10 Best Italian Restaurants In New York - Mashed

"Italian immigrants flooded New York City in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing with them the recipes of their homeland. Eventually, the food evolved into a new-world version - Italian American cuisine that became a pillar of the city's dining."

"Everything from the seemingly simple focaccia appetizer to the signature agnolotti pasta is done impeccably (and consistently across multiple visits, even years apart). The menu standouts at this eatery are, unsurprisingly, the homemade pastas. The mafaldini has distinctive rippled edges (almost like a lasagna noodle) and is topped with Parmigiano and pink peppercorns, served perfectly al dente with just the right amount of bite."

"Coveted reservations at this restaurant are still difficult to come by, even a decade later, mainly because of the food."

Italian immigrants arriving in New York City during the late 19th and early 20th centuries introduced their homeland recipes, which evolved into Italian American cuisine that became foundational to the city's food culture. Today, Italian restaurants remain prevalent throughout New York, though quality varies significantly. Lilia, opened by Chef Missy Robbins in Williamsburg, Brooklyn in 2016, exemplifies excellence in contemporary Italian dining. The restaurant is renowned for impeccable execution of both simple dishes like focaccia and complex homemade pastas. Signature dishes include mafaldini with distinctive rippled edges, spaghetti with pine nuts and lemon, and fettuccine with lamb sausage. Reservations remain highly sought after due to consistent quality and culinary prestige.

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