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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Upper East Side

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63 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience restaurant
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 Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC restaurant
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 Il Fiorista restaurant
4.5
Awesome(260)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • NoMad
Booked 25 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 Piccola Cucina Uptown restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2152)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side
Booked 98 times today
Piccola Cucina Uptown, nestled in the vibrant Upper East Side of New York, offers a delightful escape to the heart of Sicily with its authentic cuisine. As praised by diners, it's a place where "the food was amazing" and where traditional Sicilian dishes like "pasta alla bottarga" and "branzino cooked in bread" shine. Chef Philip Guardione brings Sicilian flavors to life with creativity and flair, ensuring each dish is a testament to Sicilian culinary traditions. The atmosphere is consistently lauded as "cozy" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Whether it's the "homemade pistachio gelato" or the "freshly cooked lasagna," every bite at Piccola Cucina Uptown transports diners straight to Sicily, making it a must-visit for authentic Sicilian cuisine in New York City.
A photo of Carmine's - 91st Street - NYC restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(8520)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Upper West Side
Booked 157 times today
Carmine's on 91st Street in NYC’s Upper West Side is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, where every meal is a festive celebration akin to an Italian American wedding feast. Known for its generous family-style servings, Carmine's delights diners with meticulously crafted Southern Italian dishes. As one diner raves, "The food never disappoints. It's always a great experience." From the succulent Chicken Parmesan to the divine pasta with sauce, every dish is a testament to authentic Italian flavors, prepared with a contemporary twist. The ambiance is lively and welcoming, perfect for large groups or a family dinner, making every visit to Carmine's a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Cecconi's at The Ned NoMad restaurant
4.4
Awesome(373)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • NoMad
Booked 36 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 Ninos 46 restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1188)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Midtown West
Booked 28 times today
Nino's 46, nestled in the heart of Midtown West, New York, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine, lovingly crafted by a family-owned establishment. Patrons rave about the "delicious wood-fired brick oven pizza" and "handcrafted pasta" that transport diners straight to Italy with every bite. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with one guest exclaiming, "Amazing food! We got the linguine clams and truffle pizza and both were delicious." Nino's 46 also caters wonderfully to special dietary needs, offering an array of gluten-free options that do not compromise on taste or authenticity. Whether you're coming in for a "glass of wine, a cocktail or an espresso," or to indulge in "homemade desserts," Nino's 46 promises a delightful dining experience that keeps guests returning. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian flavors in a cozy, inviting ambiance.
A photo of Cafe Ginori at Bergdorf Goodman restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(37)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Rockefeller Center
Booked 20 times today
Tucked away in the legendary New York store Bergdorf Goodman, Café Ginori is a bold, elegant, and innovative culinary venture that reimagines the art of the table. Step inside the iconic world of Ginori 1735 and enjoy Italian-inspired fare, afternoon tea, or refreshing cocktails and savory bites for the time-honored Italian tradition of Aperitivo. As the menu shifts throughout the day, so does the colorful table setting, complimenting and accentuating the enchanting dining experience.
A photo of 83 1/2 restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1125)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side
Booked 13 times today
Located in the heart of the Upper East Side, 83 1/2 stands as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, crafted with a genuine love for food by Chef Vincenzo Mangiafridda. Celebrating Sicilian roots, the restaurant offers a menu filled with silky pastas, inventive antipasti, and sumptuous entrees, each dish telling a story of tradition and modern flair. Patrons rave about the "fresh pasta" and claim it's the "best Italian around the neighborhood." With its cozy ambiance, 83 1/2 is described as a "neighborhood gem," perfect for both family dinners and intimate gatherings. The exceptional service complements the exquisite food, making every visit memorable.
A photo of Il Postino restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1077)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Midtown East
Booked 5 times today
Il Postino, nestled in the heart of Midtown East, New York, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, where authenticity and culinary artistry meet. Owners Luigi Russo and Piero Trotta have crafted a dining experience that's both genuine and innovative, earning accolades such as "always the best NYC has to offer for Italian." The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere is matched by its menu, which features standout dishes like spinach ravioli in truffle sauce and a seafood risotto that left one diner "beyond satisfied." Guests rave about the exceptional service and the intimate, welcoming ambience, making Il Postino a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Italian dining in Manhattan. Whether it's the meticulously prepared osso bucco or the homemade cannoli, every dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AmberVIP
    New York City •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    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!
    More info
    Aunt Jake's Pasta ExperiencePrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Upper East Side
    4.9
  • LisaVIP
    New York City •30 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    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.
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    Carmine's - 44th Street - NYCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Theater District
    4.6
  • Dana
    Dallas - Fort Worth •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    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.
    More info
    Carmine's - 91st Street - NYCPrice: Expensive• Italian• Upper West Side
    4.6
  • Alena
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    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.
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    Ninos 46Price: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Midtown West
    4.4
  • aliceVIP
    New York City •121 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    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.
    More info
    Piccola Cucina UptownPrice: Moderate• Italian• Upper East Side
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Upper East Side

Discover the charm of contemporary Italian cuisine in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where a collection of restaurants offers an exquisite blend of modern flavors and traditional Italian culinary arts. Each venue in this vibrant neighborhood showcases a dedication to quality ingredients, inventive recipes, and exceptional service, creating a dining experience that is both unique and memorable. From expertly crafted pastas to innovative Italian entrees, these establishments cater to a diverse palate, ensuring every dish is a testament to authentic Italian craftsmanship. The dining scene in the Upper East Side is renowned for its elegant ambiance and culinary sophistication, making it a prime destination for those seeking a refined gastronomic adventure. Whether you're a local foodie or a visiting epicurean, the array of contemporary Italian restaurants here promises an unforgettable culinary journey that blends the rich traditions of Italy with the dynamic flair of New York City. Indulge in a culinary landscape where each meal is served with a side of warm hospitality and a dash of New York charm. From casual chic eateries to upscale dining venues, the Upper East Side offers a diverse range of settings to enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine at its finest. Experience the joy of dining where every restaurant strives not only to meet but exceed expectations with dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Join us in the Upper East Side and taste the passion and creativity that define contemporary Italian dining in Manhattan.

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