Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Astoria

I purchased the pasta making experience as part of my fiancé’s Christmas present. He loves good fresh Italian food and Aunt Jake’s did not disappoint. The food was amazing the class was very explanatory and easy to follow. This is an exceptional value. I will say the only down side is that the space to work and learn is a little tight but hey most places in NYC are. If you are looking for delicious pasta and an amazing experience Aunt Jake’s is for you!

We were so pleased with our first visit to Carmine's. My husband and I usually travel to NYC alone, and have never gone before because we heard how large the portions are - and they are NOT kidding. There were 7 of us for dinner, and we shared a Caesar Salad, Cheesy Garlic Bread, Rigatoni Bolognese, Eggplant Parm, Veal Scallopini, and Tiramisu and it was perfect portions. Only thing we took home was the Garlic Bread (which the 19-year-old scarfed down likely before it made it to the hotel fridge.) Paul our server was fantastic - happy to see our family reunion the day after Christmas with family from Myrtle Beach. The restaurant is crowded and loud, so expect that - but it's a fun environment and you can tell it's mostly families just having a great time. This dinner capped off a perfect day celebrating the 19-year-old's first Broadway Show.

We plan our trip to NYC around eating at Carmine’s. This time we ate at the upper West Side location. We usually eat at the Times Square location. But this year it was booked solid for Christmas a month in advance. We were wowed again with an awesome meal at Carmines at 91st Street. We had the garlic bread with cheese. We always ask to add the cheese. So wonderful. We also split the lasagna. It is the best we have ever tasted. We brought over half of it home. I would recommend either Carmine’s to anyone wanting authentic Italian food at its best.

Small restaurant. We came half hour early, it was still full, people waiting. But they tried very hard to accommodate us and they did. They were very nice. The food was very very good, the veal was fantastic. The ice cream on a brownie? It was some dried up cake, nor a brownie. But everything else , served for 6 people , was excellent.

Food and ambiance were very good-we loved the crudo, and grilled calamari,enjoyed the pasta and desert.Service was timely and helpful.the experience was very nice and we will return.