Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in New York City | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in New York City | 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.
• Saucey Pizza Bar — Italian · rated 5/5: Bathed in a warm, convivial glow, this spirited Italian haunt centers around the rhythmic toss of artisanal dough and the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered, herb-flecked sauces. Guests gather at the sleek bar to enjoy blistered, wood-fired pies and vibrant small plates, creating a lively symphony of clinking glasses and shared laughter that captures the heart of modern Mediterranean hospitality.
• Macario — Italian · rated 5/5: Macario transports diners to the heart of Italy, where the soft glow of candlelight dances across rustic wooden tables and the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of slow-simmered ragù and fresh basil. Hand-rolled pastas take center stage, each ribbon and fold capturing the essence of heritage recipes, while vibrant seasonal ingredients are transformed into plates that celebrate the simple, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. It is a sanctuary of soulful hospitality, where every glass of robust red wine and every shared plate of antipasti invites guests to linger long into the evening.
• Norma — Italian · rated 5/5: Norma transports diners to the sun-drenched heart of Sicily, where the air is perfumed with the scent of charred aubergine and slow-simmered tomatoes. Hand-crafted pastas and vibrant, salt-kissed seafood take center stage in a space that glows with Mediterranean warmth, inviting guests to lose themselves in the rhythmic hum of a bustling trattoria. It is a soulful celebration of Italian heritage, where every plate tells a story of tradition reimagined with modern, artful flair.
• Joe's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The rhythmic slap of hand-tossed dough and the warm glow of the stone oven define this bustling neighborhood staple, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour. Each slice offers a masterclass in simplicity, featuring a perfectly charred, foldable crust topped with a vibrant tomato sauce that captures the soul of traditional Italian street food. It is a vibrant, flour-dusted sanctuary where the frantic energy of the city gives way to the timeless, savory comfort of a classic pie.
• La Couronne — French · rated 5/5: La Couronne invites guests into a refined sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory perfume of garlic, fresh herbs, and simmering seafood. Tables are adorned with overflowing platters of golden-fried calamari and bubbling Clams Casino, encouraging a communal dining experience rooted in the timeless traditions of the Italian coast. Every meal feels like a celebratory feast, where the spicy kick of Rock Shrimp Arrabiata and the comfort of Eggplant Rollatine are served with a touch of old-school elegance and warmth.
• & Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This high-energy urban haunt pulses with a modern, industrial edge, inviting guests to watch as fresh dough is transformed into signature oblong pies right before their eyes. Bold flavor profiles take center stage, where the sweet heat of hot honey meets savory meats and inventive toppings like zesty mambo sauce create a vibrant, customizable feast. Every bite delivers a perfectly charred crust and a rebellious spirit, making it a destination for those who crave a fast-paced yet artisanal approach to the classic slice.
• Natoli's Deli — Italian · rated 5/5: Natoli’s Deli captures the heart of a classic neighborhood haunt, where the morning air is filled with the savory aroma of sizzling Taylor ham and golden-brown home fries. The counter hums with energy as the kitchen turns out everything from hearty, overstuffed egg sandwiches to crispy, sauce-laden rice balls and tender mussels marinara, offering a comforting sanctuary of authentic, soul-warming flavors.
• Giovanni's Italian Deli — Italian · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood deli invites guests into a space filled with the vibrant colors of garden-fresh greens and the comforting, savory steam of slow-simmered lentil and chicken orzo soups. Crisp, artfully composed salads take center stage, ranging from zesty buffalo chicken and classic antipasto to delicate bocconcini and house-made tri-color pasta tossed in bright, herb-infused dressings. Every bowl captures the essence of a traditional Italian kitchen, offering a wholesome and flavorful escape where simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed into satisfying midday feasts.
• Popolari - Bloomfield — Italian · rated 5/5: Popolari invites guests into a vibrant, social atmosphere where the air is thick with the scent of simmering sauces and the convivial hum of shared plates. Golden arancini and bubbling baked feta lead the way for indulgent mains like silk-smooth pistachio gnocchi and rich mushroom cream pasta, each dish celebrating the bold, rustic flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether lingering over a curated charcuterie board or diving into a bowl of briny steamed clams, diners find a spirited retreat that balances modern flair with the comforting soul of a classic neighborhood kitchen.
• Grumpy's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood fixture hums with the energy of a classic pizzeria, where the intoxicating aroma of charred crust and savory tomato sauce draws locals into its warm, flour-dusted embrace. Hand-stretched dough meets a molten layer of bubbling cheese and vibrant toppings, resulting in hearty, oversized slices that celebrate the timeless art of the perfect pie. It’s a place where pretense is left at the door, replaced by the simple, soul-warming satisfaction of a shared meal in a space that feels like a well-loved community secret.
• Redd's Restaurant — American · rated 5/5: Steaming bowls of garden-fresh minestrone and golden, bubbling pizzas anchor the table at this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the casual energy of a local favorite meets the soul-warming comfort of a home-cooked meal. Guests gather in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere to share towering plates of crisp nachos and savory wraps, making every visit feel like a warm invitation to unwind and indulge in timeless, approachable flavors.
• Bar Americano — Italian · rated 5/5: This chic, European-inspired retreat captures the spirit of a classic aperitivo bar, where the clinking of cocktail glasses harmonizes with the briny scent of freshly shucked East Coast oysters. The kitchen elevates small-plate dining with delicate hamachi crudo and crisp smoked eel croquettes, alongside rustic pamboli and traditional tortilla de patatas that invite slow, communal grazing. It is an atmosphere of effortless sophistication, where every bite of salty Marcona almonds or rich charcuterie feels like a celebrated moment of leisure.
• 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.
• LaRina — Italian · rated 5/5: This spirited Italian destination celebrates the art of the salumeria, where marble counters are adorned with aged wheels of Parmigiano and ribbons of paper-thin prosciutto crudo. The dining room hums with energy as guests share vibrant plates of bitter Radicchio Castelfranco and velvety Stracciatella di Burrata, creating a mosaic of seasonal colors and textures. From the nutty crunch of pistachio-studded mortadella to the earthy sweetness of roasted zucca, every dish honors the deep, soulful flavors of traditional craftsmanship.
• Bobbi's Italian Beef — American · rated 5/5: Bobbi's Italian Beef captures the soulful energy of a Chicago neighborhood joint, where the air is thick with the savory scent of slow-simmered beef and the spicy kick of house-made giardiniera. From the buttery, molten depths of a deep-dish pizza to the satisfying snap of a classic Vienna Beef dog, every bite is a tribute to Midwestern comfort, best enjoyed with a frosty craft beer and the lively hum of a bustling dining room.
• Knapp Pizza II — Italian · rated 5/5: The air at Knapp Pizza II is thick with the comforting scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted dough, drawing neighbors into a bustling space that feels like a timeless slice of the local community. Golden, thin-crust pies emerge piping hot from the oven, boasting a perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce and savory toppings that honor the classic traditions of an authentic neighborhood pizzeria. Whether grabbing a quick slice on the go or settling in for a casual meal, guests find a welcoming warmth that turns a simple dinner into a cherished daily ritual.
• Horn's Hook Tavern — American · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt captures the essence of a classic tavern, where warm lighting and the convivial clinking of glasses create an inviting backdrop for shared stories and hearty fare. Guests gather over generous platters of golden, brie-stuffed pretzels and crispy house-made potato skins, while the aroma of bubbling tavern pizzas and signature wings fills the air with a sense of rustic comfort.
• Franklin Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: Franklin Pizza serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub where the comforting scent of blistered dough and molten mozzarella spills out onto the sidewalk, drawing locals into its lively, unpretentious space. Inside, the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough and the steady glow of the oven set the stage for pies topped with vibrant, herb-flecked sauces that strike a perfect balance between a smoky char and a chewy finish. Whether shared over cold drinks at a communal table or enjoyed as a quick slice on the go, every bite captures the soulful essence of a classic city pizzeria.
• The Original John's Deli — American · rated 5/5: Stepping into this legendary neighborhood staple feels like entering the heart of an old-school Brooklyn deli, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sliced meats and the lively energy of a bustling counter. Towering heroes named after cinematic icons stretch across the workspace in epic proportions, layering premium cold cuts and zesty toppings onto crusty, fresh-baked bread to create massive masterpieces that range from two to six feet in length. Every overstuffed bite captures the bold, unapologetic spirit of a local institution dedicated to the art of the grand Italian-American sandwich.
• Sociale — Italian · rated 5/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights, Sociale captures the spirit of a bustling European bistro where the clink of wine glasses provides a rhythmic backdrop to an evening of shared discovery. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into rustic, soul-warming plates designed for the center of the table, inviting guests to linger over vibrant flavors and spirited conversation.
• Brooklyn Social — American · rated 5/5: Brooklyn Social captures the soulful intersection of a moody New York lounge and a spirited Italian aperitivo bar, where low lighting and the rhythmic shake of cocktails set a sophisticated, communal tone. The bar serves as a liquid map of inspiration, from the spicy warmth of Matt’s Ginger Old Fashioned to the bright, citrusy notes of a Sicilian Fizz that evokes the cinematic charm of a Fellini classic. It is an atmospheric retreat designed for lingering over inventive pours like the smoky Blonde Mezcal Negroni, offering a refined yet effortless escape in the heart of the neighborhood.
• Cent'Anni — Italian · rated 5/5: Bathed in the golden glow of candlelight, this intimate neighborhood haunt hums with the spirited energy of a timeless Italian celebration. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into soulful plates of hand-rolled pasta and aromatic braises that pair perfectly with a glass of robust red and the warmth of shared stories. It is a sanctuary of conviviality where the clink of glasses and the scent of simmering herbs invite guests to linger long into the evening.
• Raffaello's — Italian · rated 5/5: Stepping into Raffaello’s feels like entering a sun-drenched villa in the heart of Tuscany, where the clinking of wine glasses and the rich scent of slow-simmered ragu create an atmosphere of immediate warmth. Golden ribbons of hand-rolled pasta are tossed with vibrant, seasonal ingredients, while tender proteins are finished with velvety sauces that pay homage to old-world traditions in every soulful bite.
• Brooklyn D.O.P. Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The scent of toasted sesame semolina and bubbling mozzarella fills this vibrant Brooklyn haunt, where the crackle of house-baked focaccia sets the stage for a masterclass in artisanal pizza. From the charred, thin-crust perfection of the Giusepp’ to tender meatballs nestled in homemade bread, every bite celebrates the harmony of time-honored techniques and premium ingredients like sharp, 24-month Parmigiano.
• Daily Press Ocean Hill — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood sanctuary effortlessly bridges the gap between sunrise and starlight, where the rich aroma of freshly pressed coffee eventually yields to the crisp tang of session sours and spirited tequila toasts. The kitchen serves a soulful, eclectic collection of comfort, from zesty Cubano tacos and hearty burritos to the nostalgic, coal-oven crunch of Table 87 pizza. It is a space defined by its effortless versatility, inviting guests to linger over brine-snapped pickled eggs or a nourishing grain bowl in an environment that hums with local energy.
• Numero 28 Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem invites guests into a warm, bustling space where the irresistible aroma of golden-fried arancini and simmering meatballs evokes the soulful comfort of a traditional Italian kitchen. Crisp, artfully composed salads and velvety burrata provide a refreshing counterpoint to savory classics like zesty chicken al limone, creating a dining experience that feels both timeless and celebratory.
• Circo's Pastry Shop — Italian · rated 5/5: Circo's Pastry Shop is a nostalgic haven where the sweet, nutty aroma of toasted pignoli and almond paste fills the air, inviting guests into a world of timeless Italian tradition. Vibrant tri-color rainbow cookies and jam-filled Linzer tarts are meticulously arranged into overflowing trays, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and buttery textures that turn every visit into a celebratory feast for the senses.
• Vinny's Restaurant — Italian · rated 5/5: Vinny’s Restaurant welcomes guests with the comforting embrace of a neighborhood classic, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of slow-simmered garlic and toasted herbs. Generous plates of soul-warming comfort food take center stage, from silken pastas draped in rich sauces to golden-crusted favorites that celebrate the timeless appeal of home-style cooking. Between the lively hum of conversation and the steady flow of wine, every meal feels like a seat at a bustling family table where tradition and hospitality are served in equal measure.
• La Lanterna di Vittorio — Italian · rated 5/5: Bathed in the ethereal glow of hundreds of hanging lanterns, this enchanting Greenwich Village sanctuary invites guests into a lush, year-round garden that feels worlds away from the bustling city streets. The experience celebrates the simple joys of Italian cafe culture, where the aroma of bubbling thin-crust pizzas and rich espresso mingles with the soulful strains of live jazz drifting up from the intimate subterranean lounge.