21 Best Restaurants in Little Italy, NYC in 2025
The Big Apple is a melting pot of cultures, resulting in the city being home to a diverse array of eateries, including the many globally-inspired restaurants of Little Italy, NYC. Featuring authentic Italian restaurants, places serving Italian American classics and even Australian brunch spots and Jewish delis, Little Italy is one of the most renowned culinary hot spots in the city.
But with so many options, which places should you visit first? We’re here to give you every detail about the top-rated restaurants in Little Italy that should be on every foodie’s bucket list — from the atmosphere at the best pizza spots to irresistible menu recommendations.
Whether planning a special occasion or looking for somewhere to enjoy a quick bite, these are our picks of the 21 best restaurants in Little Italy, NYC.
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The 21 Best Little Italy, NYC Restaurants
1. Parm
Celebrated restauranteurs Rich Torrisi and Mario Carbone created Parm, a restaurant near Little Italy, NYC well known for its Italian-American soul food, inspired by the dishes the two chefs ate growing up.
The Vibe
Parm is a bustling and lively diner-inspired restaurant perfect for a fun meal with friends. Step under the red and white striped awning into a small but cozy room boasting an impressive bar and unique wallpaper.
What to Order
This restaurant near Little Italy, NYC serves some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever taste! The juicy eggplant Parm and the iconic meatball Parm are both worth trying if you can’t decide what to order from the vast menu.
Parm | 248 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
2. Peasant
Experience the art of authentic cooking methods at Peasant, a restaurant around Little Italy, NYC that prepares most of its food over open fire and in wood-fired ovens. Opened in 1999, Peasant pays homage to ancient culinary techniques while putting a twist on classic Italian dishes.
The Vibe
You’ll feel transported back in time as soon as you step into Peasant’s rustic dining room. Featuring painted exposed brick walls, wooden furniture and medieval décor accents, it’s a unique place to enjoy a quiet and cozy meal.
What to Order
Enjoy a flame-grilled meal like the suckling pig with rich fennel pollen and grilled savoy cabbage. The rosette pasta with short rib, chestnut and pumpkin is also a standout.
Peasant | 194 Elizabeth St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$
3. Rubirosa
If you’re in the mood for tasty pies, visit a local, family-run favorite like Rubirosa to enjoy some of the best New York-style pizzas in the city. You’ll want to make a reservation in advance because it is one of the busiest restaurants around Little Italy, NYC.
The Vibe
Step through the quaint plant-covered doorway of this restaurant around Little Italy, NYC into a casual and lively space that’s ideal for a cozy meal with your loved ones.
What to Order
A trip to Rubirosa is not complete without a taste of the legendary Tie Dye Pizza, which includes the flavors of vodka, tomato, pesto and fresh mozzarella. Another must-try is the breakfast pizza, available on weekends, which features bacon, caramelized onions and an egg.
Rubirosa | 235 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
4. Lombardi’s
Experience the culinary magic of America’s first pizzeria at Lombardi’s. Opened in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi, this authentic spot is one of the oldest restaurants near Little Italy, NYC.
The Vibe
Lombardi’s keeps it simple with a friendly and casual atmosphere, perfect for a birthday dinner in NYC celebrated with the family. Wooden walls, vintage wallpaper and framed photos create a comfortable space for diners to take a break from the bustling city.
What to Order
You must try the original Margherita at this restaurant near Little Italy, NYC at least once. If you’re in the mood for pasta, go for the creamy chicken Parmigiana and pair it with a glass of wine or sangria from the extensive beverage menu.
Lombardi’s | 32 Spring St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
5. Gelso & Grand
Located on the corner of Mulberry and Grand is a rustic restaurant in Little Italy, NYC called Gelso & Grand. Located inside the former Italian Food Center, this eatery serves up modern twists on Italian favorites with the goal of providing a taste of Italy in the heart of New York.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC is trendy, with an upbeat and bustling energy that is perfect for a lunch with friends or a romantic date night. The large windows let plenty of natural light into the dining area, making it appear spacious and welcoming.
What to Order
The homemade pistachio pasta with fresh basil and Parmigiano is mouthwatering, as is the grilled chicken piccata.
Gelso & Grand | 186 Grand St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
6. Emilio’s Ballato
If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion then you’re going to want to pay a visit to Emilio’s Ballato. This local staple expertly serves the authentic flavors of southern Italy and has had the pleasure of hosting stars like Taylor Swift and Lenny Kravitz.
The Vibe
The welcoming and homely charm of this eatery makes it the ideal spot for a date night in NYC. The walls are covered in framed photographs capturing happy memories of past customers.
What to Order
Enjoy a simple classic like spaghetti pomodoro or go for the heartier salsiccia e broccoli di rabe — a delightful combination of sweet Italian sausage and broccoli rabe.
Emilio’s Ballato | 55 E. Houston St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$
7. Baz Bagel and Restaurant
Enjoy comforting Jewish food in the heart of Little Italy at Baz Bagel and Restaurant. Opened by Bari Musacchio and Saralyn Feinberg in 2014, this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC focuses on preparing bagels the old-fashioned way.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC, has a casual dining area with retro touches like long vinyl booths and colorful abstract art on the walls. The deli counter displays an impressive offering of bagel fillings, drawing in both dine-in and to-go customers.
What to Order
The Baz is one of the best sellers for good reason — it’s delicious! This open-face bagel sandwich features a delicious combination of salmon, scallion cream cheese, red onion and tomato. The bacon, egg and cheese bagel is another great choice.
Baz Bagel and Restaurant | 181 Grand St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
8. Pasquale Jones
Since 2016, some of the best food in Little Italy, NYC has been enjoyed at Pasquale Jones — one of many successful ventures of the Delicious Hospitality Group. This popular restaurant close to Little Italy, NYC, is known for bringing the flavors of Rome to New York City, together with an extraordinary wine selection.
The Vibe
This restaurant close to Little Italy, NYC is a trendy and hip place to dress up and meet with friends for a delicious meal. You can even watch your food being prepared before your eyes if you opt for seating at the counter
What to Order
If you’re looking for something different from a pizza, try the wood-oven cooked ricotta meatballs made with heritage pork, veal and Parmigiano. The cappelletti pasta with Japanese sweet potato is also delicious.
Pasquale Jones | 187 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$
9. IL Cortile Ristorante
If you’re looking for the best NYC foods, you’ll want to plan a visit to this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC. Family-owned IL Cortile Ristorante has been in business since 1975 and is dedicated to serving traditional Northern Italian cuisine.
The Vibe
This eatery has a vibrant and pleasant atmosphere and features a beautiful sun-lit back garden atrium. The stone indoor statues and warm lighting transport guests to an intimate Italian villa.
What to Order
The pasta at this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC is outstanding, especially the Rigatoni Speciale — a sweet sausage and shiitake mushroom mixture in a ricotta and cream sauce. If you’re in the mood for pizza, you can never go wrong with the cheesy and slightly spicy pepperoni pie.
IL Cortile Ristorante | 125 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10013 | $$$
10. Emporio
Be transported to the streets of Rome from the heart of New York City at Emporio. This restaurant around Little Italy, NYC opened in 2009, offering diners an authentic Italian dining experience with a flexible menu. From pizza and pasta to juicy steaks, there’s something for everyone at this family-friendly restaurant in NYC.
The Vibe
A relaxed and rustic setting with brick walls and skylights makes this restaurant near Little Italy, NYC a great choice for enjoying a casual meal after work with friends and family.
What to Order
Enjoy a traditional sausage pasta dish that will be hard to come by at other restaurants in Little Italy, NYC — the rigatoni Norcina. The NY strip tagliata is a good choice for an American-inspired meal.
Emporio | 231 Mott St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$
11. Da Nico Ristorante
This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC is a must-visit for tourists looking to experience authentic New York-style Italian cuisine. Since 1993, Da Nico Ristorante has proudly served countless New Yorkers, including many local celebrities.
The Vibe
Step under the iconic red awning into a lively, casual dining space. A domed white ceiling, red brick walls and dark furnishings create a classy but relaxed experience. The outdoor area contrasts with yellow walls and vintage rattan chairs.
What to Order
If you like seafood and pasta combined, you must try the linguine vongole, which features clams served in a fresh red or white sauce. Another popular dish is the pollo rollatini, which features the cheesy goodness of prosciutto and mozzarella stuffed inside a chicken breast, all covered in a marsala mushroom sauce.
Da Nico Ristorante | 164 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
12. Manero's of Mulberry
There’s no shortage of pizza places in New York City, but if you’re looking for some of the best options, you’ll want to pay a visit to Manero’s of Mulberry. This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC was named after “Saturday Night Fever’s” Tony Manero, played by John Travolta, and is a hot spot for great pizza and friendly service.
The Vibe
This Saturday Night Fever-themed restaurant in Little Italy, NYC is upbeat, lively and full of everything a fan of the film would love. There is limited seating, so be sure to get there early.
What to Order
If you want to taste some of the best pizza in NYC, you can’t visit this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC without trying the spicy sopressata — which has a touch of garlic added to a rich and flavorful salami.
Manero's of Mulberry | 113 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10013 | $
13. Ferrara Bakery & Café
Another famed pâtisserie in the area you need to visit is Ferrara Bakery & Café. In 1892, Enrico Scoppa and Antonio Ferrara opened this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC, with the idea of serving marvelous cakes and cookies in a relaxed space.
The Vibe
Retro checkered tiles and wooden walls give this bustling restaurant in Little Italy, NYC an upbeat and nostalgic atmosphere. The long row of display counters is the centerpiece of the restaurant, tempting customers will all kinds of sweet treats.
What to Order
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in the right place. The creamy tiramisu soaked in coffee liqueur and espresso is delicious as are the sfogliatella and cannoli, all made using authentic recipes.
Ferrara Bakery & Café | 195 Grand St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
14. Caffé Palermo
When considering which restaurants in Little Italy, NYC to visit, a stop at Caffé Palermo to visit the Cannoli King — Baby John has to be on your list! Since 1973, this popular tourist destination has been serving some of the best pastries in the city.
The Vibe
This bustling and lively restaurant in Little Italy, NYC has rows and rows of display cases filled with delicious pastries for you to choose from.
What to Order
You cannot visit Caffé Palermo without ordering some cannoli! Your choices are endless, from miniature bite-sized options to dreamy chocolate-dipped cannoli.
Caffé Palermo | 148 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
15. Little Ruby’s Café
Are you looking for Australian cuisine in New York City? Then you’ve got to visit Little Ruby’s Café. This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC was opened in 2002 to combine Australian cooking with contemporary techniques, resulting in unmatched culinary masterpieces.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC has a modern vibe thanks to colorful floral wallpaper and bright pink neon sign. Inside, you’ll generally find stylish patrons enjoying a meal with friends.
What to Order
Start your day off strong with the crispy rice bowl, packed with parsley, scallions, egg and halloumi, amongst other nutritious ingredients.
Little Ruby’s Café | 219 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
16. Estela
Talented Chef Ignacio Mattos opened Estela in 2013 and since then, this beloved restaurant near Little Italy, NYC has been awarded one Michelin star and a host of other accolades. It serves a fusion of American-Italian cuisine that caters to every taste.
The Vibe
This stylish restaurant near Little Italy, NYC is perfect for a bustling night out with friends or late-night drinks at the bar. Moody dark furniture, exposed brick walls and low-hanging lights make it a fashionable place to be.
What to Order
Although the lunch and dinner menus change fairly frequently, one of the most popular dishes on the menu is the ricotta dumplings with mushrooms and pecorino Sardo.
Estela | 47 E. Houston St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$$
17. Caffé Roma
Since 1891, Caffé Roma has been serving some of the best food in Little Italy, NYC. This quaint bakery is well-loved among locals looking to enjoy a delicious coffee with a fresh pastry while doing a bit of people-watching.
The Vibe
You’ll feel like you’re in a charming and laid-back bakery in Italy as soon as you step into Caffé Roma despite being right in the middle of bustling New York City. Rich emerald green walls with quaint vintage café chairs transport guests back to a simpler time.
What to Order
Whether you prefer the flavors of chocolate, hazelnut or strawberry, the cake varieties served at this restaurant in Little Italy, NYC are delectable, to say the least.
Caffé Roma | 385 Broome St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
18. Di Palo’s
When you think about Italian food in New York City, there’s a good chance Di Palo’s will come to mind. That’s because this establishment has been around since the early 1900s and is renowned for its fresh cheese, cured meats and handmade pasta. This iconic Italian specialty store also has a wine bar next door for after-market hours.
The Vibe
A small but bustling specialty store stocked from floor to ceiling with Italian goodies in clear display fridges or wooden cabinets. Be prepared to wait in line because this place gets busy very quickly.
What to Order
You can pick up meals like a full platter with imported cheeses and cured meats, burrata on top of arugula salad and massive stuffed sandwiches.
Di Palo’s | 200 Grand St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
19. Torrisi Bar & Restaurant
Located in the historic Puck Building is Torrisi Bar & Restaurant, a fan-favorite among New Yorkers and another excellent venture of Major Food Group. This restaurant close to Little Italy, NYC specializes in soul-satisfying Italian food and has a Michelin star to back up its exquisite cuisine.
The Vibe
Torrisi is a trendy and modern restaurant close to Little Italy, NYC that is best suited for a classy date night. Be sure to reserve your table in advance because this is one of the more popular eateries in the area.
What to Order
Dishes you need to try at least once are the East Coast oysters and the linguine in a pink Manhattan clam sauce. Enjoy your meal with a glass of wine from the impressive menu.
Torrisi Bar & Restaurant | 275 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$$
20. La Compagnie
If you’re a wine lover, we highly recommend checking out La Compagnie. This restaurant in Little Italy, NYC brings a piece of Paris to the streets of New York and serves wines from around the world, including those from Lebanon, Israel and Brazil.
The Vibe
La Compagnie is an intimate and modern wine bar with marble furnishings and exposed brick walls. It’s the perfect restaurant in Little Italy, NYC for a night out with friends.
What to Order
Pair your favorite glass of wine with dishes like grilled cheese, roasted chile prawns or a classic French beef tartare served over warm bone marrow.
La Compagnie | 249 Centre St., New York, NY 10013 | $$$
21. Figo Il Gelato Italiano
You can’t make a trip to the Little Italy area and not stop at Figo Il Gelato Italiano for a scoop of your favorite flavor. This restaurant near Little Italy, NYC was opened by an Italian immigrant who wanted to serve authentic gelato to transport visitors to the streets of Italy.
The Vibe
This tiny restaurant near Little Italy, NYC has a modern feel thanks to white walls paired with light natural wood. The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching while enjoying a cup of gelato.
What to Order
Popular gelato flavors at this restaurant close to Little Italy, NYC include the the frutti di bosco (mixed berry), nerone (80% dark chocolate) and tiramisu.
Figo Il Gelato Italiano | 178 Mulberry St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
Other Fun Culinary Experiences in NYC
New York City is truly a foodie’s city and with so many cultures mixing in one place, the culinary scene is as exciting as it is limitless. To experience the best of what the city has to offer, join food tours in NYC and uncover some hidden gems with the help of an expert local guide.
You can also discover how to recreate some of your favorite dishes from eateries in the Big Apple by joining cooking classes in NYC. These hands-on sessions allow you to immerse yourself in new ways to prepare gourmet food under the guidance of a professional chef.
There’s no doubt about it — the food scene in New York City is buzzing and just waiting to be explored. If you’re looking to enjoy the culinary masterpieces of Italy without hopping on a plane, now you know you’re in luck! With so many iconic restaurants in Little Italy, NYC to choose from, all that’s left to do is decide which one you’ll be visiting first.
For even more ways to explore NYC and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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