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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in CPW Historic District

Authentic Italian food

Made for those who seek out the specific, regional flavors of Italy without any modern shortcuts.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Celeste image 1
Celeste image 2
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Italian restaurant

Neighborhood Italian restaurant offers authentic atmosphere with tight, cozy seating and outdoor heated dining. The vibe stays friendly and lively, enhanced by classic Italian movies and music. Wine and cocktails, including wood-fired pizza, stand out as highlights.

Offers authentic Italian cuisine with a no frills approach. Serves Neapolitan-style dishes that stay true to traditional flavors.

Authentic Neapolitan pizza and delectable gnocchi stand out here. Pasta dishes, especially ravioli with truffle oil, showcase rich Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The homemade Italian food, especially the pasta, tastes so fresh."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, authentic Italian food."

"The Italian food here felt like being in Italy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, so it's important to bring cash.

2

Celeste is cash only, so you need to hit an ATM before visiting.

3

The restaurant week offer runs until Feb 9 according to the menu.

02
La Perla Nascosta image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a warm and authentic vibe that suits relaxed dinners and dates. Guests find the space balances elegance and comfort without pretense. The experience feels like a hidden gem for genuine Italian flavors and thoughtful details.

Warm atmosphere creates an authentic Italian dining experience. The cuisine stays true to traditional flavors and recipes.

Bubbling, cheesy baked pasta features homemade noodles with fresh, balanced flavors that invite mopping up every drop of sauce. The tiramisu stands out as rich and memorable, while the bruschetta and burrata offer fresh, flavorful, and unique tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh with a homemade taste."

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the branzino and lasagna."

"The food here tastes authentic and is made with care."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

2

Takeout is available for those who prefer dining at home.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

03
Panineria UWS image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian sandwich shop with cozy atmosphere and warm, new interior offers a relaxed vibe that invites lingering. The space serves authentic panini made with fresh, high-quality ingredients reflecting Italian tradition. Options include plant-based sandwiches, appealing to diverse tastes in a friendly setting.

Food offers truly authentic Italian flavors, especially in the panino. Staff at the pop-up show genuine warmth and authenticity.

Pasta bolognese comes with fresh parmesan melting on top. The ricotta and truffle oil bruschetta offers a rich, savory start. Sandwiches feature Italian prosciutto and ham with fresh veggies. Desserts include a standout cannoli.

People are saying

"I found their Italian sandwiches really delicious."

"The Italian Food sandwiches with prosciutto are delicious."

"I found the food to be truly authentic Italian."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events and cooking classes.

2

The restaurant hosts a free panini pop-up on select days.

3

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

04
Song’e Napule Upper West image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with modern blue and white decor and Maradona soccer theme creates a distinct Neapolitan vibe. Atmosphere is cozy yet loud, making conversation difficult at times. Seating is tight, with tables close together, offering an authentic but bustling dining experience.

The spot serves authentic Neapolitan pizza with flavors straight from Naples, Italy. It offers a warm southern Italian atmosphere and the freshest, most genuine Italian dishes in the city.

Homemade gnocchi stands out with rich flavor and soft texture. The menu also features eggplant pizza, black squid ink pasta, and Spaghetti Nerano, all showcasing authentic Italian tastes.

People are saying

"The pasta here is as good as it gets, perfectly cooked."

"I loved the authentic Neapolitan pizza with its light, crafted dough."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is like the ones I had in Naples."

Good to know

1

You only have 90 minutes to finish your meal after being seated.

2

The restaurant offers lunch specials at 15 USD per pizza.

3

The dinner for two costs $100 with no alcohol and before any tip.

05
Spiga Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, quaint Italian bistro offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Guests often bring their own wine, enhancing the relaxed, neighborhood feel. The setting feels authentic and tucked away, creating a hidden gem experience.

Dishes feature fresh ingredients and rich flavors that capture true Italian taste. The food offers genuine authenticity with superb quality and balanced pricing.

Softest gnocchi and creamy truffle pasta stand out alongside fettuccini bolognese with mushroom cream. Tiramisu offers a perfect balance of espresso and cocoa, creamy but not too sweet.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, full of fresh ingredients and rich flavors."

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

"I found the authentic Italian food to be full of fresh ingredients and rich flavors."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation if you can, as they fill up quickly.

2

This restaurant is BYOB with no corkage fee.

3

The prices are very good for NYC, averaging $90 per person after tax and tip.

06
Lucciola image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space filled with over 5,000 wine bottles creates a warm, authentic Italian vibe. Dim lighting and white tablecloths set a cozy, elegant atmosphere where guests enjoy exceptional wine pairings and classic Italian dishes. The setting feels like old New York glamour mixed with genuine Italian charm.

Every dish offers flavorful, authentic Italian taste with homemade pasta cooked to perfection. The ambiance adds a charming, genuine feel that complements the food's authenticity.

Carbonara special stands out as a signature dish, served consistently across multiple visits. The pasta quality surpasses that found in Chicago, highlighting authentic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The tasting menu was perfectly balanced and absolutely delicious."

"The Italian food here is spectacular and amazing."

"The authentic Italian cuisine here is exquisite, with every dish bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 'no menu' tasting menu that is the chef's choice.

2

The tasting menu includes wine pairings selected by the server Eliot.

3

The nine course meal is estimated to be a 3 to 3.5 hour experience.

07
Osteria Accademia image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with an interior resembling a library lined with bookcases creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant option when weather permits. Wine selections are excellent and reasonably priced, complementing the delicious, well-prepared food.

Pasta dishes like cacio e pepe and short rib ragu stand out for their authentic, rich flavors. The menu features a solid range of authentic Italian dishes prepared with care.

Croquettes, burrata, and wine selection stand out on the menu. Dishes like Caesar Salad, Meatballs, Ravioli, and Paccheri offer a nice variety of Italian flavors. The atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and large group events.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pastas, is handmade fresh and delicious."

"It's a super cozy, welcoming neighborhood spot."

"The authentic Italian cuisine and service here are outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4:30-6pm with $9 glasses of Prosecco.

2

The restaurant offers several antipasti specials during happy hour.

3

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

08
Sempre Oggi image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers sleek interiors with warm lighting and porcelain-tiled ceiling, creating an inviting, upscale atmosphere. Spacious layout includes intimate rooms allowing quiet conversation despite moderate noise levels. Crowd is lively and diverse, enhancing an energized yet romantic vibe.

Offers true Italian food with flavors matching those found in Italy. Serves some of the most authentic and delicious dishes in New York.

Focaccia stands out with its exceptional texture. Pasta dishes like orecchiette with Calabrian chili and Meyer lemon and stozzapreti with Sicilian pesto and almonds offer unique, flavorful twists.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian with fresh ingredients."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is perfection."

"I found the most authentic Italian food, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially for special occasions.

2

The restaurant offers a special menu for birthday celebrations with personalized touches.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere, making it harder to get in without a reservation.

09
Tarallucci e Vino Upper West Side image 1

Italian restaurant offers cozy indoor dining and a chic wine bar with ample outdoor seating on a busy corner. Atmosphere feels authentically Italian with pleasant music and a welcoming vibe. Guests often enjoy excellent wine pairings alongside well-prepared dishes in a refined, tidy setting.

Offers authentic Italian flavors that closely resemble those found in Italy. The atmosphere supports a true Italian dining experience with warm and welcoming vibes.

House-made pastas like cacio e pepe and pappardelle alla bolognese come with rich, flavorful sauces and perfect cooking. Desserts include a standout tiramisu, and appetizers feature fresh burrata and a cold eggplant and zucchini dish.

People are saying

"I found the wine selection to be a cozy, delightful little spot."

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing and delicious."

"The pasta dishes here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted house white wine and appetizers.

2

Restaurant week features a three-course meal for $60.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour with wine and spritz.

10
CASASALVO™ Café image 1

Outdoor seating with two tiers and umbrellas creates a lively, authentic Italian vibe perfect for people watching. The space is small and narrow, combining a coffee shop with a modest Italian grocery section. The atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with scents of fresh pastries and espresso enhancing the experience.

Goodies, pastries, and coffee offer an authentic Italian taste that feels like a Sicilian town. Service includes a pleasant staff member who speaks some Italian, adding to the genuine experience.

Soft, flavorful Focaccia caprese offers a nice crunch. Cannolis come from Sicily, with the donut and cannoli as sweet treats. Takeaway Italian olive oil and gnocchi provide good value.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best in the neighborhood."

"I loved the authentic Italian coffee and pastries here."

"This Italian food is the best quality I've experienced."

Good to know

1

Seating outside is limited, so it's advisable to come early.

2

You can get a cappuccino and a pastry for less than $7.

3

The pistachio croissant costs $3.

11
Salumeria Rosi image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate Italian restaurant with moody mirrored walls and unique Italian-themed decor creates an elegant yet lively atmosphere. Noise level is high, making conversation difficult, while outdoor seating offers a quieter option. Space feels cozy but can be cold inside.

Flawless authentic Italian cuisine shines through with simple, fresh, and flavorful dishes. The experience captures the most genuine taste of Italy in the city.

Tiramisu stands out as absolutely delicious. Pastas come perfectly cooked, with rich cured meats and exceptional cheeses.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is authentic with incredible depth of flavor."

"The service and staff here make it feel like home."

"I found the food to be authentic Italian, tasting like it came straight from an Italian kitchen."

Good to know

1

The restaurant requires a reservation for dinner.

2

There are gluten-free options available.

3

The portion sizes are small, especially for the price.

12
Arte Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy interior with inviting lighting and a large bar creates a stylish atmosphere. Outdoor seating and a garden space with a giant umbrella offer versatile dining options. Popular spot with a friendly vibe and well-laid-out spaces for private events.

Offers authentic Italian cuisine with very delicious dishes. Creates an authentic and comforting environment.

Squid ink pasta stands out with rich flavor. The antipasti Caprese features homemade whole mozzarella. Dishes like chicken paillard, penne a la vodka, and Fusilli Norcia offer solid variety. Desserts include tiramisu and cannoli, with occasional complimentary treats.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and reasonably priced."

"I thought the Italian food was really good and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Italian."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening.

2

The restaurant offers a $25 lunch prefix from 12-6 PM, including appetizer, entree, and dessert.

3

Bottomless brunch includes drinks for 90 minutes.

13
La Pecora Bianca UWS image 1
Italian restaurant

Two-story Italian restaurant with beautiful decor and plentiful indoor and outdoor seating creates a pleasant atmosphere filled with period music. Outdoor patio offers enclosed seating with heaters and strong air conditioning inside keeps the space comfortable. Noise levels vary, with some areas feeling lively and others crowded and loud.

Food feels simple and has an authentic Italian vibe, but it does not follow traditional recipes strictly.

Pasta dishes stand out with super fresh noodles and rich sauces. Options like Pappardelle with lamb ragu and Tagliatelle with burrata offer hearty, authentic flavors. Desserts include classic tiramisu.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the pasta."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and attentive."

"I loved the authentic Italian dishes bursting with vibrant flavors."

Good to know

1

Getting seated without a reservation is possible.

2

You have to arrive early to avoid waiting in line.

3

The kitchen closes between lunch and dinner service around 3:30 PM.

14
Patsy's Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Exposed brick walls and vintage photos create a classic decor with a spacious layout that includes outdoor seating. The atmosphere feels relaxed and pleasant, suitable for casual meals. Pizza stands out with its thin crust and high-quality toppings, complemented by options like Peroni beer and Montepulciano wine.

Menu stays true to authentic NYC pizza with occasional changes. Pizza offers an old school New York feel and reflects authentic Italian cuisine.

Prosciutto pizza features a sweet sauce and perfect cheese. Pasta dishes like penne vodka and lasagna are rich and delicious. Pizza and pasta both stand out for their authentic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best pizza I had in my life."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, is fantastic."

"I found authentic Italian pizza with an old school New York feel."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required and you can walk in to be seated immediately.

2

Expect a wait time of over 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant does not sell pizza by the slice.

15
Pappardella image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with quaint, charming atmosphere and iconic Italian decor on the walls. Outdoor seating includes a covered area allowing pets and a pleasant open street section. The vibe is relaxed and casual, offering a comfortable space inside and out.

Dishes show authentic Italian style with great flavor. The setting feels cozy and genuine, matching the American Italian food served.

Signature dishes like Pappardella Buttera with peas and sausage and carbonara stand out. Pasta options such as gnocchi and tagliatelle use authentic Italian products like Rummo pasta and San Benedetto water.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pastas, is amazing and authentic."

"The flourless chocolate cake and tiramisu desserts are exceptional."

"I found the pastas to be authentic and perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to skip the line during busy hours.

2

The restaurant offers a fully separated and dedicated gluten-free menu.

3

The establishment does not accept walk-ins today.

16
French Roast image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers outdoor seating with heaters and umbrellas alongside live guitar music during brunch. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed and charming to very noisy, with a French cafe theme featuring authentic decor and local touches. Cocktails and coffee drinks stand out as specialty highlights.

Ambiance feels authentic with a strong French vibe. The menu offers authentic French cuisine that delivers a satisfying dining experience.

Pasta primavera stands out with fresh flavors. The menu also features burrata and tuna nicoise, scallops and risotto, and a solid tiramisu dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is great, and the service is awesome."

"The Italian Food here is fantastic, with attentive and friendly service."

"I found the French cuisine and dining experience here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy brunch hours.

2

Expect a full house during weekend brunch; arrive early.

3

Happy hour specials are available from 4-7pm on weekdays.

17
Made In New York Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a clean and spacious environment. Atmosphere feels warm and cramped inside, while outdoor seating is tight but pleasant. Crowd tends to be busy and lively, especially late at night.

Pizza features a crispy, thin crust with rich sauce and the right amount of cheese. The style is authentic New York, delivering a greasy but genuine NYC slice experience.

Slices and Sicilian pizza come with high quality dough and toppings. The burrata pizza stands out for its creamy texture. Marinara sauce has a great kick that adds bold flavor.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the authentic New York–style pizza here."

"I found the pizza to be authentic New York style."

"I thought the pizza was really delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a forced gratuity policy.

2

You get a bit of a discount if you pay cash.

3

Show up at 11:45am for freshly baked cheese pizza.

18
Motorino Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with brick oven creates authentic, wood-fired pizza experience. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxed, with dim lighting and art enhancing warmth. Outdoor seating with heaters adds comfort for cooler evenings.

Pizza comes straight out of the brick oven with a flavorful and authentic Pizza Napolitana taste, closely matching what you'd find in Napoli itself.

Pizzas feature high-quality mozzarella that stays soft, with toppings like prosciutto di Parma and clams covering the whole pie generously. The menu includes standout options like Amatriciana pizza and a rich tiramisu.

People are saying

"I thought the Neapolitan pizza here was the real thing."

"I thought the Margherita Pizza was delicious and fresh."

"I found the pizza here to be authentic, straight from the oven."

Good to know

1

The average price of pizza is $20 to $23.

2

The lunch deal is $17 for a pizza and a simple mixed green salad.

3

Delivery is quick and the pizza is fresh.

19
La Sirène image 1
French restaurant

French bistro style fills a quaint, romantic space with condensation-covered windows that evoke a Parisian feel. Outdoor seating offers ample, comfortable space contrasting with the cramped, tightly packed interior. The atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, suited for intimate dining experiences.

Dishes serve authentic homemade French flavors with no fusion or American twists. The atmosphere feels cozy and warm, matching the genuine French bistro style.

Ravioli stands out with its Sensual little French Ravioli stuffed with Comté cheese in a Truffle Cream Sauce. The tiny ravioli appetizers, especially the pear one, offer a satisfying start and could fill a whole meal.

People are saying

"The French onion soup and fries here are excellent."

"I found the food here to be truly authentic and soulful."

"The Italian food here, especially the ravioli in cream sauce, is to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on busy nights.

2

The restaurant offers 30% off glasses of wine during lunch hours.

3

La Sirène only accepts cash or AMEX, which may be inconvenient for some diners.

20
Carmine's - Upper West Side image 1
Italian restaurant

Large Italian restaurant with family-style tables packed closely together creates a noisy, lively atmosphere. High ceilings and antique Victorian decor add a spacious yet crowded feel. Popular with groups, it offers large portions meant for sharing.

Food offers authentic Italian flavors with family-style servings that are well-seasoned and flavorful. Dishes capture the essence of traditional Italian cuisine enjoyed by all.

Lasagna stands out with rich layers and hearty flavors. The carbonara offers a creamy, authentic taste that impresses.

People are saying

"The Italian food portions here are massive and perfect for sharing."

"It's the perfect dinner spot for big parties and celebrations."

"I loved the authentic Italian food, served family style."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait if you don't have a reservation on Saturdays.

3

Each dish is designed to serve 2-4 people, so come hungry.

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Central Park West Historic District, New York

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