12+ Must-Try Italian Restaurants in Manhattan

Vishesh Sharma
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Planning your first trip to New York City? Then discovering the best Italian restaurants in Manhattan is a must. From cozy neighborhood gems to Michelin-starred favorites, this borough is packed with incredible places to eat pasta, sip wine, and experience real Italian flavor. Whether you’re craving classic lasagna or handmade gnocchi, this list is curated especially for first time travelers looking to eat well and explore like a local.

The Best Italian Restaurants in Manhattan for First Time Travelers

Rezdôra

If you’re exploring Manhattan for the first time and want to experience truly refined Italian cuisine, Rezdôra should top your list. This Flatiron favorite is inspired by the flavors of Emilia-Romagna and specializes in handmade pasta that’s delicate, rich, and full of character. The space is warm and elegant, and the tasting menus are especially great for first-timers looking to try a bit of everything.

Via Carota

Italian restaurants in Manhattan
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Tucked into a charming West Village street, Via Carota feels like stepping into a rustic trattoria in Tuscany. Known for its seasonal veggie dishes and handmade pastas, this spot has a cozy atmosphere that makes you want to linger. It’s walk-in only, so be prepared to wait — but trust us, it’s worth every minute.

I Sodi

Italian dish at nyc
Photo via @isodinyc / Instagram

If you’re the type of traveler who loves hidden gems, I Sodi is your place. This intimate Tuscan restaurant is all about simplicity done right — with standout dishes like their cult-favorite artichoke lasagna and lemon pasta. The vibe is romantic, the wine list is excellent, and the food is consistently on point.

Marea

Italian restaurants in Manhattan
Photo via @marearestaurants / Instagram

Steps from Central Park, Marea is where upscale seafood meets handmade pasta in true Italian fashion. This Michelin-starred spot is perfect for a splurge night, especially if you want something memorable. The lobster and burrata fusilli is legendary — and the views of Columbus Circle don’t hurt either.

Emilio’s Ballato

A no-frills icon that’s hosted everyone from musicians to politicians, Emilio’s Ballato is a must-visit for lovers of old-school Italian. It’s got dim lighting, classic red sauce dishes, and a strong New York vibe. Come for the spaghetti pomodoro, stay for the atmosphere — it’s as classic as it gets.

L’Artusi

Italian restaurants in Manhattan
Photo via @lartusi / Instagram

For a modern, sleek take on Italian, L’Artusi is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s stylish without being stuffy, and the food is consistently outstanding — especially their ricotta gnocchi and olive oil cake. Perfect for a date night or dinner with friends after exploring the West Village.

Monte’s Trattoria

This Greenwich Village classic has been serving hearty Italian meals since 1918, and it still feels like a neighborhood secret. Monte’s is cozy, welcoming, and full of charm — the kind of place where the waiters remember your name. The veal marsala and cannelloni are favorites, especially if you’re in the mood for comforting, old-school flavors.

Il Melograno

Il Melograno in Hell’s Kitchen is intimate and warm, with a loyal local following. The menu leans Sicilian with house-made pasta, seafood risotto, and standout ravioli. First-timers love the friendly staff and casual vibe — it’s a great choice for a relaxed dinner before or after a Broadway show.

Salumeria Rosi

Tucked into the Upper West Side, Salumeria Rosi is part delicatessen, part refined Italian bistro. It’s ideal for a cozy lunch or early dinner, with small plates, cured meats, and perfectly cooked pasta dishes. Try their carbonara — it’s one of the best in the city.

Piccola Cucina Osteria

Photo via @piccolacucinany / Instagram

This SoHo staple brings a lively Sicilian spirit to every dish — and to the space itself. Expect friendly staff, strong olive oil, and bold flavors in everything from their seafood pasta to arancini. It’s small and always buzzing, so reservations help, especially for dinner.

Torrisi

Italian restaurants in Manhattan
Photo via @majorfoodgroup / Instagram

Located in the heart of Nolita, Torrisi is a fine-dining Italian spot that merges tradition with creativity. Dishes are elevated and plated to impress, but the flavors are always familiar — think garlic knots and mozzarella with a luxury twist. Ideal for special occasions or serious food lovers.

Antica Ristorante

This Downtown favorite serves up classic Southern Italian comfort food in an elegant setting. The staff is warm, the pasta is fresh, and the wine list is full of Italian gems. It’s a great pick for business dinners, date nights, or a quiet meal with family while visiting Manhattan.

Babbo Ristorante

Owned by Mario Carbone’s restaurant group, Babbo is refined and romantic — think truffle pasta and olive oil gelato in a classic brownstone setting. It’s not cheap, but the experience feels quintessentially New York and very Italian. Book ahead if you can — this one’s in high demand.

For first-time travelers, discovering the right Italian restaurants in Manhattan can be a total game-changer. From cozy trattorias tucked into quiet corners to buzzed-about fine dining spots, the city delivers a true taste of Italy in every bite. Whether you’re craving carbonara, fresh gnocchi, or just soaking in that warm, welcoming ambiance, these Italian restaurants in Manhattan are the perfect places to start your NYC food journey.

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