New York's Italian-American heritage created some of the world's most iconic restaurants. From immigrant family trattorias to contemporary Italian, NYC offers unmatched depth and variety.
NYC Legends
Rao's
$$$$ • Harlem
If you can get a table. The most exclusive Italian in America.
Carbone
$$$$ • Greenwich Village
Red sauce elevated to fine dining. Spicy rigatoni is iconic.
L'Artusi
$$$ • West Village
Modern Italian with exceptional pasta and wine program.
Modern Italian
Via Carota
$$$ • West Village
Seasonal, vegetable-focused Italian. The carciofi is legendary.
Lilia
$$$$ • Williamsburg
Missy Robbins's pasta temple. Worth crossing the bridge.
Don Angie
$$$ • West Village
Italian-American with creative twists. The pinwheel lasagna is art.
Red Sauce Classics
Emilio's Ballato
$$ • NoHo
Old-school charm with celebrity clientele. Cash only.
Rubirosa
$$ • Nolita
Staten Island import. The tie-dye vodka pizza is famous.
John's of 12th Street
$$ • East Village
Candle-lit since 1908. Old New York atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Skip touristy Little Italy—the real Italian food is in the West Village, Brooklyn, and old-school outer borough spots.