Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Pasta and dessert spots in Central Harlem

You want a proper meal that ends with a serious dessert, and you refuse to choose between the two.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Pastitalia image 1
Pastitalia image 2
Pastitalia image 3
View all
Pasta shop

Pasta shop offers visible kitchen, backyard garden dining, and Italian-style bar in a cozy, well-decorated space. Atmosphere feels like a slice of Italy with a warm, homey vibe and quiet outdoor patio. Seating options include sun, shade, and air conditioning, creating a relaxed setting for enjoying fresh pasta and pastries.

Desserts come fresh daily with an array of vegan and gluten-free options that are homemade. Pairing them with nice coffee completes the meal perfectly.

Freshly made pasta comes in interesting shapes designed for each dish and cooks in just 3 minutes. Staff offer expert pairing advice for sauces and pastries, enhancing the authentic Italian experience.

People are saying

"I found the handmade pasta here to be fresh and delicious."

"I'd come back just for the coffee; it's that good."

"The desserts here were unbelievable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is self-serve, requiring customers to buy food at the counter.

2

The price for 2 vegetarian pastas is $50.

3

The restaurant closes at 6:30 PM, so plan to arrive before then.

02
Safari image 1
East African restaurant

Somali culture shines through authentic decor and traditional music, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. Floor seating with cushions offers a unique, comfortable experience that feels inviting and home-like. The space balances a clean, organized layout with charming, culturally rich details.

Great dessert options stand out here. The dessert is consistently yum and worth trying.

Busketti pasta stands out with its rich flavor. Chicken pasta and Alfredo pasta also feature as solid options.

People are saying

"This Somali food is the best I've had in years."

"You really shouldn't skip the desserts here; they're awesome."

"The Busketti pasta that comes with the meal is amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a generous restaurant week deal.

2

Dinner for two with drinks is approximately $70.

3

The menu includes multiple vegetarian options.

03
The Edge Harlem image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with exposed brick interior and Harlem-inspired decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Live R&B and Reggae music adds a soulful, relaxed vibe. The setting feels cozy and bustling, especially during busy times.

Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding comes topped with rum-infused whipped cream and seasonal berries. Chocolate mousse also appears as a rich, popular choice.

Jerk chicken and seafood shine in the pasta dishes here. Options like jerk chicken alfredo, jerk shrimp pasta, and seafood pasta with muscles and shrimp offer bold flavors and generous portions.

People are saying

"The brunch here has delicious and exciting options."

"I was a significant reason the Lamb Burger became a regular menu item."

"You have to try the Jerk Shrimp Pasta; it's so tasteful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Live music occurs on Wednesday evenings, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Parking can be challenging, so consider alternative transportation options.

04
Cucina Italian tavern image 1

Italian tavern blends authentic brick fireplace and tasteful decor with an unexpected Hip Hop soundtrack creating a warm, inviting vibe. The space balances lively energy with cozy comfort, attracting a mix of neighbors and visitors. A bar and patio add to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

Tiramisu stands out as a classic dessert option here. Other sweet treats also appear on the menu.

Moist chicken with a dollop of ricotta tops the chicken parmesan. Spaghetti comes with fresh basil and toasted garlic in a bright marinara sauce.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and well-crafted."

"The chicken parmesan with rigatoni vodka pasta was amazing."

"The desserts here are delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

They have a bottomless brunch option for a fixed price.

3

Martini Monday features special pricing on martinis all night.

05
Vinaterรญa image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating includes heated pods that create an intimate atmosphere with tables placed very close together. The interior is sunny and bright with classy decor, balancing a lively bar scene and a romantic vibe despite occasional noise and busy periods.

Desserts feature an olive oil cake that is not too sweet and has a perfect texture. They consistently deliver delicious options alongside other dishes.

Black spaghetti with seafood stands out with its creamy olio sauce and octopus. Pasta dishes include options like mafalde short ribs ragu and customized pasta for children.

People are saying

"The food at this dinner spot is consistently great and never disappoints."

"The black seafood pasta here is delicious and perfect."

"The olive oil cake for dessert was not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when it gets busy.

2

Happy hour offers $1.50 oysters and great specials on wine and select dishes.

3

Be prepared for a wait, particularly for outdoor seating during peak hours.

06
PB Brasserie steak house image 1

Modern steak house offers a spacious, elegant design with classy decor and pristine uniforms. Atmosphere blends warmth and sophistication with lively music from a DJ playing afrobeats and R&B. Private event space adds versatility for celebrations.

Desserts include a fudge brownie rated extremely high for taste. Staff provide thorough explanations of dessert options. Dessert serves as a delightful cherry on top to the meal.

Lobster and shrimp spaghetti stands out with rich seafood flavors. The pasta dishes combine fresh shellfish and a satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The lobster and shrimp pasta here is buttery and creamy."

"The fudge brownie dessert was a million out of ten."

Good to know

1

PB Brasserie is open on Sundays despite Google Maps indicating they are closed.

2

PB Brasserie offers a delightful menu of French cuisine.

3

PB Brasserie is suitable for a romantic dinner or special celebration.

07
Red Rooster Harlem image 1

Restaurant offers live jazz performances with a colorful African American decor that creates a soulful atmosphere. The space includes a covered terrace and a bar area, though the bar can feel cramped. The vibe is engaging and lively, especially during music events.

Fresh pasta features in dishes like the Bucatini Piccadilly with plentiful seafood. The Mac and Cheese with collard greens offers creamy, cheesy pasta paired with earthy, well-seasoned greens.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and delicious."

"The seafood pasta here is so rich and tasty."

"The mango sorbet dessert was divine and felt healthy."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation well in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

2

Gospel brunch is held every Sunday and features live music.

3

Happy hour runs from noon to 10 p.m. with discounted appetizers and cocktails.

08
Lido Harlem Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious Italian restaurant with stylish design and acoustic panels that keep noise low. Calm and friendly atmosphere suits quiet dining, especially during the week. Outdoor seating includes a quiet shed, and music adds to the pleasant vibe.

Chef Serena Bass creates all desserts in-house, crafting each item with seasonal ingredients. Desserts match the gourmet quality found in appetizers and entrees.

Squid ink pasta stands out with nearly perfect flavor. Gnocchi and spaghetti with veal meatballs also deliver solid, cheesy bread complements the pasta well.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully prepared and full of flavor."

"The pasta dishes here are divine and never miss."

"The desserts here, like the brownie, were surprisingly small."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during busy times.

2

The restaurant offers bottomless mimosas during brunch for $20 each for 90 minutes.

3

Happy hour food choices are limited and only available at the bar.

Discover more

Central Harlem, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...