Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale Italian Food

• Fumo — Italian · rated 5/5: Fumo invites guests into a chic, high-energy space where the sizzle of the kitchen and the hum of conversation create an irresistible urban pulse. Golden-fried riceballs and bubbling eggplant parmigiana arrive at candlelit tables alongside buttery lobster roll sliders, blending soulful Italian comfort with a sophisticated, modern edge. Whether sharing a plate of creamy burrata and prosciutto or crisp, spicy calamari, diners find a vibrant retreat where every bite celebrates bold flavors and effortless style.
• Vinateria — Italian · rated 5/5: This stylish Harlem corner sanctuary invites guests into a sun-drenched space where black-and-white tiled floors and a sleek zinc bar set the stage for a soulful Mediterranean journey. The air hums with the energy of a neighborhood favorite as vibrant plates of seasonal Italian and Spanish-inspired fare emerge from the kitchen, perfectly complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine program that celebrates small-batch producers. It is a place where the elegance of a downtown bistro meets the heartfelt warmth of a local haunt, making every meal feel like a celebratory escape.
• Nokka LLC — American · rated 5/5: Nokka LLC, located at 2319 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, is a delightful Italian restaurant known for its homemade dishes crafted with top-quality ingredients. With options for dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup, it's a perfect spot for lunch or dinner with the family. Praised for its exceptional jerk wings and burgers, Nokka LLC is highly rated by its patrons and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Cafe Valona — Italian · rated 5/5: Cafe Valona, nestled on Morningside Dr in New York, offers a delightful Mediterranean experience. This cozy café, open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM, prides itself on serving memorable breakfasts and brunches. Enjoy their famed Mediterranean Omelet, praised for its presentation and taste. With takeout, curbside pickup, and a welcoming ambiance, it's a perfect spot for a relaxing morning or midday meal.
• Enoteca Harlem — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Central Harlem, Enoteca Harlem offers a delightful blend of Spanish and Chilean cuisines with cozy, romantic vibes perfect for brunch, dinner, or late-night. Guests rave about the knowledgeable and welcoming staff, delectable dishes like paella and octopus, and an impressive selection of Chilean wines. With both indoor and patio seating, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a wonderful meal and great company.
• Island Grill Modern Caribbean Kitchen — Caribbean · rated 4.8/5: Located in the heart of Harlem, Island Grill Modern Caribbean Kitchen offers a delightful fusion of Jamaican and soul food specialties in a contemporary ambiance. Perfect for families, this charming spot boasts free street parking and a convenient take-out option. With a commendable 4.8 rating and over 389 reviews, guests appreciate the friendly service and a menu featuring everything from oxtail to Rasta pasta. Indulge in desserts, enjoy the convenience of curbside pickup, and pay easily with cash or credit. Visit us at 576 W 125th St, New York, NY or explore our offerings online.
• Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria captures the vibrant spirit of the Italian coast and countryside, where the warmth of a wood-fired oven meets the breezy elegance of a Mediterranean escape. Sun-ripened produce and fresh catches from the sea come together on plates of artisanal pasta and blistered, thin-crust pizzas, each bite celebrating the harmony of simple, high-quality ingredients. Guests find a welcoming sanctuary where authentic flavors and heartfelt hospitality turn every meal into a leisurely celebration of the good life.
• Traviata Pizza II — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Traviata Pizza II invites diners into a world of old-school Italian charm, where the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of hand-tossed dough and slow-simmered marinara. Each slice delivers a perfect harmony of crispy, flour-dusted crust and molten cheese, while the kitchen’s dedication to tradition shines through in every plate of steaming pasta and savory hero. Whether grabbing a quick, foldable slice on the go or settling in for a family feast, the vibrant energy and timeless flavors make every visit feel like a homecoming.
• Bar 314 — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the amber glow of a roaring wood-fired oven, Bar 314 invites guests into a spirited neighborhood retreat where the air is thick with the aroma of blistered crusts and simmering pomodoro. Artisanal pizzas topped with seasonal treasures pair seamlessly with hand-shaken botanical cocktails, offering a soulful Italian experience that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply comforting.
• 314 - pizza,pasta&cocktailbar — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side at 3143 Broadway, Bar314 offers a cozy escape with its delicious Italian comfort food and renowned wood-fired pizzas. With a full bar featuring an impressive wine selection, this spot is perfect for a casual meal or a date night. Open daily from noon, Bar314 provides a warm atmosphere and gluten-free options, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
• Koronet Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: A Morningside Heights landmark where the legendary, oversized slices stretch far beyond the plate, offering a golden expanse of bubbling mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce. The bustling, no-frills atmosphere hums with the energy of late-night cravings and quick bites, inviting guests to fold a massive, crispy crust that delivers a quintessential taste of New York soul.
• Lido — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Lido captures the sun-drenched spirit of the Italian coast, welcoming guests into a breezy, light-filled space that hums with the effortless elegance of a Mediterranean summer. The air carries the intoxicating aroma of charred crusts and simmering pomodoro, as the kitchen turns out silken, hand-rolled pastas and vibrant seafood dishes that celebrate the simple, soulful beauty of seasonal ingredients. It is a place designed for lingering, where crisp glasses of wine and shared rustic plates invite diners to slow down and savor the timeless rhythm of la dolce vita.
• Pisticci — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the soft glow of candlelight and the soulful strains of live jazz, this neighborhood sanctuary wraps guests in a rustic embrace of exposed brick and local art. The kitchen breathes life into traditional Southern Italian flavors, where the aroma of slow-simmered ragu mingles with the brightness of farm-to-table produce to create plates of silky, hand-rolled pasta. Every meal feels like a spirited celebration of community and craft, offering a timeless escape that lingers long after the last drop of wine is poured.
• Vinateria — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Vinateria serves as a chic neighborhood sanctuary where the sun-drenched warmth of a Mediterranean villa meets the polished energy of a modern bistro. The air hums with the clink of glasses and the aroma of garden-fresh herbs as guests savor silken, hand-rolled pastas and vibrant seasonal plates crafted with an artisanal touch. It is a place where time slows over a perfectly paired vintage, offering a sophisticated yet soulful escape into the heart of Italian hospitality.
• Max Soha — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched Morningside Heights corner, guests are greeted by the rustic charm of exposed brick and the comforting clatter of a bustling neighborhood trattoria. The kitchen breathes life into the space with the intoxicating aroma of garlic-infused olive oil and slow-simmered sauces, delivering plates of silken handmade pasta that capture the soulful, unpretentious essence of a home-cooked Italian feast.
• Vinatería — Spanish · rated 4.5/5: Welcome to Vinatería, a chic and contemporary restaurant located on Frederick Douglass Blvd in New York. Renowned for its upscale Italian and Spanish-influenced cuisine, Vinatería pairs exquisite dishes with fine wine and cocktails. The inviting ambiance, coupled with exceptional service, makes it perfect for an intimate dinner or a family outing. With accessibility options, outdoor seating, and a delightful menu that includes vegetarian and children's options, Vinatería promises a fantastic dining experience.
• Fumo Upper West Side — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Located at 2791 Broadway in New York, Fumo Upper West Side is a welcoming Italian eatery known for its delectable pizzas, pastas, and other classic Italian dishes. Featuring a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating, it's perfect for family dining and group gatherings. With a full bar serving wine, beer, and cocktails, plus options for gluten-free and vegetarian diners, it promises a delightful dining experience. Rated 4.5 stars by 640 reviewers, this spot is a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine.
• Fumo — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Fumo invites diners into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of wood-smoke and toasted flour sets the stage for a modern Italian feast. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the glowing oven with perfectly blistered crusts, while silken ribbons of pasta are tossed in rich, slow-simmered ragus that evoke the warmth of a traditional Roman kitchen. It is a place where the energy of a bustling open kitchen meets the intimacy of a candlelit table, creating an atmosphere that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply comforting.
• Milano Market Westside — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of New York, Milano Market Westside is a delightful gem that combines a gourmet grocery store with a haven for Italian specialty sandwiches. With a stellar 4.4 rating from nearly 500 reviews, this spot is celebrated for its top-notch sandwiches. Open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM and offering flexible payment options, Milano Market is perfect for a quick, flavorful bite or a leisurely visit.
• Rosa Pizza — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Located at 2210 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, Rosa Pizza offers a casual dining atmosphere with a delectable variety of pizzas for all taste preferences. Open daily with convenient takeout and delivery options, this family-friendly spot even serves wine to complement your meal. With a robust 4.4-star rating, Rosa Pizza is a beloved local favorite, perfect for enjoying a delicious slice in Harlem.
• Lido Harlem Restaurant — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Central Harlem, Lido Harlem Restaurant offers an elegant Italian dining experience with a cozy, romantic ambiance. Particularly renowned for its brunch, this lively spot serves delectable dishes like the braised short rib hash, salmon benedict, and chicken sandwich. With a warm and commendable service, reservations for their popular bottomless mimosa brunch are recommended. A perfect location for both families and solo diners, this charming venue invites you to savor its delightful cuisine and enjoy its inviting outdoor seating.
• Pepo’s Pizza — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Hamilton Heights, Pepo's Pizza offers a cozy and informal atmosphere perfect for families and groups alike. Serving up delicious lunch, brunch, dinner, and late-night bites, the menu includes classic pizza, hearty comfort foods, vegetarian options, and halal selections. Popular dishes feature chicken tenders, garlic knots, and flavorful wings. With convenient takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options, Pepo's Pizza ensures everyone can enjoy high-quality, affordable eats ($1-10) with ease. High chairs are available for little ones, making it a child-friendly destination. For more, visit us at 1522 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY.
• Tartina — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Located in the heart of Morningside Heights, Tartina is a delightful Italian restaurant known for its comforting cuisine and inviting outdoor seating. Offering a diverse menu including pasta, steak, pancakes, and arancini, Tartina pairs its delicious food with a variety of drinks such as beer, wine, and cocktails. The casual yet romantic atmosphere, complemented by live jazz, makes it a great spot for families and couples alike. Fast and attentive service ensures a pleasant dining experience every time. Reservations recommended.
• Slices Pizza — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of Elizabethport, Slices Pizza offers a laid-back dining experience perfect for lunch or dinner. Known for its delicious pizzas, this cozy spot also serves comforting Italian entrees, sandwiches, and delectable desserts. With friendly staff and vegetarian options available, it's ideal for solo diners and families alike. Open most days, Slices Pizza ensures a tasty bite within a budget of $10-20.
• KARLSBALLS — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Nestled at 332 Riverside Dr, New York, KARLSBALLS brings a taste of authentic Osaka-style takoyaki to the streets of Manhattan. Known for its crispy exteriors and creamy interiors, this Japanese street food haven has earned a solid 4.3 rating based on 29 reviews. Patrons rave about the fresh octopus and exceptional flavors. With options like curbside pickup, outdoor seating, and multiple payment methods including NFC, KARLSBALLS is a must-visit for takoyaki enthusiasts.
• V&T Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.2/5: The air inside this legendary neighborhood institution is thick with the comforting perfume of slow-simmered marinara and toasted dough, drawing guests into a space that hums with old-school charm. Thin-crust pizzas emerge from the oven with perfectly blistered edges and molten cheese, served alongside overflowing plates of pasta at red-checkered tables that invite families to linger over a meal that feels like a timeless embrace.
• V & T — Italian · rated 4.2/5: V & T, a beloved Upper West Side staple since 1945, offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Italian-American cuisine, including thin-crust pizzas. This family-friendly restaurant is perfect for a relaxed meal, serving lunch and dinner with options for kids. Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail alongside their hearty dishes and tempting desserts. With free street parking and outdoor seating, V & T remains a local favorite.
• Mama's TOO! Upper West Side — Italian · rated 4.2/5: Located in the Upper West Side, Mama's TOO! is a popular pizzeria known for its square, Sicilian, and Detroit-style pies. Offering a casual dining experience with a selection of beer and wine, this spot is ideal for families and pizza lovers alike. Enjoy your slice on their small patio or opt for takeout to enjoy at home. With a solid 4.2 rating from 1866 reviews, Mama's TOO! promises a delightful pizza experience.
• Koronet Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This iconic neighborhood cornerstone buzzes with energy as patrons hoist legendary jumbo slices that spill over the edges of their plates in a glorious display of molten cheese and crisp, golden crust. The air remains thick with the comforting scent of bubbling mozzarella and garlicky Grandma pies, offering a quintessential New York experience where every oversized bite feels like a soulful celebration of the city's pizza heritage.
• Milano Market — Italian · rated 4/5: This bustling neighborhood cornerstone invites guests into a sensory wonderland where the air is rich with the aroma of aged provolone and freshly sliced prosciutto. Floor-to-ceiling shelves overflowing with imported Italian treasures frame a legendary deli counter, where masterfully overstuffed sandwiches are built on crusty bread with hand-pulled mozzarella and vibrant, house-made pestos.