design that feels like an indoor cafe. Noise levels can be high, and seating may feel cramped or stuffy during busy times.

Risotto stands out for its rich flavor and satisfying texture. It pairs well with other dishes like artichoke pizza and heirloom tomato salad, making it a solid choice on the menu.

Arancini here come out light and perfectly cooked, offering a creative twist like the Spanish saffron version. The appetizer stands out alongside other dishes like focaccia and mushroom pizza.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta and pizza here are phenomenal."

"I thought the risotto might have been the best I've had."

"The Arancini here are cooked to perfection and so light."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect to pay around 600 shekels for a starter, two mains, and dessert.

3

The small salad portion does not reflect the high price of the meal.

12
Via Carota image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian gastroteca offers communal dining tables and a carefully curated menu that honors traditional roots. Atmosphere shifts from noisy indoors to quiet back room and a heated outdoor terrace perfect for people watching. Drinks include an amazing Negroni menu and unique spritzes.

Bright Meyer lemon flavor defines the risotto here. It comes with Parmigiano and has a light, fresh taste that stands out.

Crunchy shell and oozing rice filling define the nduja arancini here. The arancini stand out as really good and among the best encountered.

People are saying

"The cacio e pepe here is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"The vegetable risotto was cooked to perfection."

"The Arancini were crispy outside and cheesy inside."

Good to know

1

To avoid the wait, go right before peak lunch or dinner dining hours.

2

The wait time at the restaurant is over 45 minutes.

3

Walking in on a less busy day is recommended.

13
Zia Maria Little Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers homey atmosphere with live accordion music and table-side fresh pasta preparation. Outdoor seating provides a view of the illuminated Empire State Building with heaters for comfort. Staff engage guests with personalized entertainment and complimentary drinks.

Truffle Risotto stands out with a perfect balance of mushroom and truffle flavors. The risotto dishes consistently pair well with other Italian classics like carbonara and pizza.

Crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside, the arancini arrives quickly and packs flavorful and perfectly cooked qualities. It pairs well with other dishes like minestrone soup and bruschetta.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and prepared right in front of you."

"The truffle mushroom risotto was outstanding."

"I thought the arancini was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Birthday celebrations include a fun serenade by the wait staff.

2

The restaurant dims the lights around 4:40 PM for dinner ambiance.

3

An automatic 18% service charge is included for parties of two.

14
Senza Gluten image 1
Gluten-free restaurant

Small, vintage-style restaurant offers tight seating and a cozy atmosphere with genuine Italian influences. Outdoor seating provides a quiet space for dining and people watching. Staff wear sophisticated uniforms, enhancing the polished yet intimate vibe.

Creamy texture stands out in the risotto, especially the mushroom risotto and vegan option. The vegan risotto offers excellent value but always includes onions, as staff cannot prepare it without them.

A crispy exterior and creamy interior define the arancini special, which is packed with flavor. Options include gluten-free choices, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

People are saying

"I ate the best Italian food, and it was all gluten-free."

"The arancini were so crisp outside and creamy inside."

"The risotto here is so creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Senza Gluten only takes payment by cash or Amex; there's an ATM in the basement.

2

It is better to reserve a table in advance to ensure seating.

3

Celiacs can eat here without worrying about cross-contamination.

15
Sofia's of Little Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, beautiful atmosphere with an inviting outdoor terrace and views of the Empire State Building. Live jazz music fills the space, creating an energetic vibe that can be loud at times. Known for exceptional cocktails and desserts, it features standout espresso martinis and tiramisu.

Shrimp Risotto alla Carbonara stands out with its artful presentation and rich flavor. Mushroom risotto offers a great, earthy taste, while the vegan risotto serves as a notable plant-based option.

Well made arancini come with a gorgeous sauce. They pair well with other dishes like pizza and calamari.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is exceptional and delicious."

"The risotto was very good and delicious."

"I thought the arancini here were as gourmet as it could get."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy one get one cocktails, making it a great deal.

2

During happy hour, customers may need to ask multiple times for drinks.

3

An automatic 22% tip is included in the bill.

16
Amici Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy brick and wood interior alongside a heated outdoor patio that feels like a Venetian gondola. Atmosphere is family-friendly and comfortable, suitable for gatherings with live music and sports streaming enhancing the experience.

The tre funghi risotto stands out with its creamy texture and pairs well with the wine selection. Other risottos like the 4 cheese and truffle oil versions lack strong flavor and come off as average.

Arancini arrives after about 15 minutes and offers a flavorful and delicious taste. The accompanying sauce stands out more than the arancini itself.

People are saying

"The pasta here is authentic, home-cooked Italian food."

"I found the tri funghi risotto to be beyond great."

"I found the Arancini to be full of flavor and yummy."

Good to know

1

Dinner is treated as an event, similar to traditional European dining.

2

A 20% tip is automatically added to the bill.

17
Bocca di Bacco image 1
Italian restaurant

Warm, rustic decor creates an intimate and authentic Italian atmosphere with close seating and dim lighting. The space balances casual and refined vibes, attracting groups and couples alike. A lively bar area offers notable cocktails alongside the dining room.

Mushroom saffron risotto stands out with its rich flavor. Other risottos like duck risotto appear on the menu, but some versions lack taste.

Fried arancini come out light and tasty with a red sauce that complements them well. Portions are generous, making them a must-have alongside other dishes like calamari.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the creamy Rigatoni Vodka."

"The Arancini here are wonderful, a must-have."

"I found the mushroom risotto to be great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a bottomless brunch with mimosas on weekends.

2

Daily specials are available, providing good value for meals.

3

Reservations are required for large parties, especially during busy times.

18
Senza Gluten by Jemiko -100% Gluten Free Restaurant image 1

Gluten-free restaurant offers beautiful interior design and a lovely back patio with outdoor seating in a quiet neighborhood. Atmosphere feels intimate and elegant, supported by wonderful music and quality cocktails. The setting suits those seeking a serene and welcoming dining experience.

Risotto varies here, sometimes bland with too much salt, other times enjoyable alongside dishes like lasagna and arancini.

Stuffed with truffle cheese and featuring a quattro formaggi blend, the arancini stand out as a delicious appetizer. They pair well with mains like lasagna and branzino.

People are saying

"I couldn't even tell the pasta was gluten-free, it was so delicious."

"The Arancini starter just melted in my mouth."

"I enjoyed the risotto and other dishes here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and Sunday brunch.

2

The restaurant is 100% gluten-free, making it safe for those with celiac disease.

3

They only accept cash and American Express; Visa is not accepted.

19
Osteria Nonnino image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot shines with tableside pasta and lively shows in a cozy, rustic space. Arancini steals the appetizer scene, perfect with cured meats and bruschetta. Creamy risotto dishes like Osso Buco soak up rich flavors, adding depth to the meal.

Osso Buco comes with creamy risotto that soaks up the flavors well. Mushroom risotto offers a rich, earthy taste. Risotto balls provide a crispy twist on the classic dish.

Arancini stands out as a highly recommended dish, often ordered in multiple rounds. It pairs well with other appetizers like cured meats and tomato bruschetta, making it a popular choice to start a meal.

People are saying

"The tableside Cacio e Pepe pasta is phenomenal."

"Our server Al took great care of us."

"The Cacio e Pepe pasta was high quality and chewy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times for walk-ins, especially during peak hours.

3

Happy hour runs until 7pm with discounts on drinks and snacks.

20
Aqua Roma | New York image 1
Italian restaurant

Large space features a huge bar and 70-foot sushi bar with nets surrounding the bar adding visual interest. Atmosphere shifts from cozy, dimly lit dining to lively with a late-night DJ creating vibrant energy. Guests enjoy a stylish setting with thoughtful design and private rooms upstairs.

Rich, creamy, and well-seasoned, the risotto stands out with its flavorful profile. The Risotto Allโ€™Astice offers a wonderful main course experience.

Mushroom arancini come with a black truffle touch and a chestnut center for a unique twist. These familiar bites offer surprising flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and spectacular."

"The risotto recommendations were fantastic and knowledgeable."

"The arancini are cheesy with good flavor and texture."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

3

The 3-course lunch meal deal costs $30, providing good value.

21
Oscar Wilde image 1
New American restaurant

Eclectic Victorian decor blends with Nomad style and Lewis Carroll themes, creating a massive yet intimate cocktail bar. Energetic music fuels dancing, while impressive holiday and Halloween decorations add whimsy. The atmosphere balances charm and vibrancy, drawing a crowd that enjoys style and character.

Rich and savory, the wild mushroom risotto offers a comforting experience. The lobster risotto features chunks of lobster meat and delivers a delicious taste.

Truffle Arancini stands out with rich flavor that even non-fans appreciate. Appetizers include Buffalo Cauliflower and Broccomole, all highly recommended and worth ordering twice.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"The Arancini here have such captivating decor, it's visually stunning."

"The lobster risotto was delicious and loaded with chunks of lobster."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially during holidays.

2

Fridays and Saturdays after 10:30 PM are the best times to visit.

3

The place is packed during happy hour.

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