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When the Italian immigrants began moving into the area in the 1840s, they had no idea what a big impact they and their descendants would have on their new home. At the time, the neighborhood was poor and neglected, but it was a haven for people escaping from hardship back home. Like many immigrants, the Italians turned to food to make a living and express their culture.
This intertwining of food and life lives on in Little Italy’s restaurants. NYC is known for being a food lover’s paradise, and there’s practically a pizza shop on every corner, but none have the same heart, history, and heavenly flavors as those in our neighborhood.
If you’re looking for truly authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than your favorite Little Italy restaurant. When you visit, certain iconic dishes shouldn’t be missed. Not only do these dishes show a little of the diversity of Italian cuisine, but their quality is a good indicator that they’re one of the best restaurants in Little Italy, NYC.
First up is, of course, pizza. Forget all the derivative forms and come straight to the source for the best pizza you’ll ever eat. One easy way to determine the quality of a pizza is by checking whether it’s made in a real traditional wood-fired oven. The smoke from the burning wood adds a depth of flavor that can’t be faked, and the high heat ensures a quick, even bake, a golden crust, and perfectly melted cheese.
From the light, crispy base, preferably made with 00 (“doppio zero”) flour, to the top-quality mozzarella cheese, an Italian pizza’s beauty lies in its simplicity. When you use fresh and high-quality ingredients, they don’t need to be covered up. They become the main event.
Next on the list is pasta, preferably served coated in a delicious sauce. There’s absolutely no excuse for over- or undercooking your pasta. It should be al dente, which literally means “to the tooth” and refers to pasta that is fully cooked but still firm when bitten. Then comes the sauce, whether it’s a classic like Pomodoro or something a little more unexpected, like the sauce on our Truffle Pacchieri, which combines truffle cream, burrata, sausage, and Parmigiano (parmesan cheese). If you want to lean into the classic image of Italian food in the most delicious way possible, make sure you add some meatballs to your Spaghetti Pomodoro.
Italian food in America is a fusion by nature, taking its inspiration from different regional traditions across Italy. That makes it easy for Italian chefs to learn and borrow from other cuisines, too. This is reflected in how many restaurants in Little Italy use unusual ingredients to give their diners something entirely new.
This culinary openness has inspired us to create a menu that adds a twist of flavor to just about every dish. Treat your taste buds to our take on the Quattro Formaggio pizza with mission fig, Aleppo pepper, and honey. You’ve never had a Caeser salad like ours – the Spicy Kale Caeser adds a bite with serrano peppers and pickled red onions, balanced by some Parmigiano and the freshness of mint. Take a look at our menu for even more unexpected flavor combinations you’ve got to try.
The restaurants in Little Italy, NYC, offer a wealth of wonderful date-night options. After all, there’s something inherently romantic about Italian food. The neighborhood is warm and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the evening. It’s the perfect combination for date nights, whether you’re just starting to get to know each other or have been married for years.
Neighborhood restaurants offer a more personal kind of charm than big chains. Apart from being quieter, so you can really talk, they’re also more likely to go out of their way to help you make your night extra special – that personal touch is everything.
When visiting a Little Italy restaurant, picking the right time will help you make the most of your meal. Most restaurants are open fairly late, so you can be flexible about when you eat. It’s usually a good idea to make a reservation regardless to ensure you’ll be seated at the time that suits you.
Taking a break from your busy day to indulge in some delicious Italian food is never a bad idea. Lunch at Gelso & Grand is a popular option – meet the family for a Sunday lunch, or come midweek for a quieter experience.
Pop us a message to make a reservation. We’ll see you soon!
Sunday – Thursday : 11am – 11pm
Friday – Saturday : 11am – 12am
