Where to Eat Italian in NYC: A Carb-Loaded Adventure
New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of (and rent is astronomical), is also a mecca for food lovers. And when it comes to Italian cuisine, the city is absolutely smothered in options. From red-sauce joints that'll make you feel like you're in your Nonna's kitchen to trendy, upscale spots where pasta is elevated to an art form, there's something for every pasta-obsessed palate.
 |
| Where To Eat Italian In Nyc |
Red Sauce Royalty: Old School Charm
Let's start with the classics. You know, the kind of places where the red sauce is so thick you could practically use it as a hair mask. These joints are like time capsules, transporting you back to a simpler era when a big plate of spaghetti and meatballs was the ultimate comfort food. Places like Bamonte's in Brooklyn are legendary for a reason. Just be prepared to wait – and to order multiple rounds of garlic bread.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Modern Marvels: Pasta Perfected
If you're looking for something a little more avant-garde, NYC has plenty of options. Places like Lilia and Via Carota are redefining Italian cuisine with their innovative takes on classic dishes. Think handmade pasta, hyper-seasonal ingredients, and wine lists that could make a sommelier weep with joy. Just be prepared to drop some serious dough – and to make a reservation months in advance.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
Pizza Powerhouses: A Slice of Heaven
Of course, no Italian food guide would be complete without mentioning pizza. New York is home to some of the best pizza in the world, from the classic, foldable slices of the city's iconic pizzerias to the Neapolitan-style pies with their charred crusts and bubbly corniciones. Di Fara in Brooklyn is a pilgrimage site for pizza lovers, but there are countless other amazing options to explore.
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
 |
Where to Find the Best Cannoli: A Sweet Ending
No Italian meal is complete without a cannoli. And while you can find these crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese just about anywhere in the city, there are a few spots that stand out. Termini on the Upper East Side is a classic, but there are plenty of bakeries and pastry shops worth exploring.
QuickTip: Scan quickly, then go deeper where needed.
How to Eat Italian in NYC Like a Local
- How to order like a pro: Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations. Italians are passionate about their food, and they'll be happy to share their knowledge.
- How to pair wine with your meal: A good rule of thumb is to pair red wine with red meat and white wine with fish or poultry. But don't be afraid to experiment!
- How to navigate the menu: If you're overwhelmed by the choices, start with a classic like spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna. Or, ask your server for a dish that's "off the menu."
- How to eat pasta like an Italian: Twirl your fork, don't cut it. And don't be afraid to get messy.
- How to find hidden gems: Don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Some of the best Italian food in NYC can be found in unexpected places.
So there you have it, a brief (and by no means exhaustive) guide to eating Italian in NYC. Now go forth and carb load!
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
