Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Lower East Side | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Lower East Side | Upscale Italian Food

• Pizza a Casa - Pizza School — Italian · rated 5/5: Flour-dusted counters and the inviting warmth of glowing ovens set the stage for a hands-on journey into the soulful art of the perfect artisanal pie. Guests immerse themselves in the rhythmic craft of kneading pillowy dough and layering vibrant, sun-ripened ingredients, watching as their creations transform into blistered, aromatic masterpieces. It is a communal celebration of Italian tradition where the magic of a shared meal begins with the very first pinch of yeast and ends with the triumphant crunch of a self-made crust.
• Uncle Sam's Pizza — Italian · rated 4.9/5: Uncle Sam’s Pizza serves as a warm neighborhood anchor where the comforting aroma of garlic and toasted dough fills a space buzzing with local energy. Golden, blistered crusts emerge from the oven topped with vibrant sauces and molten cheese, offering a soulful taste of Italian tradition that turns every meal into a festive community gathering.
• Two Perrys — American · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in Alphabet City, Two Perrys is a laid-back mini-tavern offering an array of expertly crafted cocktails, pub fare, and enticing happy hour specials. With a cozy and harmonious atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying pizza, anchovy stuffed olives, and boquerones. Whether you're craving a beer, wine, or an espresso martini, the great staff ensures a delightful experience every time.
• Mama Pearls Kitchen — American · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Harlem at 2181 Madison Ave, Mama Pearls Kitchen offers a delightful culinary journey through vegan cuisine. Led by renowned chef Stephanie St. Clair, this vegan establishment boasts a stellar 4.9 rating from 16 reviews. With dishes like vegan oxtails, creamy mac and cheese, and vibrant Rasta pasta, every meal showcases Stephanie's passion and innovation. Perfect for families, and with options for curbside pickup and delivery, Mama Pearls Kitchen is a must-visit for delicious, healthy, and soulfully prepared food.
• Maretta — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Maretta transports guests to a sun-drenched Italian escape, where the scent of fresh lemon and sea salt drifts through a bright, airy space designed for lingering over shared plates. Hand-rolled pastas and coastal-inspired dishes celebrate the vibrant simplicity of the Mediterranean, paired with crisp wines that evoke the effortless elegance of a seaside afternoon.
• Lil Frankie’s Grocery — Italian · rated 4.8/5: This sun-drenched East Village corner hums with the vibrant energy of a classic Roman alimentari, where the intoxicating scent of freshly baked focaccia and sharp provolone fills the air. Guests linger over overstuffed sandwiches and velvety espressos at marble counters, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling shelves brimming with artisanal oils, cured meats, and hand-pressed pastas. It is a rustic, soulful sanctuary that transforms a simple neighborhood stop into a sensory celebration of Italian heritage and old-world charm.
• Figlia — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of Queens at 23-02 31st St, Figlia is a delightful Neo-Neapolitan pizzeria serving up housemade pasta and delicious antipasti, complemented by an array of wines and cocktails. Its friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a date night or a casual dinner with friends. With outdoor seating and takeout options available, Figlia offers something special for everyone. Rated 4.8 stars by over 134 patrons, it’s truly a hidden gem in the neighborhood.
• The Oven’s Slice — Italian · rated 4.8/5: 🍕 **The Oven's Slice** 🇮🇹 Located at 84 Rivington St, New York, The Oven's Slice is a go-to spot for pizza enthusiasts. With a stellar rating of 4.8 based on 54 reviews, it specializes in mouthwatering slices, curbside pickup, and delivery. Enjoy outdoor seating, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a variety of payment options. Open daily from 11 AM, it's perfect for a late-night bite. 📞 (646) 368-1713 🌍 [The Oven's Slice on Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=13539742000485216623) 🌐 [Visit Website](http://theovensslice.com/)
• Pizza Loves Sauce — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Located at 147 E Houston St in New York, Pizza Loves Sauce is a New York-style pizzeria celebrated for its unique tie-dye pies. With a stellar rating of 4.8 from 449 reviews, this cozy spot offers a variety of delicious options including garlic knots, chicken rolls, and their famous spicy vodka chicken cutlet sandwich. The restaurant is family-friendly and provides curbside pickup, takeout, and delivery services. Open daily from noon till late, Pizza Loves Sauce is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
• Mille Nonne — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Nestled within Essex Market on the Lower East Side, Mille Nonne is a cozy Italian gem, celebrated for its homemade dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on healthy and sustainable cuisine, their menu offers a delightful array of options, including lasagna, gnocchi, and vegan pesto, complemented by delicious desserts like chocolate pudding. Diners appreciate the warm atmosphere, kind staff, and reasonable prices ranging from $10 to $20. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal or a vegan-friendly treat, Mille Nonne is a must-visit destination.
• Taverna Di Bacco — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Taverna Di Bacco transports guests to a candlelit sanctuary of old-world charm, where the air is rich with the heady perfume of simmering sauces and freshly baked focaccia. Silken ribbons of hand-rolled pasta and robust, wine-braised meats take center stage, inviting diners to lose themselves in a leisurely celebration of authentic Italian flavors and spirited hospitality.
• Fossetta — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Fossetta unfolds as a rustic-chic sanctuary where the aroma of toasted focaccia and the rhythmic clink of wine glasses create an effortlessly vibrant neighborhood pulse. Silken ribbons of house-made pasta and charred, seasonal small plates celebrate the honest beauty of Italian ingredients, offering a soulful dining experience that feels like a warm, candlelit embrace.
• Ray’s Pizza Bar — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Located at 2048 Amsterdam Ave, New York, Ray’s Pizza Bar is a popular spot known for its delicious slices and inviting atmosphere. With a rating of 4.7 from 137 reviews, this pizza restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. Open daily from 11 AM, Ray’s Pizza Bar is family-friendly, serves desserts, and accepts credit cards. Don't miss out on their classic and creative pizza selections! For more information, visit their website or call +1 646-609-1295.
• Il Posto Accanto — Italian · rated 4.6/5: This intimate neighborhood enoteca wraps guests in a warm, candlelit embrace, where the rhythmic clinking of wine glasses and the aroma of slow-simmered ragu create an atmosphere of effortless Roman charm. Rustic wooden accents and a curated wall of regional vintages set the stage for soulful, authentic plates that transform a simple meal into a lingering celebration of Italian tradition.
• Grand Street Pizza — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Located at 384 Grand St, New York, Grand Street Pizza serves up traditional New York-style pizza in an easygoing atmosphere. With offerings like pepperoni, vodka slices, and sausage, this hip venue is ideal for lunch or dinner. Enjoy your meal indoors or on the outdoor seating, paired with craft beer or wine. Loved by locals for its great music and friendly service, it's perfect for a casual hangout or watching sports.
• Biga Bite — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Discover Biga Bite, a cozy spot in NYC, renowned for its delightful Roman-style pizzas featuring light, crispy crusts and seasonal toppings. Pair your slice with a carefully curated selection of Italian wines and beers. With accessible parking, curbside pickup, and kid-friendly vibes, it's perfect for any outing. Rated 4.6 stars by over 600 patrons, this is a must-visit for true pizza aficionados.
• Gus's — American · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn's Carroll Gardens, Gus's Chop House offers a cozy dining experience with responsibly sourced steaks, housemade pasta, and seasonal vegetables. Known for its curated wine list, cocktails, and beer, the restaurant features a beautiful interior with outdoor seating. With attentive staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it's perfect for dinner or late-night bites. Indulge in recommended dishes like hash browns, shrimp cocktail, and delectable desserts. Contact: +1 347-227-8421.
• 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.
• Gruppo NYC Thin Crust Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Alphabet City, Gruppo NYC Thin Crust Pizza serves up delicious, ultra-thin crust pizzas that are a hit among locals and visitors alike. From vegetarian and vegan options to classic favorites like the shroomtown pizza, this cozy spot offers something for everyone. Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with fast service, happy hour specials, and a fantastic selection of beer, wine, and hard cider. Perfect for families and groups, Gruppo delivers both comfort and quality in every bite.
• Gnoccheria East Village — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Alphabet City, Gnoccheria East Village is a cozy Italian gem specializing in gnocchi with a variety of delectable sauces. This charming restaurant, known for its romantic atmosphere, also offers vegetarian and vegan delights, perfect for a family outing. With excellent service and popular dishes like truffle gnocchi and strawberry cheesecake, it’s a must-visit spot for any Italian cuisine enthusiast.
• Lavagna — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in Alphabet City, Lavagna is an intimate Italian gem perfect for both solo diners and families. Enjoy expertly crafted pasta, pizza, and meat dishes, all within a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Highlights include rigatoni with sweet fennel and sausage, and mouth-watering panna cotta for dessert. Ideal for a memorable meal, the restaurant offers a notable wine list and fast, friendly service. Reservations recommended.
• Avenue D Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of New York's Alphabet City at 15 Avenue D, Avenue D Pizza is a local favorite, earning rave reviews for its delicious and affordable cuisine. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM, this pizza restaurant also offers a variety of Spanish dishes, making it a versatile dining spot for all tastes. With both takeout and delivery options available, it's a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal. Visit Avenue D Pizza and treat yourself to a delightful culinary experience.
• Saluggi's East — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Saluggi’s East pulses with the vibrant energy of the neighborhood, drawing guests into a rustic-industrial space where the amber glow of the brick oven illuminates exposed brick and weathered wood. The air carries the irresistible perfume of bubbling cheese and herbaceous marinara, setting the stage for thin-crust pizzas and soul-warming Italian classics that celebrate bold, honest flavors. It is a welcoming corner of the city where the clink of glasses and the warmth of shared plates create an atmosphere of effortless, convivial charm.
• Two Boots — Italian · rated 4.4/5: A kaleidoscope of folk art and cinematic charm sets the stage at this vibrant eatery, where the bold, spicy flavors of the Bayou collide with traditional Italian soul. Crispy, cornmeal-crusted pizzas emerge from the oven topped with zesty, unconventional ingredients that dance on the palate, filling the air with an irresistible, savory heat. The energetic atmosphere invites diners to savor every creative slice in a space that feels like a soulful neighborhood celebration of art and unconventional taste.
• Il Gusto Pizza — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Tucked away in New York's vibrant neighborhood, Il Gusto Pizza serves up a delightful array of Italian favorites. From mouthwatering pizzas and pastas to savory chicken entrees, this relaxed eatery has something for everyone. They also offer delivery and takeout, making it easy to enjoy their delicious food at home. Open daily and welcoming to families, Il Gusto Pizza is a great spot for a satisfying meal. Visit them at 50 2nd Ave, or give them a call at +1 646-767-0056 for more information.
• Essex Pizza — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Located at 123 Essex St, New York, Essex Pizza has quickly become a local favorite. Rated 4.4 stars with 63 reviews, this cozy spot serves mouth-watering pizza slices with a balance of crispy crust and flavorful toppings. It’s perfect for families, accepts credit cards, offers curbside pickup, and features takeout and dine-in options. Open daily from 11 AM to 1:30 AM, Essex Pizza is the ideal spot for a delicious, affordable meal any day of the week.
• Champion Pizza Essex — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Champion Pizza Essex, nestled at 123 Essex St, New York, is the go-to spot for pizza lovers. This popular chain serves a diverse array of pizzas by the slice or pie, including unique grandma-style pies, with a side of wine. With a 4.4-star rating and 648 reviews, it welcomes both group gatherings and families. Open daily from 11 AM, it offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery services.
• Lil' Frankies — Italian · rated 4.3/5: This boisterous East Village hideaway pulses with a vintage energy, where the crackle of a wood-burning oven and a soulful soundtrack set the stage for long, candlelit nights. Guests crowd around rustic tables to savor blistered Neapolitan pies and the legendary brightness of lemon pasta, all served with an unpretentious flair that captures the effortless charm of a Roman trattoria. It is a spirited sanctuary where the wine flows freely and the atmosphere hums with the vibrant, communal joy of a true neighborhood institution.
• Una Pizza Napoletana — Italian · rated 4.3/5: This minimalist sanctuary centers on a singular, obsessive devotion to the Neapolitan tradition, where the air is thick with the primal scent of wood smoke and naturally leavened dough. Each hand-stretched pie emerges from the blistering heat of the tiled oven with a beautifully charred, cloud-like crust that cradles pools of molten buffalo mozzarella and the bright acidity of sun-ripened tomatoes. It is an experience of pure, unadorned artistry, inviting diners to witness the soulful harmony of salt, flour, and fire in every tender bite.