Best Upscale Pasta in Little Italy | Top 10 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Pasta in Little Italy | Top 10 Upscale Spots

• 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.
• 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.
• Song’ E Napule — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Song’ E Napule captures the boisterous, sun-drenched spirit of Naples, where the rhythmic clatter of plates and the intoxicating aroma of wood-fired crusts fill a space adorned with vibrant azure accents and spirited soccer memorabilia. Diners dive into pillowy Neapolitan pizzas and silken pastas that sing with the brightness of San Marzano tomatoes, all served with a passionate energy that transforms a simple meal into a lively Mediterranean escape.
• 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.
• Torrisi — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Torrisi pulses with the vibrant, high-octane energy of a modern New York landmark, where the historic charm of the Puck Building meets a glamorous dining room anchored by the theatrical hum of an open kitchen. The experience serves as a sophisticated love letter to Italian-American heritage, weaving together the nostalgic aromas of a traditional deli with masterfully refined plates that elevate soul-warming flavors into something truly cinematic.
• Misirizzi — Italian · rated 4.6/5: This charming neighborhood escape wraps guests in a warm embrace of rustic textures and soft, amber light, setting a whimsical stage for soulful Italian cooking. Hand-rolled pastas take center stage, tossed in vibrant, herb-flecked sauces that celebrate the seasons alongside crisp wines and effervescent spritzes. The atmosphere hums with the convivial spirit of a modern trattoria, inviting diners to linger over the comforting aromas of freshly baked focaccia and slow-simmered ragu.
• 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.
• Il Corallo Trattoria — Italian · rated 4.5/5: This bustling neighborhood gem hums with the vibrant energy of a classic trattoria, where the intoxicating aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs drifts through a warmly lit, art-filled dining room. Plates of al dente pasta tossed with briny shellfish and rich, slow-simmered sauces celebrate the bold, sun-soaked flavors of the Italian coast, creating a spirited experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal. It is a soulful sanctuary where the clink of wine glasses and the hum of lively conversation turn every meal into a joyous celebration of the Mediterranean table.
• 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.
• 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
• Tre Giovani — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into Tre Giovani feels like entering a sun-drenched kitchen in the heart of Italy, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of simmering pomodoro and toasted garlic. Guests linger over plates of silken, hand-rolled pasta and vibrant antipasti in an intimate space that hums with the warmth of genuine hospitality and lively conversation. It is a soulful retreat where every bite celebrates the timeless marriage of fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional culinary craft.
• Paesano's — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Paesano’s captures the heart of a spirited Italian kitchen, where the air is heavy with the comforting aroma of roasted garlic and the vibrant zing of hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Guests settle into a warm, inviting space to savor velvety handmade pastas and crusty, herb-dusted loaves that celebrate the simple beauty of old-world craftsmanship. It is a soulful retreat where every pour of Chianti and every shared plate feels like an invitation into a lively, timeless family tradition.
• Senza Gluten — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Sunlight dances across white tablecloths in this intimate sanctuary, where the comforting aroma of garlic and fresh basil invites guests to rediscover the soulful joy of Italian tradition. Velvety pastas and crusty, artisanal breads arrive with a rustic elegance that defies expectation, offering a seamless dining experience where the absence of gluten is felt only in the lightness of the meal and the inclusive warmth of the table.
• 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.
• Rosella’s Pizza — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Rosella’s Pizza captures the heart of a classic Italian kitchen, where the rhythmic toss of dough and the golden glow of the oven create a backdrop for lively neighborhood gatherings. Each slice offers a symphony of textures, from the airy, blistered crust to the rich swirl of tangy tomato sauce and molten cheese that brings a taste of Old World tradition to every table.
• Vincent's — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Vincent’s invites guests into a sanctuary of old-world charm, where the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough and the rich aroma of slow-simmered marinara create an atmosphere of effortless warmth. Here, golden candlelight flickers against exposed brick as plates of silken pasta and herb-crusted proteins arrive, turning a simple dinner into a soulful celebration of Italian heritage.
• Zara Pizza — Italian · rated 4.2/5: Step into a warm, flour-dusted sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of wood-smoke and bubbling San Marzano tomatoes signals a true devotion to the craft of the perfect pie. Each pizza emerges from the glowing oven with a beautifully charred, leopard-spotted crust, topped with hand-torn basil and creamy mozzarella to create a vibrant dining experience that captures the soulful essence of a neighborhood Italian kitchen.
• Ballato — Italian · rated 4.1/5: Stepping into this intimate sanctuary feels like a journey back in time, where the air is heavy with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered marinara and toasted garlic. Beneath the warm glow of vintage lighting, guests gather over plates of silken pasta and robust classics that celebrate the timeless artistry of the Italian kitchen. It is a place where the clink of wine glasses and the hum of spirited conversation create a soulful atmosphere, turning every meal into a cherished neighborhood tradition.
• La Nonna — Italian · rated 4.1/5: La Nonna transports diners to the heart of a rustic Italian home, where the comforting scent of slow-simmered ragù and toasted garlic wafts through a space glowing with candlelight and old-world charm. Silken, hand-shaped pastas and vibrant seasonal plates celebrate the timeless art of the family table, inviting guests to linger over bottles of ruby-red wine and crusty, hearth-baked bread. The atmosphere hums with a soulful warmth, turning every meal into a heartfelt embrace that honors the rich, culinary traditions of the Mediterranean.
• Umberto’s Clam House — Italian · rated 4.1/5: This legendary Little Italy cornerstone pulses with the vibrant energy of old-school New York, where the neon glow of Mulberry Street illuminates a dining room filled with the spirited clatter of shells and conversation. The air is thick with the briny aroma of fresh seafood and simmering garlic, as guests dive into overflowing platters of linguine drenched in a signature spicy marinara that captures the bold, soulful essence of Italian-American tradition.
• Kissaki — Japanese · rated 4/5: Kissaki invites diners into a world of refined Japanese artistry, where the rhythmic precision of the sushi counter meets a contemporary, high-energy atmosphere. Guests embark on a multi-course omakase journey that balances tradition with playful luxury, featuring indulgent creations like velvet-smooth Toro Sundaes and decadent Uni Pasta that linger on the palate. Whether seated for an intimate table-side experience or a full chef-led progression, every bite celebrates the harmony of premium ingredients and meticulous technique.
• Il Buco Alimentari — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a sun-drenched Italian marketplace where the scent of freshly baked bread and bubbling wood-fired pizzas fills the air, inviting guests to linger over rustic wooden tables. Hand-stretched dough meets vibrant toppings like spicy green olives and savory pepperoni, while crusty panini overflow with paper-thin prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and marinated eggplant for a true taste of old-world craftsmanship. It is a vibrant culinary sanctuary that celebrates the simplicity of high-quality ingredients, offering a soulful escape where every bite feels like a journey to the heart of Italy.
• Misirizzi — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant Italian hideaway captures the essence of a soulful feast, where the table is laden with golden-crisped artichokes and delicate plates of raw fluke dressed in bright, clean flavors. The kitchen breathes life into tradition through the heart-warming layers of "Grandmother’s" lasagna and the velvety richness of hand-folded pumpkin cappelletti, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and deeply nostalgic.
• Pasquale Jones — Italian · rated 3/5: Pasquale Jones hums with an effortless urban energy, where the glow of the open kitchen illuminates a space dedicated to the vibrant, seasonal flavors of the Mediterranean. Crisp market chicories and delicate fennel salads provide a bright, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich depth of tender ricotta meatballs and the smoky sweetness of wood-charred red prawns. The experience is one of refined simplicity, where every plate—from the silken tuna crudo to the brittle crunch of pane carasau—celebrates the beauty of pristine ingredients handled with expert care.
• Parm — Italian · rated 3/5: Step into a spirited celebration of Italian-American comfort, where retro charm meets a modern pulse and the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling mozzarella. The kitchen turns out elevated renditions of soul-warming classics, from shatteringly crisp zucchini and herb-flecked pesto arancini to tender, sauce-drenched meatballs that anchor a table meant for sharing. Zesty buffalo cucumbers and vibrant, leafy salads provide a bright, crunchy counterpoint to the indulgent, golden-fried starters, creating a lively dining experience that feels like a perpetual neighborhood celebration.
• Cotenna — Italian · rated 3/5: Cotenna captures the rustic soul of an Italian enoteca, where the warm glow of the dining room sets the stage for a parade of vibrant, small-plate treasures. The air is thick with the aroma of garlic-kissed shrimp and earthy mushroom bruschetta, inviting guests to share in everything from delicate crab tarts to succulent, herb-crusted lamb chops. It is a place of spirited conversation and lingering pours of wine, where every bite feels like a curated journey through the sun-soaked flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Pepe Rosso — Italian: Pepe Rosso captures the essence of a spirited neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the aroma of bubbling cheese and rich, simmering sauces. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between classic comfort and modern flair, offering everything from silk-smooth Tortellini Gorgonzola to inventive pizzas layered with smoky BBQ chicken and earthy mushrooms. It is a place where wholesome ingredients like roasted butternut squash and whole-grain pastas are transformed into soulful, satisfying meals that linger long after the final bite.
• Bacaro — Italian: Bacaro captures the spirited essence of a Venetian wine bar, where the clinking of glasses and the vibrant colors of seasonal produce create an inviting, lively hum. Plates of buttery Castelvetrano olives and marbled bresaola share the table with crisp, garden-fresh salads and steaming bowls of hearty pasta and bean soup, celebrating the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. It is a space designed for lingering over a glass of wine and a spread of savory bar snacks, offering a refined yet relaxed escape that feels both timeless and contemporary.
• Da Nico — Italian: Da Nico invites guests into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the comforting scent of hand-stretched dough and bubbling mozzarella. Artisanal pizzas emerge from the heat with perfectly charred crusts, ranging from the classic simplicity of a bright Margherita to the bold, sweet-and-spicy harmony of honey-drizzled pies and velvety vodka-sauced creations. Whether sharing a crisp, herb-dusted focaccia or savoring the seasonal layers of a Quattro Stagioni, diners find a lively sanctuary where traditional Italian soul meets a spirited, modern flair.