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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the Upper East Side

Italian food

You have a specific standard for Italian food that doesn't leave room for compromise.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Maruzzella image 1
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Italian restaurant

Enjoy homemade pasta like rigatoni cipullo and fresh seafood tagliatelle in a calm atmosphere with outdoor seating. Family-friendly vibe suits casual dining, while fresh burrata and house-made tiramisu complete the Italian experience.

Homemade pasta stands out with rigatoni cipullo and tagliatelle with seafood as highlights. Fresh burrata and house-made desserts like tiramisu cake add to the Italian food offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and had an authentic Italian flavor."

"The homemade pasta here is delicious and wildly outrageous."

"The food at this dinner spot is delicious and everyone loved the desserts."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a simple, flavorful menu of Italian classics.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

There is no refill for soda, so plan accordingly.

02
L'Osteria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small room with intimate seating and large windows creates a cozy vibe. Shrimp pasta and basil pesto shine in the Italian food menu. Attentive service adds to the calm, upscale atmosphere perfect for a relaxed evening.

Pasta dishes stand out with superb shrimp pasta, basil pesto, and seafood options. Desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta receive high praise. Service complements the food with attentive and great care.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Caesar salad with extra Parmesan."

"The pasta here is excellent, with a perfect creamy texture."

"I've never had a tiramisu this good; it's light and creamy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is quite small.

2

Customers have the option to pay the bill via a QR code.

3

The restaurant charges 16 dollars for sparkling water.

03
Due image 1
Northern Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space blends old world elegance with contemporary Italian touches. Guests enjoy a family-friendly yet sophisticated vibe with white linen tablecloths and soft music. Seafood pasta shines, especially Shrimp and Angel Hair, alongside classic salads like caprese.

Seafood pasta stands out with Shrimp and Angel Hair in marinara sauce. The menu features traditional pasta, seafood, and meat dishes, plus salads like tri color and caprese.

People are saying

"The desserts here are inventive and delicious."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

"The Italian food here is amazing; the staff is so attentive and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

The pricing at Due Restaurant is on the higher side.

2

The total bill for one appetizer, two pasta dishes, one dessert, and four glasses of wine was $201.

3

The restaurant offers a generous list of daily specials.

04
Heidi's House by the side of the road image 1

Small space with cozy atmosphere and soft jazz sets an intimate mood. Italian dishes like gnocchi special and mushroom lasagna shine with rich flavors. Friendly service and quality drinks like sangria keep regulars coming back.

The gnocchi special stands out as a highlight, often described as 10/10 and highly recommended. The mushroom lasagna with pesto and the bruschetta and tuna tartare also offer memorable Italian flavors.

People are saying

"I loved their roasted artichoke salad; it was delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is amazing."

"You have to try the gnocchi; it's truly wonderful Italian food."

Good to know

1

You can only reserve a table by calling ahead at the time of opening.

2

Making a reservation is highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

Same day reservations are available.

05
Rothschild TLV image 1
Kosher restaurant

Small kosher spot offers air-conditioned outdoor seating with a lively vibe and great music. Italian dishes feature fresh homemade pasta like short rib tortellini and smoky, creamy risotto with earthy mushrooms. Stylish space with table dividers adds privacy to the unique kosher dining.

Fresh, homemade pasta shines in dishes like the short rib tortellini and Holly ravioli. Risotto stands out with a smoky, creamy texture and earthy mushroom flavors, often paired with tender short ribs.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and always looks good."

"The service at these dinner spots is so patient and kind."

"The homemade pasta here is exceptional, especially the short rib tortellini."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made online and seating is almost immediate upon arrival.

2

The total cost for four people with three meals, two appetizers, one dessert, and a tip was $400.

3

Expect high prices for portion sizes; a small piece of beef costs $68.

06
Water & Wheat Upper East image 1
Italian restaurant

Long room centers on fresh pasta station with open kitchen. Cozy, quiet vibe feels like a neighborhood dining room with stained wood and soft lighting. Families and individuals enjoy authentic Italian American dishes like carbonara and tiramisu.

Fresh pasta options stand out with carbonara that ranks highly and a filling bolognese. Desserts like tiramisu and cannoli offer a strong finish.

People are saying

"The Italian food service here is fantastic, they really took care of us."

"The salads here are super fresh and flavorful."

"It's a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for conversation."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation before visiting to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The price for two people is about $100 without tip.

07
Home Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small American spot offers a cozy atmosphere with casual decor and outside seating. Italian dishes shine with eggplant parmigiana and crispy calamari. Kid- and dog-friendly vibe makes it welcoming near cultural spots.

Eggplant parmigiana stands out with perfect layers and a rich flavor. Spaghetti with meatballs tastes delicious, while calamari is crispy and salads feel light and refreshing.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

"I found the restaurant to be very cozy and warm."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, has perfectly balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferable for groups larger than three.

2

Happy hour oysters are $2 each from 12 to 5 pm, Monday to Thursday.

3

The restaurant serves brunch on Saturdays and has an all-day brunch menu on Sundays.

08
Masseria East image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant space with white tablecloths and modern decor offers a chic vibe. Authentic Italian dishes shine with mushroom risotto and fresh seafood. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, while a small bar serves an excellent wine list and espresso martinis.

Authentic Italian dishes feature pasta cooked to perfection with rich red sauces and fresh seafood like clams and mussels. Highlights include mushroom risotto, spaghetti primavera, and a tiramisu noted for its exceptional flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food service here is outstanding and attentive."

"It's an elegant and inviting space with a warm atmosphere."

"The desserts here are perfectly balanced and divine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

3

Expect a warm welcome and accommodating service for families with kids.

09
Village Square Pizza - Upper East Side image 1

Small spot buzzes with loud music and cozy stools. Pizza shines with creamy mozzarella and spicy salami on the Grandma slice. Vegan options add variety, making it a quick, fresh choice with a friendly atmosphere.

Mozzarella cheese melts luxuriously creamy, binding ingredients well. Bruschetta stands out with fresh flavors, and pizza features spicy salami and a splash of pesto on the Grandma slice.

People are saying

"This pizza is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"They offered a variety of tasty dairy-free pizza options."

"The Italian food's pepperoni pizza is richly flavored and spicy."

Good to know

1

Customers can eat on site at the counter or buy takeaway.

2

The restaurant charged a $2.99 delivery fee plus a $1 service fee.

3

The hot honey is an extra cost.

10
Altamirano's Italian Ristorante image 1

Italian restaurant shines with perfect pasta and a standout tiramisu. Cozy, upscale vibe with soft lighting and tasteful dรฉcor invites families and couples. Live music stays quiet, ensuring easy conversation amid well-spaced tables for privacy.

Pasta cooked to perfection stands out, with options like Bolognese and ink pasta customizable with fresh truffle. Desserts include a notable tiramisu, and the overall food quality is consistently high.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the shrimp scampi."

"It feels like home here, with genuinely warm and welcoming people."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and roast chicken, is outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant features a diverse menu with classic Italian dishes.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

11
Saba's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot offers kosher supervision and a friendly, lively atmosphere with limited seating. Pesto sauce pizza shines with multiple sauces layered on top. Varied vegetarian options and excellent pizza quality make it a cozy, welcoming place.

Pesto sauce pizza stands out with multiple sauces layered on top. A big variety of pizza slices and pasta dishes offers solid options, with pasta worth trying.

People are saying

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

"The pizza here is amazing and perfect for kids."

"I found the Italian food here to be the best I have had."

Good to know

1

Saba's Pizza is kosher, which is important for people who follow that diet.

2

All food at Saba's Pizza is under Kosher supervision.

3

A small grandma slice at Saba's Pizza costs almost $5.

12
Don Filippo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy space with classic Italian decor and a lively vibe. Rich carbonara and lobster ravioli shine alongside solid pasta and pizza. Outdoor seating with a gazebo adds charm to this inviting spot.

Rich carbonara and lobster ravioli stand out with strong flavors balanced well. Pasta and pizza options are solid, with dishes like veal parmesan and seafood pasta handled skillfully.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"The outdoor seating area is nicely arranged and adds value."

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

Good to know

1

Basic pizzas are $3.5 a slice and elaborate ones are $5.5.

2

The deal for 2 plain pizzas and 1 drink is $6.5.

3

Portions are decent; one menu item is enough for lunch.

13
Antonucci Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy interior with eclectic artwork sets a warm tone. Homemade pasta like gluten-free fettuccine shines alongside classics such as veal parmigiana. Bustling kitchen and booth-backed seating create a lively yet comfortable Italian dining experience.

Homemade pasta dishes like gluten-free fettuccine and carbonara stand out. Italian classics such as veal parmigiana and pappardelle Bolognese offer rich, flavorful options.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is perfectly executed and gluten-free friendly."

"It's a cozy place with a warm, intimate atmosphere."

"This lunch spot is an outstanding value for the money."

Good to know

1

Reservations are by phone only and recommended due to high demand.

2

The kitchen closes at 10:20 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

The lunch prix fixe menu is $29 for three courses, offering great value.

14
Uva Next Door image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-world Italian decor sets a cozy, upbeat tone with a quiet, covered patio perfect for dates. Soft, pillowy gnocchi and hearty pasta dishes like lamb ragu shine here. Bar seating and private cabanas offer great spots for lively conversations.

Soft, pillowy gnocchi and hearty pasta dishes stand out here. Options include homemade gluten-free pasta vodka, eggplant ricotta, meatballs, and lamb ragu, all served in generous portions.

People are saying

"I thought the truffle gnocchi was to die for."

"It's so cozy inside with the warm lighting and decor."

"I loved the kale salad here; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Martini Monday offers $4 martinis with the purchase of a main dish.

3

Happy hour runs all day, providing great deals on drinks.

15
Serafina Fabulous Pizza 79th (UES) image 1

Italian restaurant buzzes with lively atmosphere and Mediterranean vibe. Signature black truffle pasta shines alongside classic rigatoni al bolognese. Rooftop seating offers heated cozy views of bustling streets, perfect for warm months.

Black truffle pasta stands out as a signature dish, rich and flavorful. Classic Italian dishes like rigatoni al bolognese and carbonara follow traditional preparation, with pasta cooked al dente and sauces that capture authentic tastes.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and divine."

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

"It's a really nice and cozy place to escape the rain."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as there is no waiting area.

2

The restaurant is not accessible for those with mobility issues due to stairs.

3

Expect high prices that may not justify the dining experience.

16
Lusardi's image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-school Italian charm creates a warm, cozy atmosphere with well-spaced tables for quiet talks. Perfectly cooked pastas like Rigatoni Cipullo and fresh seafood such as Linguine All' Ammiraglia shine. Attentive service makes it ideal for intimate dining.

Perfectly cooked pastas like Rigatoni Cipullo and Tortelli In Salsa Tartufata stand out alongside fresh, flavorful seafood such as Linguine All' Ammiraglia and Mediterranean Sea bass. Dishes like Risotto with Black Truffles and chicken parmesan add rich variety to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, truly excellent."

"The food here is amazing, especially the seafood."

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

Good to know

1

Booking in advance is highly recommended due to the bustling dinner hours.

2

The restaurant allows ordering half portions of each dish to test before the dinner party.

3

Expect to spend a significant amount of money on your meal.

17
Uva image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers rich pesto and creamy ricotta gnocchi with black truffle. Low lighting and snug tables create a romantic vibe. A bustling bar and intimate wine room add charm for lively gatherings.

Pesto here rivals what you'd find in Italy, rich and fresh. The ricotta gnocchi shines with a creamy black truffle and chive sauce, light and luscious, making it a standout dish.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender veal."

"The truffle gnocchi here is rich, flavorful, and hard to beat."

"The Italian Food here has pillowy soft gnocchi soaked in delicious sauce."

Good to know

1

On Monday nights, Uva offers a meatball Mondays special for $48, which includes an appetizer, entree, dessert, and a glass of wine.

2

The restaurant offers $4 half size martinis on Martini Monday.

3

Uva doesnโ€™t take reservations for 4 or fewer people.

18
Marky's Caviar (Madison Ave.) image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Cozy spot with an intimate setting perfect for caviar flights and champagne. Italian dishes like lobster capellini and risotto shine, though risotto can arrive cold. Decor impresses with a strong caviar theme and elegant touches, creating an upscale yet casual vibe.

Potato and leek soup, lobster capellini pasta, and risotto feature on the menu. Risotto and leek soup sometimes arrive cold. Truffle grilled cheese may be served by mistake instead of truffle risotto.

People are saying

"Scarlett's thoughtful service made my first caviar experience unforgettable."

"I loved the potato and leek soup; it exceeded my expectations."

"I loved the caviar flights and champagne here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often overbooked, so confirm before arriving.

2

Customers cannot sample products before purchase, so choose wisely.

3

The restaurant offers a la carte options for dinner.

19
Amarena image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with gluten free pasta and vodka sauce that hits perfect spice. Interior boasts marble bar and lively vibe where guests chat freely. Outdoor seating offers a quiet retreat with pleasant music and decor.

Gluten free pasta stands out with its exceptional taste. The vodka sauce balances perfect spiciness and sauce-to-pasta ratio. Chicken parmesan features a golden crust and rich heirloom tomatoes.

People are saying

"The service for dinner spots here is amazing and makes the night feel special."

"Miguel is the soul of the place, a true hospitality magician."

"The Italian food's Spicy Vodka Pasta has unforgettable flavor and balanced heat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy after 9pm.

2

There is no dress code at the restaurant.

3

Serving sizes are small, so consider ordering sides.

20
Italian Village Pizza & Restaurant image 1

Cozy spot with authentic Italian vibe and excellent pizza taste. Penne alla vodka and linguine with clams shine for Italian food lovers. Spacious back room fits family gatherings, while chill outdoor seating adds character.

Penne alla vodka stands out with rich flavor. Linguine with clams comes al dente and well seasoned. Burrata salad offers a fresh, creamy start. Bruschetta arrives complimentary, and vegetable substitutions are easy to request.

People are saying

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

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The vodka pizza's creamy, tangy sauce is a compelling reason to visit."

Good to know

1

A chicken slice costs $5.50.

2

Specialty slices at Italian Village are $5 each.

3

They accept cards here.

21
Nicola's image 1
Italian restaurant

Sprawling dining room with wood paneling sets an old school Italian-American vibe. Veal parmesan shines as a highlight while chicken parmesan pairs well with penne in Arrabiata sauce. Dim lighting and a cozy bar create a moody tone perfect for conversation.

Veal parmesan stands out as a highlight. The chicken parmesan is solid and often paired with penne in Arrabiata sauce since it doesn't come with pasta. The pesto pasta and tiramisu also get strong mentions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the authentic Italian dishes."

"It's got that real old school Italian vibe."

"The chicken parmesan here is above average."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $40 per person for a meal, excluding drinks.

2

The restaurant does not have a cocktail menu; only wine and beer are available.

3

Customers should inquire about drink prices upfront to avoid surprises.

22
ZOI MEDITERRANEAN UES image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with live jazz music and a sexy, classy atmosphere. Outdoor seating feels cozy and private, perfect for enjoying truffle fettuccine or grilled Mediterranean chicken with smoky eggplant puree. Signature cocktails add a refined touch.

Truffle fettuccine stands out with rich flavor. Entrees like seafood pasta and branzino offer bold, tasty options. The grilled Mediterranean chicken comes with a creamy smoky eggplant mozzarella puree and Cafรฉ de Paris sauce, adding unique depth.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean dinner spots here have fresh, well-balanced flavors."

"The live music here is amazing and creates a lively atmosphere."

"I'd come back just for the amazing baklava."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

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

3

Brunch is served until 4 PM on weekends.

23
Emmy Squared Pizza: Upper East Side image 1

Urban chic space with an outdoor terrace offers a fresh vibe and artisanal pizza that stands out. Squared pan pizzas like the MVP with burrata and pesto deliver rich flavors. Loud atmosphere suits group dinners with long tables and reservations.

Squared pan pizzas prepared like focaccia stand out here. The MVP pizza with burrata, pepperoni, pesto, and vodka sauce offers rich flavors. Pesto breadsticks and gluten-free Margherita and Burrata pizzas provide solid options.

People are saying

"Our server Cesar was so attentive and asked about allergies."

"I thought the burger here was one of the best I ever had."

"The pizza here has a great crunch and is really tasty."

Good to know

1

The pizza place stops taking orders at 8:30 PM.

2

Make a reservation to avoid a wait, especially for parties of 4 or more.

3

You will experience a one-hour wait at this place during peak times.

24
Agata & Valentina image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store features fresh pasta with homemade quality and vegetable lasagna. Narrow, maze-like aisles offer top-of-the-line products in a sophisticated, crowded setting. Prices are high, matching the luxury selection and specialty focus.

Fresh pasta stands out with homemade quality and a preference over regular pasta. Vegetable lasagna and gelato also feature as notable dishes. Some fresh ravioli come with a cornstarch coating to prevent sticking, and cooking instructions on pasta labels use a small 6-point font.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found it to be a great gourmet grocery store."

"The fresh pasta here is amazing, better than regular pasta!"

Good to know

1

Prices at the deli are very high.

2

Buying produce late Sunday or early Monday means you might get low grade items.

3

The supermarket does not offer restrooms for customers.

25
Sant Ambroeus Madison image 1
Italian restaurant

Medium-sized Italian spot with timeless decor and a cozy, Milanese vibe. Enjoy rich prosciutto and standout risottos like porcini mushroom. A walk-up coffee bar and dessert counter add to the authentic experience.

Prosciutto appetizer offers rich aged ham flavor with sweet mozzarella. Pastas come well prepared and presented, including bolognese and spaghetti pomodoro e basilico. Risottos like porcini mushroom and saffron stand out, along with flavorful Ossobuco and veal Milanese.

People are saying

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

"The coffee service here is fantastic and truly stood out."

"Marco made my birthday dinner a smash!"

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Sant Ambroeus Madison.

2

A $4 surcharge applies for sharing a salad as an appetizer.

3

The burger costs $40, making it one of the pricier menu items.

26
Nightly's image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant blends downtown chic with a 60's cocktail vibe and sexy dim lighting. Enjoy lemon carbonara, creamy and bright, alongside lively atmosphere perfect for dates or friends. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed contrast to the energetic indoor space.

Lemon carbonara pasta stands out with its perfectly al dente texture and a luxuriously creamy sauce brightened by lemon. Mushroom pasta, risotto, and cacio e Pepe eggs also offer memorable Italian flavors.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere here is so lively and fun."

"The Italian Food here, especially the gnocchi, is incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because it gets packed.

2

The bar operates on a first come, first serve basis.

3

The restaurant charges $11 for mashed potatoes.

27
Famous Famiglia image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space buzzes with lively music and kids shouting, creating a casual vibe. Italian dishes shine with fresh mozzarella and classic meatballs with spaghetti. Cold air conditioning keeps the brisk atmosphere comfortable for all.

Fresh, fluffy mozzarella cheese and a solid Burrata grandma slice stand out. Classic dishes like meatballs with spaghetti appear alongside pizzas and garlic knots served with marinara sauce.

People are saying

"I thought the authentic NYC pizza slices were the best."

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

"The burrata pizza here is amazing, with fresh mozzarella."

Good to know

1

The pizza place offers a cash discount.

2

The price for 3 slices, garlic knots, and two drinks is $20.

3

The restaurant gets busy at peak times due to its location.

28
Salvoโ€™s Pizza Bar image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot offers a casual vibe with lively music and flatscreens showing soccer games. Classic New York slices share the menu with gourmet Alfredo sauce pizza and rich pasta dishes like vodka pasta. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed, flavorful experience.

Gourmet Alfredo sauce pizza stands out alongside a savory Meat Lovers slice loaded with mozzarella, tomato sauce, ground beef, pepperoni, and sausage. Pasta dishes like vodka pasta and fresh burrata complement the menu with rich flavors.

People are saying

"The pizza here is terrific and delicious."

"I found the salad to be excellent."

"I found the pizza here to be very good and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Pizza slices cost around $4 each.

2

They accept credit cards for payment.

3

A special offer includes 2 slices and a soda for $3 until 3:00 PM.

29
Sistina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with excellent shrimp and garlic pasta and strong flavors in crudo and risotto. Elegant interior blends artistic decor of Italy and old New York. Wine list is exquisite and well-curated, matching the often quiet and reserved atmosphere favored by older diners.

Pasta stands out with excellent flavor and texture, especially the shrimp and garlic pasta. Dishes like crudo, risotto, and scallops also deliver strong Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food's pastas were absolutely delicious, perfectly cooked with rich flavors."

"The wine selection here is unbelievable."

"The service here is attentive, friendly, and professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are difficult to secure on weekends; book well in advance.

2

Expect high prices, with some specials exceeding $120 per plate.

3

The restaurant has a strict 'no children' policy.

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Upper East Side, New York

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