Best Italian Restaurants in New York, New York

T. H. Pankey
"When the moon hits you eye like a-big pizza pie
That's Amore
When the world seems to shine like you've too much wine
That's Amore."

"A bottle of red, a bottle of white
It all depends upon your appetite
I'll meet you anytime you want
At our Italian restaurant."

A list of the best Italian restaurants in New York, New York is subjective at best. As many good Italian restaurants as there are in New York, it would be almost impossible to isolate three as the best of the best. There are just too many variables involved, and even if you were to eliminate them, and make all things equal, then it comes down to a matter of opinion. Nevertheless, in no particular order, following is a list of best Italian restaurants in New York, New York.

Best Italian Restaurants in New York, New York ( Barbetta )

Barbetta is not only the oldest Italian restaurant in New York that is still owned by its founding family, but the oldest restaurants of all restaurants in New York that is still owned by its founding family. It doesn't stop there. Barbetta is the oldest Italian restaurant in New York, and the oldest restaurant in the Theater District. Yes, you should call ahead for reservations. And yes, this is a restaurant where price isn't discussed beforehand, even when settling your bill when leaving.

What Italian cuisine will you be enjoying at Barbetta? Piemontese. Look for the Fonduta and Carne Cruda dishes, as well as Piemonte's traditional white truffle dish. Equal to its main dishes, if not more so, Barbetta is known for its deserts.

Best Italian Restaurants in New York, New York ( Borgo Antico )

Giovanni Iovine, went from growing up in Naples, Italy, to becoming a mere busboy in New York, in 1988, and by the time 1995 rolled around he became the proud partner-owner of Borgo Antico.

What can you expect at Borgo Antico, a relaxing atmosphere yet a first rate fine dining experience. That's a great combination!

What to look for on the menu: SaltimBocca Di Maiall ( Pork Loin Scallopini with Prosciutto, sage & white wine sauce, served with potatoes sauté & spinach )

Ask the waiter to recommend a wine. Perfectly pairing wines with dinner is how Borgo Antico is known.

Prices are excellent for what you get in this fine dining experience.

Best Italian Restaurants in New York, New York ( Carmines )

You can't have a list of Italian restaurants without having a restaurant that's great for the whole family. Big Italian families and restaurants go hand-in-hand.

Carmines is a restaurant that you may have to wait to get in, but is well worth the wait. At least the location in the Theater District is well worth the wait. Prices reflect family size servings.

Carmines is large plates of Southern Italian food. Bring the whole family, be prepared to loosen up your belt and bring home the to-go bags.

Be sure to order the spicy calamari and marina appetizer, if you're a lover of calamari.

Published by T. H. Pankey - Featured Contributor in Movies

Lifetime lover of lemonade, iced tea, cafe au lait, and especially food had in New Orleans and New York, T. H. Pankey has worked in a number of restaurants--including one of the oldest and finest dining esta...  View profile

5 Comments

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  • Rich Thomas6/23/2009

    I will have to keep these in mind the next time I'm there. I have a favorite pizzeria, but nothing beyond that.

  • Gillian Wilk6/17/2009

    I liked your choices!

  • Sherri Thornhill6/17/2009

    I think Carmine's is the great Italian place I went to when I was in NYC..delicious food! Good write up, but now I'm craving Italian!lol

  • Michael Segers6/17/2009

    Brave man... to dare to list the best Italian restaurants in NYC!

  • John Myers6/17/2009

    Good choices T.H.! Carmine's is one of my favorites!

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