Are you looking for the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC? If so, keep reading for our recommendations!

If you’re on the hunt for the best places to eat in Little Italy, then we have good news. You’ve come to the right place.

As people who consider ‘eating in NYC’ their primary hobby, we think you’ll find some pretty awesome suggestions for places to eat in Little Italy on this list.

The great things about finding the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC, is that you know you’re headed to a neighbourhood dedicated to the one of the best food cuisines.

Italian food is everywhere in Little Italy, and it’s basically like stepping into foodie heaven (but you knew that already). 

So, let’s get started on this list of places to eat in Little Italy! 


Here are the best places to eat in Little Italy!


Rubirosa

At the top of our list of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC? It’s Rubirosa. If you didn’t already know, these guys are known for their enormous, cheesy pizzas.

Inspired by old family recipes, this authentic Italian restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC. 

Although pizzas are by far the standout items on the menu here, you’ll also spot several Italian-American classics and incredible pastas too.

Fresh food is the name of the game at Rubirosa, so whatever you order, you’re guaranteed to enjoy it. 

Some restaurants in Little Italy can be slightly pretentious, but Rubirosa has a charming, family vibe that welcomes anyone and everyone.

So, if you’re looking for the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC that will invite you in with open arms, then Rubirosa is unlikely to disappoint! It’s definitely one of our top choices for the best places to eat in Little Italy. 

Read more NYC food inspiration: What is the best pizza in New York City

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/rubirosa_nyc/

Il Cortile

Il Cortile’s atmosphere is truly as glorious as the food it serves up, and it’s next on our list of the best places to eat in Little Italy.

Known as one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC, Il Cortile is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Having been a staple in the area for over 40 years, the staff at Il Cortile know how to treat their guests. 

Each dish here features only the finest seasonal ingredients, making each dish incredibly fresh and satisfying.

We recommend starting with the Avocado Bruschetta and moving swiftly on to one of the classic favorites. The Fettucine di Parma and Gamberi Fantasia are major standouts and make this one of the best places to eat in Little Italy.

If the a la carte menu doesn’t take your fancy (we’d be surprised if this was the case!), then you’ll certainly be taken by the various wines and cocktails on offer here.

Offering several imported wines and unique drinks that suit every palate, Il Cortile is the perfect spot at which to drink the night away, and one of the best places to eat in Little Italy. 

Image credit: https://www.ilcortile.com/

Emilio’s Ballato

Next on our list of the best places to eat in Little Italy, it’s Emilio’s Ballato. Those looking for proper, traditional Italian eats will appreciate Emilio’s Ballato.

Each dish here is incredibly authentic and is always cooked to order. Expect the classic dishes you love like Bolognese and ravioli. 

However, you’ll also be treated to more unique dishes like sauteed shrimp and clams! There’s a dish here for every taste, so even the pickiest eaters will be able to live out their Italian fantasy.

Read more NYC food recommendations: Where to find the best bagels in NYC

Though the food is excellent here, it’s not the only reason that Emilio’s Ballato is considered one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC.

The atmosphere is just lovely. With friendly staff and cozy décor, it’s the perfect spot to settle in for a relaxed evening of wining and dining. This is definitely one of the best places to eat in Little Italy. 


Gelso & Grand

If you’re looking for modern and sophisticated Italian cuisine, then Gelso & Grand is a great place to check out.

This is definitely one of the most impressive places to eat in Little Italy, with homemade pasta dishes (delicious!) and a spacious and stylish setting.

It’s a great choice for a date night, and you can guarantee the food will be absolutely perfecto!

This place also serve up ‘the biggest cannolis in Little Italy’ so if you’ve got a sweet tooth, this place is going to be a big hit! This is a perfect choice for places to eat in Little Italy.

Read more about NYC: Top 22 best restaurants in Greenwich Village, NYC

Image credit: https://gelsoandgrand.com/

Parm

Our next recommendation for the best places to eat in Little Italy, is Parm. Parm is slightly different to the other restaurants we’ve mentioned on our list of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC.

Parm is technically a chain with multiple locations around the city. However, despite being a franchise, it retains an earthy authenticity that diners love. 

Whether you fancy a classic deli sandwich or want to refuel with a large helping of their famous meatballs, Parm has got you covered.

The prices here are incredibly reasonable, making it one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC for those on a budget. 

Image credit: https://www.parmitalian.com/

La Bella Ferrara

If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC – then you won’t want to miss out on this family style traditional bakery called La Bella Ferrara.

This place is packed full of beautiful little bakery treats, the kind you’d find in a rustric family bakery in the heart of a tiny Italian town.

It’s somewhere you won’t want to miss out on, and it’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to quickly sample some of Little Italy’s food, but you don’t have time for a sit-down meal!

Read more about exploring NYC: A guide to Little Tokyo in NYC


Piacere NYC

Those who live and breathe organic will appreciate the thought put into the dishes at Piacere NYC, which is our next suggestion for the best places to eat in Little Italy.

These guys will stop at nothing until you’re satisfied, and they pride themselves on their organic ingredients and sustainable food.

You won’t find fancy Italian food here; the owners proudly preach that they offer simple, authentic, and organic Italian cuisine. 

However, what you will get are the most beautifully crunchy thin-crust pizzas in NYC. What’s more, none of the portions here will leave you overwhelmed.

All individually sized, the food here will leave you satisfied, but not full-to-bursting. Ah, the dream. It’s such a perfect choice for the best places to eat in Little Italy. 

Image credit: https://www.instagram.com/piacerenyc/

Ferrara Bakery

Ferrara Bakery is our next location for the best places to eat in Little Italy. If you’re looking for something slightly different, then be sure to pay Ferrara Bakery a visit.

You won’t find main meals and piping-hot pizzas here, but you will find gorgeously decorated cakes and traditional Italian desserts. 

This is one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC after you’ve devoured a large plate of pasta at one of the other restaurants.

It’s a great spot to stop by and stock up on delicious treats to eat back at your apartment or hotel. 

Offering up the best Italian pastries and sweet treats in the city, this spot is not to be missed. If you’re struggling to decide what to order, then place an order for the Cannolis!

We hear they’re famous around these parts… It’s a great choice for places to eat in Little Italy.

Read more NYC food recommendations: 50 amazing places to grab breakfast in NYC

Image credit: http://www.ferraranyc.com/

Forlini’s

Without a doubt, Forlini’s is one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC. Located on Baxter Street, this wonderful little gem serves up some of the finest Italian food in the area.

It’s sometimes difficult to find the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC, as many are tourist traps that serve up average food that’s not worth the cash. Not at Forlini’s. Here you’ll find delicious drinks, pizzas, and possibly the dreamiest lasagna in the world. 

If you want to dine here, then we highly recommend snagging a reservation. These guys are extremely popular, and during peak periods it’s near impossible to get a table! It’s one of the best places to eat in Little Italy. 


Aunt Jake’s

Another brilliant recommendation for the best places to eat in Little Italy, is Aunt Jake’s. Are you on the hunt for the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC?

If so, you need to add Aunt Jake’s to your list of places to try. This hip spot not only serves delicious fresh pastas, but it also provides the perfect location for young New Yorkers to chill out at. 

The airy décor is ideal for a casual lunch but transforms equally well into a cozy spot for dinnertime. Be sure to take a photo of your food before tucking in at Aunt Jake’s.

The impeccably presented food deserves a snap or two, trust us! It’s a wonderful choice for the best places to eat in Little Italy. 

Image credit: https://auntjakesnyc.com/

Lombardi’s

Are you looking for the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC? Well, you need to try Lombardi’s!

Not only is this American’s oldest Pizzeria (it was started by Italian Immigrant Gennaro Lombardi way back in 1905!), but it’s known for its delectable smoky-crusted oven baked pizza that’s always made with top-tier ingredients. Think delicious tomato sauce, whole milk mozzarella and plenty of basil.  

Read more NYC food recommendations: Where to find the best pancakes in NYC

This old pizzeria is slightly dated, but it continues to be one of the best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC. With friendly staff, great food, and a charming atmosphere, it’s a safe choice for Italian food in the area. 

Read more NYC food recommendations: Top 17 Koreatown restaurants in NYC


Grotta Azzurra

If you’re looking for traditional places to eat in Little Italy, then we think you’ll love Grotta Azzurra.

It has a lovely atmosphere and setting to enjoy some traditional and delicious Italian food, and it’s an old-school style, which gives you the impression of being in Italy itself.

It’s one of those cosy neighborhood restaurants, where you’ll find visitors and locals alike.

Image credit: http://bluegrotta.com/

Hopefully this list of the best places to eat in Little Italy has been helpful – and even made you feel a little hungry! 

Whichever place you decide to try… You can be sure you’re in for a delicious feast of Italian tastes and flavours. Little Italy is one of the best neighbourhoods in NYC for great food and drink, so be sure to stop by one of these best places to eat in Little Italy.