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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Lower East Side

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64 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC restaurant
1. Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC
4.6
Exceptional(29869)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Theater District
Booked 542 times today
Carmine's on 44th Street in NYC's Theater District embodies the essence of Southern Italian cuisine, offering a dining experience akin to an Italian American wedding feast. Guests rave about the "abundant portions" and "authentic flavors," highlighting dishes like the "best chicken Parm ever" and "fantastic lasagna." Known for its family-style servings, Carmine's creates a convivial atmosphere where "every meal feels like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's." Reviewers consistently praise the "amazing atmosphere" and "excellent service," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a traditional yet exceptional Italian meal in the heart of Times Square.
A photo of Cecconi's Dumbo restaurant
2. Cecconi's Dumbo
4.6
Exceptional(5267)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • DUMBO
Booked 176 times today
Cecconi's Dumbo, nestled in the picturesque DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn, offers a sublime Mediterranean dining experience that harmonizes beautifully with its stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline. This restaurant is celebrated for its "delicious Mediterranean classics like the Roman style gnocchi and risotto" that transport diners straight to Italy with each bite. Reviewers consistently rave about the authenticity and quality of the cuisine, noting dishes like "octopus, tuna tartare Cecconi’s style, and zucchini Fritti" as must-tries. A guest highlighted, "If you wanna taste real Italian food, this is the place!" With its "fabulous view and great service," Cecconi's Dumbo promises not just a meal, but a memorable Mediterranean feast that's always "on point."
A photo of Il Fiorista restaurant
3. Il Fiorista
4.5
Awesome(260)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • NoMad
Booked 26 times today
Il Fiorista in NoMad, New York, is a Mediterranean culinary gem that truly stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity. Nestled just a short walk from Madison Square Park, this restaurant excels in incorporating fresh, local, and seasonal produce into its dishes, much like traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Guests rave about their experiences, with one noting, "the food was absolutely delicious, every bite was so yummy and stunningly presented!" Another guest praised the restaurant's ambiance and service, saying, "the design evokes the calm beauty of the flowers that give its name, the service is impeccable and warm." At Il Fiorista, the attention to detail, from the botanical ingredients to the beautifully crafted dishes, ensures a Mediterranean dining experience that is both delightful and memorable.
A photo of Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience restaurant
4. Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience
4.9
Exceptional(817)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side
Booked 17 times today
Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience on New York’s Upper East Side offers a truly authentic and interactive Italian dining adventure. Renowned for its hands-on pasta-making classes followed by a delectable 3-course meal, Aunt Jake's ensures every guest not only eats like an Italian but learns the art too. Patrons rave about the quality and ambiance, with glowing reviews like, "This was one of the best pasta making experiences I’ve had. & the food .. omg delicious" and "Anthony was amazing! Overall, we had such a great experience." Whether it's a fun date night, a family gathering, or a solo culinary escapade, Aunt Jake’s provides an exceptional blend of education, entertainment, and gastronomic delight, making every visit memorable.
A photo of Cecconi's at The Ned NoMad restaurant
5. Cecconi's at The Ned NoMad
4.4
Awesome(373)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • NoMad
Booked 37 times today
Cecconi's at The Ned NoMad in the vibrant NoMad neighborhood of New York offers an exquisite taste of Mediterranean cuisine with an Italian flair. Patrons rave about the "delicious Italian plates," highlighting the "finest quality" ingredients and "impeccable service." The restaurant's ambiance, featuring hand-chipped mosaic floors and plush seating, perfectly complements its sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise dishes like the "best fusilli pomodoro I have ever had" and the "fresh, locally caught fish," underscoring Cecconi's commitment to quality and authenticity. With its elegant setting and renowned Mediterranean offerings, Cecconi's remains a top choice for a memorable dining experience in Manhattan.
A photo of Sauce restaurant
6. Sauce
4.5
Awesome(1081)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Lower East Side
Nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side of New York, **Sauce** offers an authentic slice of Italy with dishes that resonate deeply with Italian tradition. Known for its heritage chicken parm and homemade pasta, Sauce truly stands out for its meticulously crafted sauce, a recipe perfected by Italian expert chef consultant Maura Ardu. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one declaring, “the sauce in every item is beautifully seasoned and tastes amazing.” The cozy ambiance paired with a lively vibe, where hip hop meets classic Italian décor, makes every dining experience memorable. Whether it’s the grass-fed beef meatballs or the extra thin crust pizza, Sauce delivers consistent, classic Italian flavors that keep locals and visitors coming back for more. Cheers to an unforgettable meal at Sauce, where every dish tells a story of culinary passion and heritage.
A photo of Fiat Cafe restaurant
7. Fiat Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(266)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • NoLita
Booked 12 times today
Fiat Cafe in NoLita, New York, is a delightful haven for American cuisine enthusiasts. This cozy cafe, celebrated for its authenticity and quality, serves a spectrum of American classics that have patrons raving about their culinary experiences. Diners especially adore their fluffy pancakes, French toast, and the spinach and goat cheese omelet, describing them as "to die for." The atmosphere is praised for being "cozy and welcoming," making it a perfect spot for both quick bites and leisurely meals. With glowing reviews, such as "the best BLT sandwich I’ve ever had" and "phenomenal service," Fiat Cafe stands out as a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of American comfort food in a charming neighborhood setting.
A photo of Sogno Toscano restaurant
8. Sogno Toscano
4.8
Exceptional(111)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • West Village
Booked 8 times today
Sogno Toscano in West Village, New York, offers a truly authentic Italian Wine Bar experience that transports you straight to Tuscany. Diners rave about the "immaculate food, wine, vibes, and service," with a special mention for the "Lambrusco and charcuterie board that make you think you’re in Italy." This gem is known for its extensive selection of imported wines that perfectly complement their gourmet offerings. As one happy guest put it, "the wine is top notch," underscoring the quality that Sogno Toscano prides itself on. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Sogno Toscano provides a perfect slice of Italy with its exceptional wine and food pairings, making every visit a memorable one.
A photo of Osteria Barocca restaurant
9. Osteria Barocca
4.2
Awesome(126)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 22 times today
Step into Osteria Barocca in the heart of Little Italy, New York, and experience the epitome of Mediterranean cuisine. This Italian fine dining establishment blends classic and modern styles to create dishes that are both authentic and innovative. Guests rave about the "exceptional spicy rigatoni" and "delightful fried calamari," noting that each dish bursts with freshness and flavor. The atmosphere is described as "elegant and cozy," perfect for any memorable dining occasion. Reviewers consistently highlight the "impeccable service," with staff like Barisa and Iman going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Osteria Barocca promises an unforgettable Mediterranean feast in an inviting setting.
A photo of Il Mulino Prime - SoHo restaurant
10. Il Mulino Prime - SoHo
4.5
Awesome(717)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • SoHo
Booked 16 times today
Il Mulino Prime, nestled in the vibrant SoHo neighborhood of New York, epitomizes exceptional Steakhouse cuisine with a touch of Italian flair. Renowned for its "perfect steak" and ambience that's "sophisticated by night," Il Mulino Prime offers a culinary experience that is both authentic and memorable. Guests rave about the "unforgettable" porterhouse steak and the "amazing" New York strip, highlighting the quality and preparation that make each visit spectacular. With praise like "the food was aaammaazing" and descriptions of experiences that are "truly worth every penny," it's clear this steakhouse stands out in the bustling NYC culinary scene. Enthusiasts of fine dining and high-quality steaks will find Il Mulino Prime a must-visit destination.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Katy
    Brighton •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We each had a meal from the specials menu and it was by far the best food we have had in New York. The food was incredible!
    More info
    Osteria BaroccaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.2
  • Joey
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Loved it. It’s just cash only and thankfully we had cash.
    More info
    Fiat CafePrice: Moderate• Italian• NoLita
    •
    4.8
  • TaraVIP
    New York City •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 21, 2024
    Exceptional service, food and atmosphere. The corner window seat was perfect. 💖
    More info
    Il Mulino Prime - SoHoPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• SoHo
    •
    4.5
  • Isabel
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 10, 2024
    The food was fantastic, the restaurant was warm (we sat near the door but you couldn’t feel it), and the staff was lovely! 10/10 can’t wait to go back.
    More info
    Sogno ToscanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• West Village
    •
    4.8
  • Tania
    New York City •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 24, 2024
    This restaurant delivers an extraordinary dining experience, with food that is truly exceptional. The highlight of the meal was the polenta, a dish crafted to absolute perfection. Served tableside, the presentation added an elegant and personal touch that elevated the entire experience. The texture was creamy, the flavor rich and perfectly balanced, making it a standout among an already impressive menu. The service matched the quality of the food, with attentive and knowledgeable staff watched very closed by the excepcional manager Austin, enhancing the overall ambiance. From start to finish, the attention to detail and passion for culinary excellence were evident. Highly recommend this spot for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience—don’t miss the polenta!
    More info
    SaucePrice: Moderate• Italian• Lower East Side
    •
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Lower East Side

Explore the vibrant world of contemporary Italian cuisine in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City. This neighborhood, known for its dynamic dining scene, is a treasure trove of culinary innovation, blending traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Each restaurant in the area offers a unique interpretation of Italian dishes, crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a creative flair that distinguishes them in the bustling city. From artisanal homemade pastas to expertly seasoned meats, the menus are designed to cater to both traditional palates and adventurous foodies alike. The ambiance of these establishments ranges from intimate and cozy to sleek and modern, each providing an exceptional dining experience that emphasizes comfort and style. As a hub of culinary excellence, the Lower East Side invites locals and tourists to explore its array of contemporary Italian eateries, ensuring a memorable meal with every visit. Whether you're seeking a casual dinner or a sophisticated evening out, this locale promises satisfaction with every bite.

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