BEST NEW YORK CITY ITALIAN
"In an Italian restaurant, you don’t just order food; you embark on a delicious romance that inevitably ends in a passionate embrace with dessert!"
Top 10 Independently Owned Italian Restaurants to Visit in New York City
Buon Appetito, food lovers! If you find yourself wandering the streets of New York City and craving a deliciously comforting plate of pasta, you've hit the culinary jackpot. The city is packed with independently owned Italian restaurants that serve everything from classic marinara to innovative fusion dishes. Let’s take a delightful stroll through these charming eateries that are sure to make your taste buds do the Tarantella!
Carbone
Address: 181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
Average Cost: $50-$100 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 11 PM
Carbone is the quintessential New York Italian dining experience, serving up classic dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance here is straight out of a classic mob movie, with red leather banquettes and mood lighting. You can’t visit without indulging in their signature spicy rigatoni vodka—it’s as legendary as the restaurant itself!
L'Artusi
Address: 228 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Average Cost: $60-$120 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 10 PM
Known for its impeccable service and chic decor, L'Artusi delights diners with homemade pastas and inventive dishes. The ricotta gnocchi is fluffy perfection, and the olive oil cake for dessert will leave you dreaming about your next visit. Don’t forget to grab a glass of their exceptional wine—cheers to la dolce vita!
Osteria Morini
Address: 218 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
Average Cost: $30-$60 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 10 PM
Located by the East River, Osteria Morini is all about rustic Italian fare. With a focus on the Emilia-Romagna region, they serve delicious homemade pastas and seasonal dishes. Grab a seat on the patio for a lovely view and tuck into their signature ragu or tortellini—perfection on a plate!
Il Buco
Address: 47 Bond St, New York, NY 10012
Average Cost: $50-$90 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 10 PM
Nestled in the NoHo neighborhood, Il Buco exudes a cozy, rustic charm that feels like stepping into an Italian villa. Known for its seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, their wood-roasted dishes are divine. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a hearty pasta while sharing a bottle of wine with friends—it’s a meal worth savoring!
Pasta Flyer
Address: 124 1st Ave, New York, NY 10009
Average Cost: $15-$30 per person
Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM
For a quick and delicious meal, Pasta Flyer is the perfect spot! This fast-casual joint allows you to customize your pasta orders with various sauces and toppings. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but for culinary delights. Grab a seat, and enjoy your pasta creation with a side of yummy garlic bread!
Via Carota
Address: 238 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Average Cost: $40-$80 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 11 PM
Via Carota pays homage to the rustic cooking of Italy with a seasonal menu that evolves with the bounties of each harvest. This charming West Village eatery is warm and inviting, making it ideal for cozy dinners. The cacio e pepe here is a simple yet sumptuous dish that proves that less is indeed more!
Rezdôra
Address: 27 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003
Average Cost: $40-$80 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 10 PM
Rezdôra is where you’ll find the true spirit of Italian nonna cooking! This Michelin-starred spot specializes in handmade pasta and specializes in Emilia-Romagna flavors. Their lasagna verde is blissful, and the ever-changing dessert menu is the cherry on top. Prepare to be transported straight to Italy!
Cacio e Vino
Address: 8 W 1st St, New York, NY 10003
Average Cost: $30-$70 per person
Hours: 5 PM - 10 PM
For a casual yet authentic Italian dining experience, Cacio e Vino is a must-visit! This cozy little spot in the East Village serves deliciously comforting classics, including their namesake dish, cacio e pepe. With a great selection of Italian wines, you’re sure to enjoy a delightful evening of food and fun!