The Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Manhattan [Updated 2024]

Having grown up in the heart of Manhattan, I have had the privilege of exploring numerous culinary establishments, particularly those dedicated to the art of Italian cuisine. With great enthusiasm, I can proudly share my expertise after having reviewed an impressive total of 12 Italian restaurants across the borough.

From charming trattorias tucked away in Greenwich Village to elegant Michelin-starred establishments in Midtown, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through Manhattan's finest and most authentic Italian dining experiences. So, whether you're craving a hearty plate of pasta or a mouthwatering slice of pizza, join me on this culinary journey as we uncover the absolute best Italian restaurants that the island of Manhattan has to offer.

Patsy's Italian Restaurant

Highlights
Famous among celebrities
Fast lunch service
Tasty pesto sauce
Exquisite and historic
Excellent service

Walking into Patsy's Italian Restaurant, I was immediately struck by its exquisite and historic ambiance. The restaurant has a charming old-world charm that transports you to a different era. As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but be in awe of the famous celebrity photos adorning the walls – a testament to its long-standing presence in the Italian dining scene.

The service at Patsy's was nothing short of excellent. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure my dining experience was top-notch. The fast lunch service was perfect for a quick bite during a busy workday.

Now, let's talk about the food. Patsy's is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. I had the pleasure of trying their pesto sauce, and it was truly a taste sensation. The flavors were rich, and the pesto had just the right amount of basil and garlic, leaving me wanting more.

What sets Patsy's apart from the rest is its commitment to quality. Every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. From the homemade pasta to the fresh ingredients, everything was simply outstanding.

In conclusion, Patsy's Italian Restaurant is a gem in Manhattan's dining scene. With its celebrity following, fast service, and mouth-watering pesto sauce, it's no wonder why this restaurant has stood the test of time. If you're looking for a truly exceptional Italian dining experience, Patsy's is the place to be.

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Da Andrea Greenwich Village

Highlights
Stunning atmosphere
Cozy and inviting
Delicious fresh pasta
Friendly and attentive service
Delicious mussels and lobster Benedict

Let me start by saying that Da Andrea Greenwich Village is a hidden gem among the bustling streets of Manhattan. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a stunning atmosphere that immediately transported me to the heart of Italy. The restaurant's warm and cozy ambiance made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! It was nothing short of exceptional. The restaurant boasts a menu filled with delicious fresh pasta dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more. From the perfect al dente texture to the rich and savory sauces, every dish was a masterpiece.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The service at Da Andrea Greenwich Village was truly outstanding. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of perfection. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided great recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the standout dishes. The mussels and lobster Benedict was a true showstopper. The combination of tender mussels, succulent lobster, and perfectly poached eggs was a culinary delight. I couldn't resist savoring every bite.

Overall, Da Andrea Greenwich Village exceeded my expectations in every aspect. From the stunning atmosphere to the cozy ambiance, the delicious fresh pasta options, and the friendly service, this restaurant is a must-visit for any Italian food lover in Manhattan.

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Il Corso

Highlights
Amazing Italian meals
Generous portions
Exceptional waiting staff
Show stopping starters
Best tomato spaghetti

As soon as I stepped into Il Corso, I was greeted with the delicious aroma of authentic Italian cuisine wafting through the air. The restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere made me feel instantly at ease.

One of the things that impressed me the most about Il Corso was the amazing Italian meals they served. From their perfectly cooked pasta to their delectable seafood dishes, each bite was a mouthwatering delight. The generous portions left me feeling satisfied and content.

What truly stood out to me was the exceptional service provided by the waiting staff. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and always had a smile on their faces. The staff's genuine passion for their work added to the overall dining experience at Il Corso.

Il Corso certainly knows how to make an entrance when it comes to their starters. The presentation of their dishes was show-stopping, and the flavors were even better. Each bite was a beautiful explosion of taste and texture.

One dish that I must highlight is their best tomato spaghetti. The pasta was cooked to perfection, coated in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. It was a true celebration of simple yet exquisite Italian cooking.

Overall, my experience at Il Corso was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of amazing Italian meals, generous portions, exceptional waiting staff, show-stopping starters, and the best tomato spaghetti, made Il Corso a clear contender for one of the best Italian restaurants in Manhattan.

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Masseria dei Vini

I stepped into Masseria dei Vini with high expectations, and boy, did they deliver! From the moment I entered this culinary gem, I was transported to the enchanting streets of Italy. The rustic décor, attentive staff, and mouthwatering menu left me in awe. Don't even get me started on their homemade pasta - mamma mia! If you want an authentic Italian experience in the heart of Manhattan, Masseria dei Vini is the place to be.

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Piccola Cucina Uptown

Piccola Cucina Uptown in Manhattan is a hidden gem for all the pasta lovers out there. The lively atmosphere and authentic Italian flavors make this place a must-visit for those craving a taste of Italy. From the velvety carbonara to the heavenly tiramisu, this place will transport your taste buds to the streets of Rome.

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Chazz Palminteri Italian Restaurant

Chazz Palminteri Italian Restaurant in Manhattan is an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and an inviting atmosphere. The menu boasts a wide range of classic Italian dishes, each more mouthwatering than the last. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, recommending the perfect wine pairing for my meal. I savored every bite of my exquisite pasta dish, and when it came to dessert, I simply couldn't resist their heavenly tiramisu. Chazz Palminteri Italian Restaurant truly captures the essence of Italian cuisine, making it a must-visit for any food lover in Manhattan.

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Felice 56

Felice 56 in Manhattan is a delightful culinary playground for Italian food lovers. The ambiance is authentic with a touch of playfulness. The menu boasts a wide selection of mouthwatering dishes, and their tiramisu is pure indulgence. Get ready for a tantalizing adventure for your taste buds!

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Best Italian Restaurant In NYC

After hearing the hype, I dashed over to Best Italian Restaurant In NYC in Manhattan and boy, was I blown away! From the moment I entered, the aroma of garlic and fresh basil filled the air, instantly transporting me to Italy. The rustic decor added to the charm, while the friendly staff made me feel right at home. Now, let's talk about the food - mamma mia! Every bite was a burst of flavor that danced on my taste buds, from the creamy alfredo to the perfectly al dente pasta. And the pizza - I have no words, only a deep appreciation for the crispy thin crust and melty, gooey cheese. And speaking of cheese, the cheesecake was like a slice of heaven. If you're a fan of authentic Italian cuisine, this place is an absolute must-try. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Carmine's

Carmine's in Manhattan is a culinary oasis for all the Italian food lovers out there. From the moment you step in, the lively atmosphere and the aroma of deliciousness envelops you. The portions are generous enough to satisfy any hunger pang, and each dish is bursting with flavors that transport you straight to Italy. With a welcoming staff and a vibrant decor, Carmine's is the perfect spot for those seeking a truly authentic Italian dining experience. Don't forget to save room for their mouthwatering desserts!

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Via Carota

Located in Manhattan, Via Carota is a delightful Italian gem. With its charming atmosphere and delectable dishes, this restaurant truly captures the essence of Italian dining. The homemade pastas are a must-try, and the extensive wine list perfectly complements the flavors. Via Carota is a delightful addition to Manhattan's Italian culinary scene.

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Trattoria Dell'Arte

Trattoria Dell'Arte in Manhattan is a playful yet professional Italian restaurant. The menu is a symphony of flavors, with dishes like mouth-watering cacio e pepe and decadent tiramisu. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit for any Italian food lover in the city.

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Trattoria Trecolori

Trattoria Trecolori in Manhattan is a scrumptious slice of Italy right in the heart of the city. The homemade pasta was exquisite, and their divine tiramisu left me dreaming of creamy perfection. With impeccable service and an inviting atmosphere, Trattoria Trecolori is definitely a top contender for the best italian restaurants in Manhattan.

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