If you travel to New York City in search of some amazing Italian food, you've traveled to the right place: a dizzying array of options greet you, all claiming to be the best, most authentic, and most acclaimed.
HomeExchange's Italian marketing manager and New York City native has simplified your decision and compiled the top five Italian restaurants in NYC. Get the insider scoop and the best Tagliatelle Verdi con Ragu' di Cinghiale Aromatizzato alle Erbe di Campagna e Tartufo the city has to offer (but good luck pronouncing it!).
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5 Best Italian Restaurants in NYC
Piccola Cucina
Make a reservation for New York City's Piccola Cucina and be prepared to fall in love with the welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and home cooking. The restaurant provides a cozy, welcoming setting in all of its four New York locations, ideal whether you're on a date or with the whole family.
The food itself is made with the freshest seasonal ingredients from local markets, and the quality is evident— no matter what you order off the menu, you won't be disappointed! We recommend the ossobuco ravioli with veal sauce, pecorino fondue, thyme and lemon.
Roberta's
If you don't want a long, fancy menu, Roberta's offers simplicity and some of the best pizza in New York City. Start off with a salumi plate and a bottle of wine to whet your appetite before enjoying Roberta's Famous Original pizza with tomato, mozzarella, parmigiano, caciocavallo, oregano, and chili. Or if you're feeling adventurous, order the Night Ripper pizza, topped with fried Japanese eggplant, mozzarella, parmigiano basil, pickled peppers, chili, breadcrumbs, and bonito.
Roberta's Brooklyn restaurant offers outdoor dining in the tiki garden for safe dining during COVID-19. For a relaxed vibe and affordable dinner, you won't be disappointed by Roberta's.
Numero 28
With five locations in New York to choose from, Numero 28 is a staple for quality Italian food, whether you're in the mood for vegan pizza or a mouthwatering plate of pasta. The casual restaurant specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, made using natural, fresh ingredients. The pizza dough is made with traditional, authentic Italian methods, making it beloved across Manhattan.
The homey ambiance of Numero 28 is sure to win you over. You'll feel just like family, welcomed for your date or fun group dinner. Make sure to save room for tiramisu, a fan favorite at Numero 28.
Panzerotti Bites
Panzerotti Bites was created by a young couple from Italy, who have perfected their family recipe to achieve panzerotti dough that is balanced and rich in flavor and Italian history. Their specialty is panzerotti, small calzones or "pizza pockets" that can be customized according to your tastes. The owners prides themselves on using the highest quality ingredients, many of them imported from Italy.
The simple, friendly ambiance features a backyard and an open kitchen, so diners can follow and customize the preparation of their own panzerotti, which are all made to order.
Norma Restaurant
Norma Restaurant specializes in Sicilian pizza and pasta dishes made with authentic ingredients and classic recipes. The chef "believes in genuine food based on updated classic recipes and the importance of using only the finest ingredients," according to the Norma Restaurant website.
The restaurant has a quaint, rustic Italian setting, with a friendly staff who will give recommendations on what to eat or drink if you're stumped. Whether you choose a scrumptious pizza or opt for a salad, make sure you start with some arancini— some of the best you'll ever taste.
