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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Italian food spots in Midtown East

The craving for Italian food is usually a craving for something familiar and grounding.

Based on 874 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Giulietta image 1
Giulietta image 2
Giulietta image 3
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Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends modern cozy design with a lively vibe. Pasta shines, especially tagliatelle bolognese and lobster pasta. Background music energizes, making it great for many occasions.

Pasta cooked to perfection stands out, especially the tagliatelle bolognese and rigatoni. Dishes like lobster pasta and homemade gluten free pasta offer flavorful options for different tastes.

People are saying

"The pasta here is delicious, especially the tagliatelle with ragรน."

"Angelo made me amazing cocktails based on my preferences."

"I loved the lemon tart for dessert."

Good to know

1

Giulietta offers a beautiful Italian menu with a variety of options.

2

The prices at Giulietta are reasonable for the quality of food.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

02
Il Tinello image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers hand-rolled pasta and a perfectly seared veal chop in a cozy, candlelit setting. Guests enjoy attentive service and a tree-lined street view that adds calm charm to the urban vibe.

Hand-rolled pasta and perfectly seared veal chop showcase meticulous craftsmanship with fresh ingredients. Dishes like spicy penne vodka, veal parmigiana, and zabaglione highlight a range of fresh, well-presented Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is flavorful and comforting."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome at dinner."

"You have to try the Caesar salad made right at the table."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended, especially for special evenings.

2

The menu features a variety of classic and innovative Italian dishes.

3

Dessert is highly recommended and considered a must-try.

03
DelBianco Italian Restaurant image 1

Chic blend of classic and modern styles creates an intimate, warm atmosphere with soft lighting and stylish decor. Bold flavors shine in black ink pasta and oxtail pasta, while quality steaks satisfy meat lovers. Perfect for special occasions and dates, it balances elegance and relaxation.

Black ink pasta with seafood stands out with its bold flavor. Zucchini spaghetti offers a to the teeth texture and rich taste. Oxtail pasta, steaks, and meatballs deliver top class Italian dishes. Tiramisu is light with a balanced richness, though less boozy than usual.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is cooked to perfection."

"The steak's char was superb and it was cooked perfectly medium-rare."

"The desserts here are absolutely a must try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant offers a prix fixe lunch with a changing menu.

3

Expect generous portion sizes for all dishes.

04
La Gioconda image 1
Italian restaurant

Small dining room with brick walls and floor-to-ceiling windows offers a cozy vibe. Pasta dishes like perfect Carbonara and lobster shellfish pasta showcase authentic Italian flavors. Friendly staff and a slicer machine for prosciutto highlight quality and craftsmanship.

Pasta dishes stand out with perfect Carbonara and lobster shellfish pasta that taste authentic. A slicer machine for prosciutto signals serious Italian craftsmanship and quality.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, inviting vibe."

"I found the Tiramisu to be very good and classic."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be booked in advance due to potential busyness.

2

The restaurant offers a $21 lunch special that is a great deal.

3

They make 'family size' versions of several pastas and entrees, which are a tremendous value.

05
Osteria Delbianco image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant boasts an upscale atmosphere with dark paneled walls and romantic lighting. Lasagna offers incredible flavor with rich layers, while burrata with ripe tomatoes makes a delicious start. Seating suits both people watching and quiet dining, blending cozy elegance.

Lasagna stands out with its incredible flavor and rich layers. Burrata with ripe tomatoes offers a simple yet delicious start, while swordfish and pasta dishes deliver perfectly cooked meals.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and creative."

"The Italian food, especially the lasagna, was ridiculously good."

"This is a wonderful lunch spot with truly Italian food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required as the restaurant fills up quickly, even on weekdays.

2

The restaurant charges a fixed 20% tip on all bills without prior notice.

3

There is no price list for wines by the glass, making ordering unclear.

06
Norma Turtle Bay image 1
Italian restaurant

Narrow space with rustic charm offers a cozy, homey Italian feel. Soft jazz music adds a warm vibe. Authentic Sicilian dishes shine with flavorful pasta and unique pizzas like mortadella.

Pasta stands out with flavorful, perfectly cooked dishes that match Sicilian quality. The pizza offers unique flavors, including a notable mortadella option, alongside lamb ragu and arancini.

People are saying

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

"I loved the homemade desserts; they were delicious."

"The Arancini here are the best Iโ€™ve had outside of Italy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for groups of 15 or more with a fixed menu.

2

The fixed menu costs $60 per person, but can be negotiated down.

3

Payment is accepted by card only in groups of three.

07
My Pie Pizzeria Romana image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with compact seating and strong air conditioning creates a vibrant, slightly chilly vibe. Italian music adds to the friendly atmosphere. Pizza offers fresh dough and ample mozzarella with options like Bufala and margherita, satisfying quick bites with variety.

Pizza features fresh dough, ample mozzarella, and good tomato sauce. Varieties include Bufala mozzarella, margherita, pesto, and half chicken alfredo half buffalo chicken. Staff accommodate preferences like omitting Pecorino Romano.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I thought this was some of the best Italian food I had in the city."

"I loved the authentic Roman-style pizza with its light, airy crust."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait about 5 minutes for pizza if you arrive after 11:30 AM.

2

The pizza place does not have a bathroom for customer use.

3

The cost for 8 slices of pizza and 4 waters is $60.

08
Turtle Bay Tavern image 1

Elevated sports bar offers TV view from every seat and a laid-back vibe perfect for groups and dates. Bold spicy rigatoni and fresh tuna tartare deliver a sharp Italian meal. Curated music and live shows create a vibrant, immersive atmosphere.

Spicy rigatoni stands out with its bold flavor and heat. Tuna tartare offers a fresh, sharp contrast. Both dishes pair well for a solid Italian meal.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and provide great service."

"I thought the burger here was the best in NYC."

"The Italian Food, especially the spicy rigatoni, was exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

The tavern can accommodate large groups without feeling crowded.

3

Customers should arrive early to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

09
Point Seven image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with crab spaghetti and oyster linguine in a stylish, renovated space featuring flying fish lighting and a gold shell wall. Perfect for business meals or after-work drinks, it offers good table spacing and a welcoming vibe despite loud music.

Seafood shines in dishes like crab spaghetti with sea urchin and oyster linguine. Homemade focaccia bread and fish fritters add solid starters alongside oysters, shrimp & grits, and octopus.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and felt made just for me."

"Chef Becker's hospitality made our Italian food experience unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on Fridays and Mondays.

2

Reservations are suggested, especially for pre-theater dinner between 5 PM and 7 PM.

3

Drinks are half price only for bar food during happy hour.

10
LaVista Pizza (2nd Ave) image 1
Pizza restaurant

Brightly lit pizzeria offers seasoned mozzarella and standout dishes like chicken parmigiana and tiramisu. Friendly vibe with garage door seating creates an open, welcoming space. Outdoor seating faces a noisy street, which can affect the atmosphere.

Cheese comes seasoned and made of seasoned mozzarella, which is rare here. Pasta dishes like mushroom cream sauce and penne with vodka sauce take a bit but are worth it. Chicken parmigiana and tiramisu also stand out.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in NYC."

"The vegan pizza here is the best I've ever had."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The price for one plain slice is $3.50.

2

Ordering ahead of time is recommended for a better experience.

3

They have halal options available.

11
La Pizza Italia image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, cozy pizza shop shines with flame-based pizza-making and burrata basil pizza. Pasta dishes like rigatoni alla vodka come with BOGO deals. Lively vibe fueled by Algerian music and joyful staff makes it welcoming but noisy.

Burrata basil pizza and rigatoni alla vodka stand out for their rich flavors. Pasta dishes come with BOGO deals, making it easy to try multiple plates without spending much.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was off the charts delicious."

"I thought the pasta here was amazing."

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

Good to know

1

They are open at 2:30am for late night pizza.

2

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers and drinks.

3

The lunch special includes 2 slices and soda for $6.

12
Cafe Luce - Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar image 1

Cozy trattoria offers intimate seating and warm lighting perfect for dates. Enjoy vodka pasta and Pollo Parmigiana with an extensive wine list. Live jazz and vintage tunes create a lively atmosphere that blends well with classic desserts and bright limoncello.

Vodka pasta stands out with rich flavors. The Pollo Parmigiana pairs well, offering a hearty Italian classic. Limoncello provides a bright, citrusy finish.

People are saying

"I found the homemade pasta to be fresh and delicious."

"It's a lovely, cozy spot with a nice atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers $10 wine from 4pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music starts after 6pm on select days.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

13
Sofia Wine Bar image 1

Wine bar boasts an intimate upstairs and a beautiful back patio for varied vibes. Italian dishes shine with mushroom truffle pasta and award-winning tiramisu. Cocktails and Italian wines keep the mood lively and inviting.

Pasta purse with mushroom truffle and beggars purse bolognese stand out among the pasta dishes. The award-winning tiramisu and truffle burrata pizza add strong dessert and pizza options.

People are saying

"It's such a cozy wine bar with a cool vibe."

"It's a fantastic spot for a romantic date night."

"This Italian food spot is so cozy and has great vibes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers late night dining until 10 PM.

2

Expect a wait during peak times, especially on weekends.

3

A 20% tip is automatically added to your bill.

14
Osteria Laguna image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious Italian spot offers homemade al dente pasta like penne alla vodka and gnocchi with shrimp. Cozy indoor areas suit romantic dinners, while the lively patio features loud live music. Chic setting includes window seats and outdoor options for a classy vibe.

Homemade Al dente pasta stands out with dishes like penne alla vodka and gnocchi with shrimp. Risottos, including squid ink with scallops, and flavorful appetizers like burrata with prosciutto and fig spread complement the menu. Desserts such as creamy tiramisu finish the meal well.

People are saying

"The housemade pasta dishes here are so fresh and well prepared."

"The risotto was creamy, delicious, and cooked to perfection."

"The service for dinner spots was attentive and wonderful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

A meal consisting of 2 soups, 2 pastas, 1 glass of wine, and 1 beer costs U$ 120 with tip.

3

A half a glass of wine was $15.

15
La Pecora Bianca Midtown image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious modern interior and heated outdoor seating create an energetic vibe with lively noise and good music. Handmade pastas like cacio e pepe bucatini and fresh burrata with apples shine. Wine and cocktails impress, especially well-made negronis and excellent Pinot Gris.

Handmade pastas shine with cacio e pepe bucatini and campanelle standing out. Burrata pairs with apples and toasted hazelnuts for a fresh twist. Desserts like tiramisu serve well for sharing.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the chicken parmesan, is satisfying and worth it."

"You have to try the Tiramisu; it's massive and amazing."

"Our server Alex made our dinner experience superb and fun."

Good to know

1

No need to make a reservation for lunch.

2

It is recommended to get a reservation for dinner.

3

There is a special during weekend brunch where if you purchase an entree, you get a complimentary drink.

16
La Piazza New York image 1
Italian restaurant

Murano chandeliers and a mask wall create an elegant, cozy setting with live jazz music adding charm. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with amazing vodka sauce and incredible pasta and pizza. The vibe is warm and inviting, perfect for casual meals or special occasions.

Authentic Italian cuisine shines with amazing vodka sauce and incredible pasta and pizza served in a warm, inviting setting.

People are saying

"The food here tastes like authentic Italian roots."

"The Italian food here is served with such friendly and attentive service."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and elegant."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Thursday evening, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

3

The $10 Aperol Spritz is available during happy hour on Sundays.

17
THE GRILL image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Luxurious midcentury steakhouse offers golden opulence and stunning architecture for an exclusive vibe. Italian dishes shine with Pasta a la Presse, made table-side with a manual grinder for rich sauce. Large private tables enhance the refined, relaxed dining experience.

Pasta a la Presse stands out with its table-side preparation using a manual grinder to press fresh jus from bones and vegetables. This method creates a rich, sinfully delicious sauce that defines the dish.

People are saying

"The prime rib's flavor was off the charts, cooked perfectly."

"The pasta ร  la presse was exquisite, rich, and silky."

"The pasta ร  la presse was exquisite, rich, and silky."

Good to know

1

You should consider making a reservation if you want to dine here.

2

Prices are high, such as $90 for a 20 oz. NY Strip Steak.

3

There are only two bathrooms, which can cause long wait times.

18
Fresco by Scotto image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian dishes like Pappardelle Bolognese shine with rich flavors and generous portions. Outdoor dining under Edison bulbs feels festive, like a wedding party. Upstairs offers a quiet private room perfect for groups, while the main floor's phenomenal DJ keeps energy high and invites dancing.

Pappardelle Bolognese stands out with large, well-made pasta portions. The Clam Linguine and osso buco also deliver solid, flavorful Italian dishes.

People are saying

"The desserts here are delicious and a must-try."

"The DJ played amazing music and created a lively atmosphere."

"The Italian food here is fantastic, especially the huge meatballs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at the restaurant.

2

Expect to spend over $100 per guest for a meal.

3

Customers are asked to leave after 2 hours of dining.

19
Serafina 777 Third Avenue image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with authentic dishes like Lobster Ravioli and Lasagna Al Forno. Chic decor and a fabulous outdoor patio create a warm vibe for both business and casual meals. Start with fresh bruschetta and end on a sweet note with Il Tiramisu topped with berries.

Plates like prosciutto/burrata and bruschetta start the meal with fresh, rich flavors. Entrees include Lobster Ravioli, Lasagna Al Forno, and Spaghetti Pomodoro with Basilico. The Il Tiramisu with fresh berries serves as a light, fruity dessert.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has perfectly cooked Italian dishes with fantastic flavor."

"I think the burgers here are tied for the best."

"The spaghetti cacio e pepe here is wonderfully cooked and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for food as the restaurant is still adjusting to operations.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality, with appetizers starting at $16.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located near several hotels.

20
Bucatini image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant interior creates a cozy, intimate vibe perfect for unhurried evenings and date nights. Handmade pasta dishes like ink fettuccine and ragu-coated pappardelle showcase authentic Italian flavors. Superb cocktails add a refined touch to the Tuscany-inspired setting.

Handmade pasta stands out with dishes like ink fettuccine with shrimp and ravioli delivering rich flavors. Signature items such as squid ink risotto, ragu-coated pappardelle, and arancini highlight the menu's Italian roots.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the bucatini, is the best I've ever eaten."

"The service here is so classy, with attentive staff always filling your cup."

"The tiramisu here is divine and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The menu accommodates dairy allergies with several options available.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

3

Bucatini is suitable for private events and gatherings.

21
Barolo East image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious dining rooms with dim lighting set an elegant mood. Pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese shine alongside classic desserts such as tiramisu. A beautiful garden and lively gorgeous bar offer varied vibes from romantic to festive.

Pasta options include any type requested, even off-menu. The spaghetti Bolognese and gnocchi stand out as especially good. Tiramisu and bruschetta also receive strong praise.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and homemade, truly delicious Italian food."

"The wine here is excellent, complementing the authentic Italian dishes."

"The service at these dinner spots is phenomenal and made the evening enjoyable."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a total cost of around $300 for two people with wine.

3

The restaurant closes at 11pm, so arrive early to enjoy your meal.

22
Amata image 1
Italian restaurant

Enjoy authentic Italian with standout pasta dishes like lobster tortellini and seafood spaghetti. The place offers a casual yet special atmosphere where guests are jovial and kind. Gluten-free options and complimentary biscotti add thoughtful touches.

Pasta dishes stand out with options like gnocchi with pesto, lobster tortellini in vodka sauce, and seafood spaghetti. The menu also features pork chop, lasagna, pappardelle, and well-prepared steak alongside good soups, salads, and calamari.

People are saying

"I found the dinner spots here to be spectacular and amazing."

"The pasta dishes here are excellent and spectacular."

"The pasta dishes here are spectacular and you can't go wrong."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at the restaurant.

2

During restaurant week, they offer a special menu with two choices for each course.

3

Happy hour features drink specials that are worth checking out.

23
Abaita - Kosher Dairy image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small space with open kitchen creates lively vibe but can feel cramped. Homemade pasta like black fettuccine shines alongside fresh salads and pizzas. Outdoor seating offers a cozy modern feel, balancing the indoor buzz.

Homemade pasta stands out with perfectly al-dente fettuccine and black fettuccine options. Salads like the radicchio with endives and pecorino complement dishes such as artichoke and spinach pizzas, cacio pepe, and risotto.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta and pizza here are phenomenal."

"I thought the Kosher food here was the best in the city."

"It's a super cozy spot with a warm, homey feel."

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.

24
La Cava image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale American spot with a New York bar vibe and warm, inviting atmosphere. Enjoy Penne a la vodka and fresh appetizers like prosciutto with burrata. Outdoor seating adds a casual yet refined touch to the experience.

Penne a la vodka stands out as a popular dish here. Appetizers include prosciutto with burrata and salmon tartar, alongside nice bruschetta. Pasta Ala vodka also gets good marks.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for date nights with a lively atmosphere."

"It's a warm, welcoming place that feels solo friendly."

"The Italian food, especially the vodka pasta, is really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM with $25 all-you-can-drink mimosas.

2

Brunch is available on Saturday and Sunday with bottomless drinks for $25.

3

Call to confirm reservations instead of relying on apps.

25
Santi image 1
Italian restaurant

Space blends modern design with warm lighting and plush furniture for an intimate vibe. Superb crab pasta shines alongside homemade focaccia and wagyu dishes. A lively cocktail bar with large windows adds energy, perfect for both upscale dining and cozy celebrations.

Superb pastas stand out with perfect texture and delicious crab. Homemade focaccia bread with butter and olive oil complements dishes like crudos, tortellini, and wagyu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly executed."

"Every dish I tried at this dinner spot was creative and outstanding."

"The pasta here is the best Italian food I've had in a while."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table at peak times.

2

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

Thereโ€™s a $15 per person cake fee for bringing your own dessert.

26
Palladinoโ€™s Steak & Seafood image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space offers stunning views over Grand Central Station and a beautiful bar. Classic Italian dishes like pasta and meatballs shine alongside comforting mac & cheese. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth, perfect for casual dinners or dates.

Classic dishes like pasta and meatball stand out on the menu. Mac & cheese also appears as a comforting option alongside these Italian-inspired choices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and knowledgeable service."

"Jesus's professional attention made our Italian food experience memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand shortly after opening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments only.

27
Fasano Restaurant New York image 1

Elegant dining space blends modern decor with an old-New York vibe. Live jazz music adds warmth and sophistication. Italian dishes like lobster risotto and creamy Tiramisu highlight rich flavors.

Pasta and risotto stand out with rich, flavorful dishes like lobster risotto and gnocchi. Desserts include a notably creamy Tiramisu. Main courses such as ossobuco and brazino offer classic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was outstanding and full of flavor."

"The service here is so classy, attentive without being overbearing."

"The jazz bar upstairs is the perfect way to end the night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are confirmed 24 hours in advance, which is unusual for most venues.

2

The kitchen closes at 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect prices around $100 per person for entrees and desserts, excluding drinks.

28
Il Monello image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian dishes shine with heavenly tiramisu and authentic Cacio E Pepe. Cozy space features sparkly white tablecloths and a small bar for distinct dining and drinking. Classic 50s American tunes add a warm, inviting vibe.

Tiramisu stands out as a highlight, often described as heavenly and among the best in New York. The Chicken Parmesan impresses with rich flavor, while the Cacio E Pepe captures the authentic taste of Rome.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The dinner spots here have fantastic food and excellent seafood."

"You have to try the baked clams; they're a must-try."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect to pay around $49 for meatballs and spaghetti.

3

Dress code is smart casual; evening dress is preferred for a nicer experience.

29
Da Raffaele image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with fresh pasta like gnocchi and tagliatelle. Guests enjoy authentic Italian flavors such as beef ragu and tiramisu in an intimate setting perfect for easy conversation.

Fresh pasta like gnocchi and tagliatelle come with seasoned sauces that taste homemade. Dishes such as risotto, beef ragu, and tiramisu highlight authentic Italian flavors with a personal touch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and varied."

"The handmade pasta here is cooked perfectly."

"Chef Raffaele makes it feel intimate by greeting guests like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table.

2

Prices on the menu differ from those listed online.

3

Expect to wait for a table during peak hours.

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