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Italian food dinner spots in Nolita

An Italian dinner that feels like a proper evening out, not just a rushed turn at a crowded table.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Lobster ravioli stands out as a highlight, noted for its rich flavor. The rigatoni bolognese offers a classic take, while the burrata appetizer is a must-order starter.

Dinner offers amazing Italian dishes with great value specials for two. Service stands out with charming staff enhancing the experience.

People are saying

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

"Danilo, the manager, made our dinner a delightful and fun evening."

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

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.

02
Kimika image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant blends Japanese/Italian fusion with gorgeous interiors and a heated outdoor patio. Atmosphere shifts from intimate and quiet for family dinners to lively and fun for large parties. Bar seating and small event spaces create a versatile, welcoming environment.

Truffle carbonara stands out with rich flavor. Burrata surpasses some well-known spots. Rigatoni, arancini, and mortadella pizza add variety. Whole Branzino and soy butter spaghetti offer unique options.

Dinner offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere suited for family meals. Highlights include tuna tartare, soy butter bigoli, and unique desserts like matcha mochi French toast and yakult soft serve with crispy chicken skin streusel.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the truffle carbonara."

"The dinner spots here offer creative, delicious Japanese-Italian fusion."

"The arancini here are absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

You must provide your phone number for reservations, which may lead to spam.

3

Expect to pay around $200 for two without drinks.

03
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 1
Italian restaurant

Corner spot offers heated terrace and garage door windows for a chic, airy vibe. Fresh pasta shines with creamy sauces like vodka pasta. Dinner flows smoothly with quick seating and outdoor tables before the rush.

Fresh pasta comes all dente with rich, creamy sauces like the vodka pasta and hearty options like chicken parmesan. Large portions of classic desserts like tiramisu add a sweet finish.

Dinner happens smoothly with quick seating, even without reservations on weekdays. Options include outdoor tables before the rush and the food is consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I couldn't stop talking about how great the food was."

"The pasta here is perfectly cooked and the vodka sauce is amazing."

"The pasta dishes and whipped ricotta are amazing dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The brunch-only menu ends at 1:45 PM on Saturdays.

2

It is a good idea to make reservations because the place is always full.

3

You need to have a reservation for dinner or try your luck at the bar.

04
Torrisi image 1
Italian restaurant

Space blends vintage greens and warm tones with high vaulted ceilings for a luxurious feel. Italian dishes like tortellini pomodoro and Jamaican beef ragu pasta shine alongside bold cocktails. Dinner is popular, especially the chicken main, but lunch offers easier seating with a lively mix of soul and jazz music.

Tortellini pomodoro and cavatelli pasta with Jamaican beef ragu stand out as key dishes. Appetizers like prosciutto zeppole and penne with chanterelles also show strong Italian flavors.

Dinner reservations are tough to get, but walking in at lunch on a Friday opens up spots. The chicken main stands out as a favorite dish during dinner.

People are saying

"The tortellini here is probably the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

"The tortellini here is exquisite and melts in your mouth."

"The pastas at these dinner spots were the highlight of my meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations open 30 days in advance but fill instantly.

2

Getting a reservation is super hard unless you want to wait in line right before they open at 5 PM.

3

If you canโ€™t get a reservation, arrive before 5 PM to wait in line for walk-in seating at the bar.

05
Peasant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a romantic, dimly lit atmosphere with candles and dried flowers creating a cozy, intimate vibe. A downstairs wine bar provides a quiet space for conversation, while the wood-burning smoker adds unique flavor to dishes. Tables sit close together, giving a slightly cramped feel but enhancing the lively energy.

Handmade pastas cook to a perfect al dente texture with dishes like rigatoni and wild boar ragu standing out. Lobster pasta features fresh, fleshy lobster in a balanced portion with flavorful sauce.

Dinner features a private wine bar room for special occasions and a menu with mouthwatering appetizers, dinners, and desserts. Oven roasted strawberries, called 'mode', offer a perfect finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The rigatoni and carbonara are amazing Italian food."

"The wine selection here is fun and brilliant."

"The service here for dinner spots is genuinely hospitable and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly suggested for a romantic evening or special occasion.

2

Parking is available right out front on busy nights.

3

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tip and wine.

06
Rubirosa image 1
Pizza restaurant

Narrow space with a NYC vibe and tight seating creates an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere. Calm music and great air conditioning balance the energy, making it comfortable despite the crowd. Frequent door traffic can cause temperature shifts, adding to the dynamic environment.

Clam pasta comes with buttery garlic sauce and crispy fried garlic, paired with pancetta. Eggplant parmesan stands out as a perfectly executed classic. Pasta dishes show exceptional quality and flavor.

Strong choice for group dinners with smooth coordination and a reliable setting. Works well for both celebratory events and professional gatherings.

People are saying

"The pizza here is thin-crust perfection with a flavorful, crispy crust."

"The pasta here is rich, creamy, and delicious."

"The dinner spots here, especially the pizzas and pastas, are outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 1 or 2 days in advance.

2

The usual wait is 45-60 minutes, not 90+ minutes.

3

You need to be punctual as they mean it when they say you have ten minutes to get there after the text.

07
Emporio image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy decor with a backyard seating area featuring natural light from a glass panel roof. Atmosphere is chic and lively, often filled with great music that enhances the vibrant energy. Space accommodates larger groups comfortably, making it suitable for social gatherings.

Pasta dishes come out perfectly al dente with fresh ingredients creating a balanced flavor. The truffle pasta offers a rich taste despite a higher price, and seasonal specials include items like lamb loin carpaccio and lobster risotto.

Dinner offers a friendly atmosphere with engaging conversation and a setting suitable for catching up with friends or special occasions.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with thoughtfully crafted dishes."

"The pizza here has a flawless crust and premium ingredients."

"The pastas at this dinner spot are super fresh and taste homemade."

Good to know

1

A reservation is definitely needed for dinner.

2

Without a reservation, it is very difficult to get a place on the weekend.

3

Finding parking can be difficult sometimes in New York.

08
Balzem image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny Mediterranean restaurant offers romantic decor and live DJ music that fills the space loudly. Seating includes a community table and a cute outdoor patio, creating a vibey and intimate atmosphere. The place feels busy and cozy, best suited for couples rather than groups.

Pistachio spread and flatbread pizza stand out with rich flavors. Pasta dishes include a hearty seafood pasta and classic options. Desserts like dulce de leche and tiramisu offer sweet finishes.

Dinner offers flavorful dishes with delightful appetizers and a thoughtfully curated wine list. Warm ambiance and attentive service create a memorable dining experience.

People are saying

"I really loved the delicious food here."

"I highly recommend this place for dinner."

"The Italian food, especially the seafood pasta, was delicious and hearty."

Good to know

1

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

2

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for $30 per person.

3

A complimentary drink and flatbread are offered during the anniversary celebration.

09
The Wooly image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends old-world charm with modern sophistication in a beautiful, chic setting. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant option, while lively music and a top-tier sound system create an engaging atmosphere. The vibe balances cozy and stylish, suitable for romantic evenings or social gatherings.

Pesto harvest salad stands out with fresh flavors. Shrimp dishes like garlic shrimp and popcorn shrimp appear often. Burrata with tomatoes and meatless meatballs add variety to the Italian options.

Dinner feels like sitting with friends in a Wes Anderson story setting. The fries stand out as a simple delight, and group dinners work well in the spacious environment.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are excellent."

"It's so cozy inside with dim lighting and vintage decor."

"The Italian food here is killer, especially the shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 6:30 PM.

2

The happy hour menu includes sweet pea dip with pickled veggies and lavash.

3

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner.

10
Pietro Nolita image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with pink decor creates a charming atmosphere filled with good music and photo opportunities. The vibe suits lively gatherings, especially for groups seeking a visually striking setting. Drinks feature well-balanced cocktails including standout lavender and spicy margaritas.

Homemade pastas shine here, including a gluten-free option that holds authentic flavor. The cacio e pepe matches the style found in Rome, and the Chicken Meatballs come tender with a rich marinara sauce.

Italian dinner options come quickly with a welcoming and upbeat atmosphere. Staff like Ciana and Demetri keep the vibe lively during celebrations like birthdays and girls night dinners.

People are saying

"The food here is super delicious and fresh."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

"The Italian food, especially the ravioli, was amazing."

Good to know

1

You need to reserve on Resy to get a spot since seating is limited.

2

It is highly suggested to get reservations due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

If your whole party isn't there on time, your indoor dining is cancelled.

11
Little Ruby's SoHo image 1

Restaurant offers cramped interior with heated outdoor seating and a lively crowd. Music volume varies, sometimes too loud for conversation but occasionally features an amazing DJ. Seating includes stiff wooden chairs and tables close together, creating an intimate but tight space.

Shrimp pasta and the Bronte burger stand out with rich flavors. Rigatoni comes perfectly cooked with a spicy vodka sauce. Options include gluten-free pastas and healthy bowls alongside indulgent fries.

Early dinners get immediate seating, while peak times may require about a 20-minute wait. The spot serves dinner anytime, alongside breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

People are saying

"I loved the fried chicken burger; it really hit the spot."

"The shrimp pasta here is creamy without being too heavy."

"The pasta here is cooked al dente and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Ruby's does not take reservations; it is first come first serve.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for seating around noon.

3

The minimum tip selection is 20% by card.

12
19 Cleveland image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a tight, crowded space with loud music and high energy that grows rowdier later. Outdoor heated terrace and a secret downstairs speakeasy add unique layers to the experience.

Calamarati pasta offers a perfect amount of spice. The house focaccia and Jerusalem focaccia stand out, along with the burrata served with tomato jam and pita bread.

Offers an excellent Mediterranean dinner with an upbeat vibe. Dinner options stand out alongside good brunch choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, beautifully presented, and full of flavor."

"The chicken skewers at these dinner spots are perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is fantastic and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating capacity.

2

Expect a mandatory 20% gratuity added to your bill.

3

The restaurant does not accommodate dietary restrictions well.

13
Epistrophy image 1
Italian restaurant

Eclectic Italian restaurant with dim lighting, wooden bookshelves, and thoughtful art pieces creates a cozy, contemporary vibe. Music plays softly, supporting easy conversation and a relaxed mood. Seating can feel congested, but the atmosphere remains welcoming and elegant.

Classic pasta dishes shine here with in-house made pasta and sauces like sugo di carne. The Spaghetti cacio e pepe stands out, matching the quality found in Italy, alongside a well-balanced pappardelle bolognese and a notable tiramisu.

Dinner features healthy and delicious food served from breakfast through dinner. The spot works well for catching up over wine and snacks or enjoying a memorable full meal.

People are saying

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

"It's a cozy place that feels like a gorgeous home library."

"The pasta dishes here are succulent and generously seasoned."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served until 4:30 PM on weekends.

2

Live jazz band performs every Sunday night.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

14
Pasquale Jones image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers lively atmosphere with packed seating and beautiful outdoor dining. Bar area provides entertaining pizza-making views while indoor space feels energetic but often too loud for conversation.

Quality ingredients shine in the pizza and pasta dishes. The carbonara calzone and burrata with peach stand out, along with tagliatelle bolognese and pizza topped with burrata and anchovies.

Kitchen staff shows kindness and generosity while preparing delicious dinners. Service stays on point with servers checking in consistently during busy hours.

People are saying

"The pizzas here are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced Italian food."

"We finished a whole bottle of wine before our food even arrived."

"You have to try the Little Neck Clam pizza for dinner."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a personal-sized pizza.

3

A corkage fee of $65 applies if you bring your own bottle.

15
Sant Ambroeus Lafayette image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers an elegant Milanese escape with brass lighting, marble surfaces, and soft tan leather seating. Outdoor patio features private dining cabins with heaters and blankets for comfort. Atmosphere stays welcoming and cozy with a noise level that allows easy conversation.

Rich and cheesy Cacio e Pepe stands out alongside perfect fettuccine bolognese. Fresh tiramisu and iced latte complement the Italian offerings well.

Dinner offers exquisite flavors and a delicious menu that suits both romantic evenings and casual gatherings. The atmosphere works well for intimate dinners or friendly meetups.

People are saying

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

"I fell in love with this spot for coffee."

"The fresh pasta dishes at these dinner spots are worth trying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait time of over 2 hours during busy weekends.

3

The pasta bolognese costs $31, and the linguine alle vongole is $34.

16
Ketchy Shuby image 1
American restaurant

Cozy, chic space with wood paneling and a realistic fake tree creates an earthy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge downstairs offers a Tulum vibe with awesome DJ music that keeps energy lively without overwhelming noise. Crowd enjoys a mix of relaxed dining and vibrant nightlife in a stylish setting.

Truffle pasta stands out with rich flavor. Burrata pairs well with ripe figs and roasted eggplant. Rigatoni with pastured chicken and cod also feature prominently.

Dinner features incredible service and memorable meals that often exceed expectations. The atmosphere suits celebrations and casual nights out, with options to continue to clubbing after dining.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"Our server Milo made us feel at home during dinner."

"You have to try the truffle pasta; it's out of this world."

Good to know

1

The club downstairs has a cover charge of $250 per person.

2

Males must meet a $200 minimum spend requirement.

3

You need a specific ratio of guys to girls to get in.

17
Parm Mulberry Street image 1
Italian restaurant

Tiny Italian restaurant with limited indoor seating and a bar area alongside outdoor dining. Atmosphere feels intimate and lively, often enhanced by staff engaging guests with music. Known for friendly service and a cozy vibe despite the small space.

Pasta dishes come with insanely delicious sauce and options like spicy vodka rigatoni and gluten-free pasta. Sides like mozzarella sticks, pizza knots, and Italian fries complement the menu well.

Dinner features chicken parm platter with rigatoni in a spicy vodka sauce and an eggplant parmesan platter. Appetizers include pizza garlic rolls and mozzarella sticks. Prices stay very affordable.

People are saying

"I thought their Chicken Parmigiana was the best around."

"The rigatoni here is so yummy and worth every penny."

"The rigatoni and garlic bread make for great dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is only available at the bar with great deals on drinks.

2

Expect a long wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is known for its affordable prices, making it a good lunch option.

18
Estela image 1
Restaurant

Stylish space with tiny tables packed closely together creates a tight, bustling atmosphere. Warm tones and elegant lighting add an intimate vibe, though noise levels run high. Exceptional food and wine selections stand out amid the compact setting.

Dishes like squid ink risotto, scallops, and tartare stand out with rich flavors. The panna cotta offers a surprising twist with vinegar, honey, and salt, adding a light, creamy finish.

Dinner features excellent scallops, beef tartar, and fried arroz negro. Drinks include skinny margaritas, old-fashioned, and unique after-dinner options. The atmosphere suits enjoying a beautiful meal at the bar.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters and tartare, was outstanding."

"The dinner spots here feature inventive cuisine with punchy flavors."

"The ricotta dumplings were so light and chewy, I almost blanked out."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours due to popularity.

2

The reservation starts at 11:45, so plan accordingly.

3

Be prepared for a multi-course meal; 6-7 courses for two is common.

19
Fiat Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with Fiat 500 model displays and Italian-style decor creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer pleasant spots to enjoy meals in a quiet, European-inspired atmosphere. The place operates on a cash-only basis with an ATM available downstairs.

Simple, well-seasoned pasta carbonara stands out with generous portions and honest flavors. Prosciutto panini and tiramisu also feature as notable Italian dishes.

Dinner offers consistently good food with a focus on pasta dishes. The atmosphere feels like a home dinner, making it welcoming for friends and family.

People are saying

"The food at this Cafe is fresh and delicious."

"The fresh pasta here is simple, well-seasoned, and generously portioned."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious pasta dishes full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Brunch is served daily, featuring popular dishes like Eggs Benedict.

3

Breakfast is available all day, catering to various cravings.

20
Rintintin image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, dense space with a wraparound patio creates a cozy atmosphere and excellent people watching. Dim lighting and pleasant interior design set a hip, multicultural vibe. Outdoor seating includes heating lamps, supporting a comfortable experience even on cooler days.

Linguine with vongole stands out with its fresh, rich flavor. House-made focaccia and burrata add authentic Italian touches. Lamb chops and whole lobster bring hearty options alongside the avocado toast with prosciutto.

Tables set up for easy interaction make it great for group dinners. Food is good enough to want a second round late at night. The spot works well for a late weekend dinner or a casual date with drinks outside.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The linguine vongole here is surprisingly delicious."

"The food here is incredible, especially the crudo and octopus."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Brunch costs $50 per person with no alcohol included.

3

A minimum 20% tip is imposed on all bills.

21
Emilio's Ballato image 1
Italian restaurant

Small dining space with family-style Italian seating creates a lively, old school atmosphere filled with celebrity photographs and a sense of history. The environment is loud and energetic, especially in the front room, encouraging conversation and laughter. A hidden back room adds a private, exclusive feel reminiscent of classic Italian dining spots.

Pasta comes cooked al dente with rich, robust sauces and perfect seasoning. Dishes like ravioli, bolognese, and linguine vongole stand out for their fresh flavors.

Early weekday dinners have no wait and avoid the usual lines that form later. Lunch usually has no wait, unlike the busy dinner hours.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is classic, comforting, and executed with confidence."

"It felt like stepping into timeless New York with that old school Italian vibe."

"The Italian dinner spots here are authentic and comforting."

Good to know

1

Get there before 5 to avoid a long wait.

2

Tuesdays feature a recurring theme event.

3

They only accept walk-ins and donโ€™t seat you unless the entire party is present.

22
Prince Street Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, crowded pizza spot with no indoor seating and limited outdoor tables creates a bustling, vibrant atmosphere. Loud, energetic vibe matches the city's pace, with 90s dance hits adding to the mood. Separate counters for slices and whole pies streamline quick orders amid the cozy, hectic setting.

Rectangular slices come with a thick focaccia-style crust and are loaded with pepperoni. The Spicy Spring features Fra Diavolo sauce, fresh mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano on thick, fluffy dough.

Strong pizza aroma draws people in even when full. No quiet space exists for dinner, making it lively and bustling.

People are saying

"I thought this pizza had the greatest slices ever."

"This Italian food's pizza has a wonderfully flavorful, spicy kick."

"I thought the pizza here was out of this world."

Good to know

1

Prince Street Pizza only accepts cash payments.

2

There is no seating available; it's primarily a takeaway place.

3

The pizza costs $8 per slice.

23
Lombardi's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizzeria with old-world Italian decor and a bustling yet warm atmosphere. Coal-fired ovens create a crispy, unique crust on pizzas, contributing to a historic dining experience. Seating is limited, often requiring outdoor arrangements with heaters and plexiglass for crowd management.

Rustic double pepperoni pizza has a crispy, slightly charred crust, bright tomato sauce, special pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil. Classic Margherita pizza combines fresh mozzarella, vibrant tomato sauce, and basil. Breadsticks arrive steaming hot with a crunchy outside and soft inside.

Dinner service is quick with kind staff making the experience smooth. The setting offers a beautiful atmosphere that adds a special touch to American dinner meals.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and delicious."

"The Italian food's coal-fired crust had a perfect char."

"The pizza here is amazing, fresh, and perfectly charred."

Good to know

1

Lombardi's is a cash-only establishment.

2

Be prepared to wait unless you come for lunch.

3

Peak hours are typically Friday and Saturday evenings between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

24
Local 92 image 1
Cocktail bar

Mediterranean restaurant with cozy interior and local artist murals creates a unique setting. Lively music ranges from live jazz to DJ sets, energizing the space. Diverse crowd enjoys both main dining and separate speakeasy areas offering distinct vibes.

Gnocchi comes perfectly prepared with spot-on pasta and sauce. The spaghetti is always perfectly al dente with fresh, flavorful sauce. The Burrata Ravioli and Lobster Ravioli stand out as delicious options.

Dinner features excellent food and friendly service with attentive waitstaff. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed vibe for group dinners.

People are saying

"The dinner here was great, with amazing octopus and delicious scallops."

"The brunch staff here is super friendly and accommodating."

"I'd come back just for the Italian food pizza."

Good to know

1

The happy hour at Soho 92 is from 3 to 7 PM.

2

The bottomless brunch lasts three hours.

3

Expect a wait of about 92 minutes for food to arrive.

25
The Butcher's Daughter image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Small, cramped space with tight seating and backless stools creates a claustrophobic feel inside. Outdoor patio offers a cozy, sheltered streetery with fresh air and heated seating. Loud, rave-like techno music plays during the day, adding an energetic but intense atmosphere.

Zucchini pasta carbonara and orecchiette pasta stand out with rich, satisfying flavors. The bolognese draws attention from the chef, and desserts like tiramisu and pistachio brownies add a sweet finish.

Dinner features a variety of staple vegetable dishes with highlights like the spicy kale caesar salad and cauliflower steak entree. Every dish offers solid flavor and a satisfying experience.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is delicious and mind-blowing."

"The pasta and daily specials were flavorful and satisfying."

"The vegan pizza and cauliflower steak were standout dinner dishes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with lower prices on select items.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

Guests must show vaccination cards and ID upon entry.

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