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

Italian food for lunch

A midday break is best spent with a plate of Italian food that feels like a proper pause.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
L'Osteria image 1
L'Osteria image 2
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Italian restaurant

Small room with intimate seating and large windows creates a cozy vibe. Shrimp pasta and basil pesto shine in the Italian menu. Outdoor area offers space and a nice atmosphere for lunch, paired well with smooth cappuccinos.

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.

Lunch offers delectable dishes that satisfy groups and individuals alike. Outdoor seating adds a nice atmosphere while cappuccinos provide a smooth finish to the meal.

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."

"This Lunch Spot's food is mighty tasty and delicious."

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.

02
Masseria East image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant space with white tablecloths and modern decor offers a chic vibe. Authentic Italian dishes like mushroom risotto and cacio e pepe shine at lunch. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, and 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.

Lunch offers a sophisticated Italian culinary experience with dishes like crispy fried shoe string zucchini and cacio e pepe. Service is kind and welcoming, making the meal enjoyable from start to finish.

People are saying

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

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

"The pasta dishes at this lunch spot were superb and fantastic."

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.

03
Water & Wheat Upper East image 1
Italian restaurant

Long room with fresh pasta station creates a cozy, quiet vibe like a neighborhood dining room. Lunch specials shine with vodka sauce pasta and quick service. Italian classics like carbonara and tiramisu deliver authentic flavors and a strong finish.

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

Offers a reasonable lunch special with quick service. Pasta dishes with vodka sauce and a chicken parm lunch sandwich stand out, along with perfectly cooked octopus.

People are saying

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

"The salads here are super fresh and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has delicious pasta and sandwiches."

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.

04
Village Square Pizza - Upper East Side image 1

Small pizza spot offers square slices with creamy mozzarella and spicy salami. Cozy seating and loud music create a rustic vibe. Perfect for a quick lunch with takeout options near the museum.

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.

Good spot for lunch with options for takeout. Convenient for a quick meal before returning to the museum.

People are saying

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

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

"This lunch spot has the best pizza I've ever had."

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.

05
Home Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small American restaurant offers cozy, laid-back atmosphere with casual, relaxing decor and outside seating. The vibe is kid- and dog-friendly, creating an inviting space near cultural spots. Tables on the street add some noise, but overall energy stays pleasant and welcoming.

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.

Lunch features a mix of Italian dishes and simple, high-quality sandwiches. The Brunch Platter offers a blend of breakfast favorites for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

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

"This is a cozy lunch spot that's very family-friendly."

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.

06
Don Filippo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy, quaint dining space with classic Italian decor and a small outdoor seating area featuring a gazebo and plants. Atmosphere is lively and inviting, enhanced by Italian music and well-stocked tables with traditional seasonings. The vibe remains consistent, offering a comfortable and peaceful setting.

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.

Lunch specials offer two plain slices and a small fountain drink for $7.50, making it a cheap and tasty option. Portions are decent, with one menu item usually enough for a lunch break.

People are saying

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

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

"The pizza at this lunch spot is delicious and great."

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.

07
Antonucci Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy spot with eclectic artwork offers a refined Italian dining experience. Homemade pasta like gluten-free fettuccine shines alongside classics such as veal parmigiana. Prix fixe lunch menu delivers great value with three courses for $29.

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

Offers a prix fixe lunch menu with three courses for $29. Provides an outstanding value and a good deal for lunch.

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.

08
ZOI MEDITERRANEAN UES image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant shines with live jazz music and a cozy outdoor seating perfect for lunch. Italian dishes like truffle fettuccine and grilled Mediterranean chicken offer bold, rich flavors. Lunch specials include a four-course menu with unique spreads and great value.

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.

Lunch offers a special four-course menu with dishes like Red Lentil Soup, Zucchini Pancakes, and Grilled Mediterranean Chicken. The avocado and feta spread stands out, and the lunch specials provide great value.

People are saying

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

"Emre took great care of us at the Lunch Spot."

"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.

09
Amarena image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a beautiful interior with classic yet trendy decor and a marble bar that creates a romantic, classy atmosphere. The space feels lively and noisy, fostering a communal vibe where people often talk to neighbors, especially at the bar. Outdoor seating provides a quieter, pleasant alternative with nice 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.

Small restaurant offers lunch and dinner options. Outdoor seating fills up quickly on weekends.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the pasta at this Lunch Spot to be the best."

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.

10
Serafina Fabulous Pizza 79th (UES) image 1

Italian restaurant offers lively atmosphere with close table seating and attractive space that feels like the Mediterranean. Outdoor and rooftop seating provide heated, cozy spots with views of bustling street life. Energy stays bright and buoyant, especially in warmer months when rooftop opens.

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.

Bright and airy setting suits a casual lunch or a lunch date. Tables are available without reservation, and the spot welcomes families for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

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

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

"The pizza here is so satisfying and crave-worthy."

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.

11
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. Atmosphere tends to be loud, making conversation challenging during busy times. Group dinners fit well with long tables and reservation options.

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.

Casual lunch features pepperoni and olive pizza with attentive outdoor service. It suits a relaxed meal after visiting nearby attractions.

People are saying

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

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

"The Detroit style pizza at this Lunch Spot did not disappoint."

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.

12
Sant Ambroeus Madison image 1
Italian restaurant

Medium-sized Italian restaurant with timeless, effortlessly chic interior and impeccable decor. Atmosphere feels cozy yet cramped, blending traditional elegance with a ritualistic Milanese vibe. Features include a walk-up coffee bar and a dessert and pastry counter, enhancing 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.

Lunch features artichoke salad, Bolognese, and tenderloin tartar appetizer served with beautiful presentation. Food suits a leisurely and sophisticated midday meal.

People are saying

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

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

"The coffee and pastries at this Lunch Spot are a delight."

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.

13
Sistina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an elegant interior with artistic decor evoking Italy and old New York. Atmosphere varies from quiet and reserved to loud and crowded, often filled with older diners. Wine selections stand out as exquisite and well-curated.

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.

Lunch features delicious wines paired with meals. Meals suit family gatherings and special occasions like anniversaries.

People are saying

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

"The wine selection here is unbelievable."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the artichokes."

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.

14
Butterfield Market image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Bright, clean space with beautifully arranged displays and a cozy, elegant atmosphere creates a neighborhood feel. Outdoor seating with benches invites relaxation while enjoying the lively surroundings. Classical music adds a refined touch to the shopping experience.

Pasta and steak with chimichurri sauce appear on the menu alongside Italian staples like mozzarella cheese and focaccia-like breads. Mozzarella cheese can be aged, and breads may sometimes be stale.

Bright, clean space offers fresh produce, yummy desserts, and a variety of lunch and dinner options. Quick bites and coffee make it a solid choice for lunch.

People are saying

"This market has a spectacular selection of fresh, delicious prepared foods."

"This lunch spot has a fantastic selection of fresh, gourmet foods."

"The Italian food here was a hit, delicious and beautifully plated."

Good to know

1

Be prepared for a premium price tag that may not match the perceived value.

2

Most items are not marked with prices, so ask for details.

3

Butterfield Market offers a unique experience with high-quality food.

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Upper East Side, New York

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