Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Little Italy | Upscale & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Little Italy | Upscale & Carnivore

• Orchard Grocer — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem reimagines the classic deli experience, where the nostalgic aroma of toasted bagels and savory schmear mingles with the sun-drenched energy of a bustling morning. Towering, inventive sandwiches like the Miles and the Bowery offer a satisfying harmony of textures and bold flavors, while the signature breakfast burrito provides a warm, hearty embrace for the soul. Whether you’re grabbing a crisp Orchard Cobb to go or lingering over a perfectly pressed roll, it’s a charming corner where modern culinary creativity meets the timeless spirit of the city.
• Raf's — Italian · rated 5/5: Sunlight dances across a counter laden with golden, shatteringly crisp pastries, where the buttery aroma of fresh-baked croissants and caramelized sugar fills the air. This chic neighborhood haunt elevates the morning ritual with an array of artisanal treasures, from savory parcels of prosciutto and taleggio to decadent harissa chocolate cake and jewel-like seasonal tarts.
• Sōrate — Japanese · rated 5/5: Sōrate invites guests into a tranquil, minimalist sanctuary where the ancient ritual of Japanese tea is performed with modern elegance and quiet precision. Vibrant clouds of emerald matcha are whisked to a delicate froth in ceramic bowls, while the nutty aroma of roasted hojicha and the deep, oceanic notes of superior gyokuro fill the air. Whether exploring a flight of rare shade-grown powders or savoring a steaming pot of sencha, the experience is a sensory immersion into the refined soul of traditional tea culture.
• Noona's — Korean · rated 5/5: Noona’s transforms the simple joy of a frozen treat into a sophisticated exploration of heritage and whimsy, where the air is sweet with the scent of toasted grains and warm spices. Silky scoops of earthy matcha and vibrant ube latte mingle with playful, texture-rich creations like crunchy honeycomb and chewy banana pudding mochi. It is a modern creamery that celebrates cross-cultural flavors, inviting guests to rediscover nostalgic comforts through a bold, artisanal lens.
• Da Silvano — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Sun-drenched sidewalk tables under iconic yellow awnings offer a front-row seat to the vibrant pulse of Greenwich Village, where the clinking of wine glasses mingles with spirited conversation. The kitchen breathes life into the rustic traditions of Tuscany, serving up soul-warming bowls of handmade pasta and tender, herb-infused meats that capture the effortless elegance of a long, leisurely afternoon in Florence.
• Briciola Pizza Bar — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Briciola Pizza Bar pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern Italian enoteca, where the intoxicating aroma of wood-fired dough and simmering San Marzano tomatoes draws guests into its warm, convivial embrace. Beneath the soft glow of the oven, diners tear into artisanal pies boasting perfectly blistered crusts and hand-pulled mozzarella, paired with crisp glasses of wine that flow as freely as the conversation. It is a sanctuary of soulful flavors where rustic craftsmanship meets a sleek, social atmosphere, turning every meal into a spirited celebration of the perfect crumb.
• Lei — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Lei invites guests into a sanctuary of refined elegance, where the soft glow of silk lanterns illuminates a space filled with the fragrant steam of jasmine tea and the rhythmic, soulful sizzle of the wok. The kitchen masterfully balances the bold, numbing heat of traditional spices with the delicate sweetness of fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant tapestry of regional flavors that transforms every shared plate into an evocative celebration of Chinese culinary artistry.
• Yum Cha — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic procession, unveiling translucent shrimp dumplings and honey-glazed pork buns that perfume the air with ginger and five-spice. The space hums with the convivial energy of shared stories and clinking porcelain, creating a vibrant backdrop for a leisurely feast where the ancient art of tea-drinking meets a kaleidoscope of handcrafted delicacies.
• Jerrell's BETR BRGR — American · rated 4.7/5: Bathed in the glow of vibrant neon and retro-cool aesthetics, this high-energy haunt reimagines the classic American burger joint with a bold, plant-based soul. Sizzling patties are layered with gooey cheese and zesty signature sauce, paired perfectly with golden waffle fries and thick, velvety shakes that deliver a nostalgic punch of flavor for the modern diner.
• Kalye — Filipino · rated 4.7/5: Kalye transports diners to the heart of a bustling Manila night market, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of garlic-infused rice and the smoky char of street-style skewers. The vibrant, urban space hums with a communal energy, offering a soulful exploration of Filipino heritage through bold plates that masterfully balance punchy citrus brightness with rich, slow-simmered depths.
• Carol's Bun — American · rated 4.7/5: Carol’s Bun captures the heart of classic Americana, where the nostalgic aroma of butter-toasted brioche and sizzling griddled patties fills a space glowing with warm, neighborhood charm. Each bite offers a masterclass in comfort, pairing juicy, hand-pressed burgers with golden, pillowy buns that melt away to reveal layers of savory richness and crisp, garden-fresh toppings. It is a vibrant sanctuary for the soul, where the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the hum of happy conversation turn a simple meal into a timeless celebration of the great American diner.
• Boqueria Soho — Spanish · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this vibrant corner of Soho feels like being transported to a bustling Barcelona market, where the air hums with the energy of shared conversations and the rhythmic clatter of small plates. Golden light spills over marble counters as the kitchen turns out a parade of smoky pimentón-dusted tapas and bubbling pans of paella, inviting guests to lose themselves in a communal celebration of bold Spanish flavors and flowing cava.
• Piacere — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Piacere captures the soul of Italy in a sun-drenched space where the aroma of toasted garlic and slow-simmered ragù drifts through an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Guests linger over silken ribbons of hand-rolled pasta and vibrant, seasonal antipasti, savoring a dining experience that elevates simple ingredients into a celebration of flavor. It is a sanctuary of warmth and light, where every pour of robust wine and every shared plate feels like a heartfelt toast to the joy of living.
• Ramen Ishida — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: This intimate, minimalist sanctuary invites diners to settle into a narrow counter where the rhythmic clatter of noodle baskets and the gentle simmer of pots create a focused, soulful soundtrack. Crystalline chicken broths are elevated by the earthy perfume of truffle and the delicate snap of thin, artisanal noodles, resulting in a bowl that feels both profoundly traditional and strikingly modern. Each slurp reveals a masterclass in balance, providing a serene escape where the complex depth of umami meets the quiet elegance of Japanese craftsmanship.
• Divya’s Kitchen — Indian · rated 4.6/5: Step into a serene sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the gentle warmth of toasted spices and the calming essence of an Ayurvedic kitchen. Each dish is a vibrant tapestry of healing ingredients, from golden kitchari to herb-flecked vegetable bowls, meticulously crafted to nourish both the body and the spirit. This sun-drenched space invites a mindful approach to Indian cuisine, where ancient wisdom meets modern elegance in every balanced, flavorful bite.
• Zest Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Zest Sushi radiates a modern, high-energy glow where the sharp precision of the blade meets a playful explosion of bright, citrus-forward flavors. Each plate arrives as a vibrant canvas of shimmering sashimi and inventive rolls, balancing the clean simplicity of the ocean with bold, zesty accents that dance across the palate in a sleek, minimalist setting.
• V-Nam Cafe — Vietnamese · rated 4.6/5: V-Nam Cafe invites diners into a world of vibrant aromatics, where the steam from slow-simmered phở broths carries notes of star anise and charred ginger through the cozy, bustling space. The experience centers on a masterful balance of textures and temperatures, from the shatteringly crisp crust of a savory banh mi to the cooling crunch of fresh herbs and zesty citrus that brighten every soul-warming bowl.
• Ba‘al Cafe & Falafel — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Ba‘al Cafe & Falafel is a sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and the irresistible fragrance of chickpeas crisping in the fryer. Golden, herb-flecked falafel offers a satisfying crunch that gives way to a tender, steaming center, served alongside velvety hummus and zesty pickles that capture the soulful, sun-kissed essence of Levantine
• Pep's on Grand — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights, Pep's on Grand invites guests into a spirited sanctuary where the rhythmic clinking of wine glasses harmonizes with the intoxicating aroma of garlic-infused olive oil. Silken, hand-rolled pastas and slow-simmered sauces celebrate the soulful simplicity of Italian tradition, creating a dining experience that feels both timelessly elegant and vibrantly alive.
• MakiMaki — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the rhythmic dance of the sushi knife meets a sleek, modern aesthetic bathed in a warm, inviting glow. The art of the roll is elevated to a sensory performance here, pairing buttery slices of pristine seafood with crisp, toasted nori that shatters with every delicate bite. It is a space where traditional craftsmanship finds a playful, contemporary pulse, inviting diners to linger over meticulously crafted plates that celebrate the pure, clean essence of the sea.
• Katz's Delicatessen — American · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this legendary Lower East Side institution feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-smoked brisket and the rhythmic thud of knives against wooden carving blocks. Towering piles of hand-sliced pastrami, glistening with spice and steam, are served on simple rye bread amidst a bustling sea of communal tables and neon-lit nostalgia. It is a sensory whirlwind of New York history, where every bite of tender, salt-cured meat captures a tradition that has remained unchanged for generations.
• Le Coucou — French · rated 4.5/5: Le Coucou transports diners to a realm of cinematic Parisian elegance, where soaring ceilings and flickering candlelight illuminate a dining room draped in crisp linens and timeless sophistication. The air hums with the theater of an open kitchen as classic French techniques are reimagined with breathtaking finesse, delivering velvet-smooth quenelles and golden-crusted duck bathed in rich, soulful sauces. It is a place where old-world glamour meets modern New York energy, inviting guests to lose themselves in a decadent, multi-sensory celebration of Gallic tradition.
• Bowery Meat Company — Steakhouse · rated 4.5/5: This stylish Bowery haunt reimagines the classic steakhouse with mid-century panache, wrapping diners in a warm glow of wood paneling and plush leather banquettes. The kitchen transforms premium cuts into charred masterpieces, where the smoky aroma of the wood grill mingles with the rich decadence of dry-aged beef and inventive, soul-warming sides. It is a vibrant intersection of retro glamour and contemporary culinary craft, perfect for a night of spirited conversation and unparalleled indulgence.
• Pasquale Jones — Italian · rated 4.5/5: The rhythmic crackle of twin wood-burning ovens anchors this high-energy Nolita corner, where the intoxicating aroma of charred dough and sea salt beckons from a bustling open kitchen. Guests indulge in the artistry of fire-kissed cooking, savoring legendary blistered clam pizzas and succulent roasted meats that celebrate the bold, rustic simplicity of the Italian coast. Against a backdrop of curated vinyl beats, the space hums with a sophisticated yet soulful energy, transforming a simple dinner into a vibrant urban celebration.
• $1.50 Fresh Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: The irresistible aroma of toasted dough and bubbling mozzarella spills onto the bustling sidewalk, inviting a steady stream of locals into this high-energy urban hub. Oversized slices are pulled piping hot from the oven, boasting a satisfyingly crisp crust and a molten layer of savory sauce that delivers a quintessential taste of the city in every bite. It is a vibrant, fast-paced sanctuary where the simple pleasure of a fresh, steaming slice provides a comforting anchor amidst the rush of the day.
• Pepolino — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Tucked away like a well-kept secret, this intimate Italian gem envelops guests in the earthy fragrance of wild thyme and the comforting glow of a rustic Tuscan farmhouse. Every bite of tender, hand-rolled pasta and slow-simmered ragu tells a story of tradition, inviting diners to slow down and lose themselves in the timeless charm of a soulful Florentine feast.
• Spaghetti Incident — Italian · rated 4.5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt invites guests into a world of twirling forks and steam-fogged windows, where the comforting aroma of bubbling marinara and sharp pecorino fills the air. Hand-crafted pastas are tossed with bold, rustic flavors and served in generous portions that celebrate the messy, soul-warming joy of traditional Italian cooking. It is a vibrantly alive sanctuary, where the clatter of plates and
• Trapizzino — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Trapizzino captures the vibrant spirit of Roman street food, where the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread meets the savory depth of slow-simmered Italian classics. Golden, triangular pockets of crispy pizza dough are stuffed to the brim with soulful fillings like tender meatballs in rich ragu or creamy eggplant parmigiana, creating a handheld feast that balances a satisfying crunch with melt-in-your-mouth comfort.
• Bar Verde — Mexican · rated 4.5/5: Bar Verde is a lush, light-filled sanctuary where the vibrant soul of Mexican cuisine is reimagined through a lens of modern elegance and garden-fresh ingredients. The air carries the bright scent of freshly squeezed lime and smoky agave, accompanying a parade of hand-pressed tortillas and complex moles that dance across the palate with bold, sun-drenched intensity. This inviting escape captures the festive energy of a contemporary cantina, encouraging guests to linger over artisanal cocktails in a space that feels both sophisticated and deeply rooted in tradition.
• Pepe Rosso — Italian · rated 4.5/5: This vibrant sanctuary of Italian soul envelops guests in the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered ragù and the rhythmic, energetic clatter of a bustling open kitchen. Hand-rolled pastas are tossed in sun-ripened sauces that capture the bold essence of the Mediterranean, while the intimate, candlelit space hums with the warm, convivial spirit of a timeless neighborhood trattoria.