Visiting New York? Check out this guide about best Italian restaurants in NYC’s Little Italy.
If you are craving a taste of Italy, but not the price tag of a plane ticket across the pond, look no further than New York’s very own Little Italy. The charming Mulberry Street exudes Italian American nostalgia. Walk past the cannoli and gelato carts, gift shops and sea of tourist provoking restaurants to avoid a disappointing plate of eggplant parmesan. There is so much divine food in Little Italy and you won’t want to waste a meal! Instead, nestle into one of these authentic hot spots:
Parm Restaurant
Looking for red sauce that would make your Italian grandmother proud? Take a break from your Soho shopping and head directly to Parm Restaurant for lunch. The melt-in-your-mouth meatballs will bring back memories of your childhood in an Italian-American family. Not Italian? That’s okay too.
You’ll feel like one as you dine in this cozy spot that exudes Italian-American culture. Don’t leave without a taste of their famous ice cream cake. Quick tip: This hot Italian spot does not accept reservations and can get quite busy, especially at dinner. Be sure to arrive early and prepared to wait. Don’t worry, there’s a bar.
248 Mulberry Street
(Between Prince and Spring)
New York, NY 10012
202-993-7189
Rubirosa Restaurant
There is a special place in all our hearts for an epic slice of pizza. Look no further than Rubirosa for their secret family recipe. You’ll find signs all over town claiming to have the best slice. Don’t buy it. Rubirosa has, without a doubt, one of the best pies in New York City.
Try this: Vodka Pizza. It is the crown jewel of Rubirosa and our mouths of watering at the thought of it. It has a delightfully thin crust, topped with vodka sauce and fresh mozzarella. Need we say more?
235 Mulberry Street
(Between Prince and Spring)
New York, NY 10012
212-965-0500
Pasquale Jones
You could likely find Pasquale Jones just by using your nose. The wood-fired ovens entice people off the streets far better than any Little Italy haggler. Pasquale Jones isn’t just a hit in Little Italy, but in all of New York. The intimate setting feels upscale without being stuffy.
The pizza is a standout, sure, but Pasquale Jones has so much more to offer. (But seriously, don’t leave without trying the Little Neck Clam pie). The Rigatoni will knock your socks off. If you’re starved, try the pork shank for two. To top it all off, the staff is accommodating and kind.
187 Mulberry Street
(at Kenmare Street)
New York, NY 10012
917-472-7230
Emilio’s Ballato
Are you fancy? Do you love a room warmly lit with chandeliers where Barack Obama , Billy Joel and Lenny Kravitz dine? Then Emilio’s Ballato is the place for you.
The food preparation is simple, but exquisite. Here, you can find all the Italian American classics. From rigatoni alla Bolognese to baked shrimp, there is no such thing as a wrong choice here. Keep your eyes peeled, you might even have a celebrity siting.
55 E. Houston Street
(near Mott Street)
New York, NY 10012
212-274-8881
Please share your best Italian restaurants in NYC’s Little Italy below or check out our NYC restaurants page for more food ideas!