Going to New York anytime soon? If so, you’re mostly likely going to explore some of the tastiest food in the country. New York itself just happens to be known for its diverse cultural landscape with many styles of food available from street vendors to fine dining restaurants. In lower Manhattan, be sure to check out Little Italy along Mulberry Street. This famous strip is home to countless cafes, bakeries, and yummy restaurants with delicious Italian dishes, pastries, and gourmet food. Check out the best Italian restaurants in Little Italy, NYC.
1. Zia Maria Little Italy
Location: 138 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
A family-owned pizzeria, Zia Maria prides itself on its authentic homemade Italian food with fresh ingredients straight from Italy. Walking in, you are greeted with the welcoming vibes accompanied by the contemporary design of the restaurant itself. Be prepared to indulge in some amazing food as the menu offers a variety of Italian favorites like Chicken Marsala, Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Piccata, and plenty of choices of Antipasti. For those who crave pizza, the menu does not disappoint with mouthwatering Cheese Pizza, Margherita, Pepperoni, Meat lovers and more. Before you leave check out their dessert options like a New York Cheesecake (our fave!), Nutella Pizza with Fresh Fruit, and traditional cannoli’s.
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2. Jose Luis Little Italy
Location: 115 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
Casual and authentically New York, Jose Luis Little Italy brings cozy and comfy vibes to visitors and locals alike. Known for their Tapas menu, you will find the tastiest bites on a budget like the Bruschetta, Burrata Caprese, Eggplant Parmesan, and Cheesy Rice Balls. For their pasta items, try their Lasagna Bolognese, Alfredo, and Frutti Di Mare which features spaghetti, calamari, mussels, shrimp and tomato sauce. Choices of delicious salads, paellas and other entrees are also available to order. This is the perfect place to take in the Italian and Mediterranean-like dishes.
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3. Da Nico Ristorante
Location: 164 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
Family owned since 1993, Da Nico Ristorante is hands down one of the best Italian restaurants in Little Italy, NYC. It’s been a popular restaurant for New Yorkers since its inception and has served many famous New Yorkers including members of the Yankees. With authentic Italian meals, the restaurant’s pizzas are even cooked inside coal fired ovens. They use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients to prepare classic dishes like Eggplant Parmigiana, Veal Marsala, Shrimp Scampi, Lasagna, and Penne Alfredo. We’re a fan of appetizers, so we’re opting for Mini Calzones, Eggplant Rollatini, and Stuffed Mushrooms. They also have a stunning garden patio for a laid back lunch.
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4. Il Cortile Ristorante
Location: 125 Mulberry St, #4603, New York, NY 10013
Family owned and operated since 1975, Il Cortile Ristorante is dedicated to providing some of the finest Italian dishes in New York City. The restaurant offers a stunning variety of wine and cocktail options, and a multi-room venue for those who need to book events for parties. On their menu, Il Cortile has amazing choices for appetizers. Try their Fried Mozzarella, Eggplant Rollatini, Fried Baby Calamari or Baked Clams. For their main courses, you can’t leave disappointed with the Cheese Ravioli, Penne Creamy Vodka, and Spaghetti Con Marinara. A charming restaurant that will transport you straight to Italy, be sure to add this stop to your restaurant itinerary.
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5. Paesano of Mulberry Street
Location: 136 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
This is for our travelers on a budget. With an affordable menu with an assortment of appetizers and entrees, Paesano of Mulberry Street offers dishes for just about every Italian food lover in New York City. Be sure to check out their famous Stuffed Artichokes and Garlic Bread with Cheese. For lunch you need to try the Lasagna and Cheese Ravioli and Gnocchi Pesto. If you’re hanging around the later hours, the dinner menu offers Fettuccini Alfredo, Pasta Primavera, Chicken Primavera and plenty of other pasta dishes along with salads and seafood options.
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