Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in East Elmhurst

64 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience restaurant

1. Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience

4.9

Exceptional(756)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Booked 37 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 Piccola Cucina Uptown restaurant

2. Piccola Cucina Uptown

4.8

Exceptional(2097)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Booked 97 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.

3. VIA VAI - Astoria

4.8

Exceptional(273)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Astoria

Booked 6 times today

VIA VAI in Astoria is a gem for wine lovers, offering a meticulously curated selection of Italian wines that perfectly complement their authentic Italian cuisine. This rustic and cozy wine bar features a beautiful slate and marble top bar, providing an intimate setting that enhances the sipping experience. Praised for its authenticity and quality, the wines are carefully chosen to pair with Chef Antonio Morichini's artisanal dishes, created from ingredients imported directly from Italy. As noted in glowing reviews, "Every single item on the menu has a unique authentic flavor," making VIA VAI a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Wine Bar experience in Queens.

4. Il Postino

4.9

Exceptional(1066)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Midtown East

Booked 8 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.

5. Siena Cafe

4.4

Awesome(588)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Booked 9 times today

Siena Cafe on Upper East Side, New York, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an exceptional experience that stands out in the bustling NYC dining scene. Known for its fresh, in-house made pasta and a variety of fresh fish, steaks, and chops, Siena Cafe captures the essence of modern Italian cooking with a creative twist. Diners rave about the "absolutely outstanding establishment" and the "amazing food served by a wonderful group of wait staff in a great environment." The speak-easy style setting and cozy outdoor patio only enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Italian dishes. With glowing reviews like "You cannot get a better meal anywhere in NYC," it's clear Siena Cafe is a top destination for both locals and visitors alike.

6. 83 1/2

4.7

Exceptional(1117)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Booked 5 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 Cacio e Pepe Uptown restaurant

7. Cacio e Pepe Uptown

4.7

Exceptional(480)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Booked 12 times today

Cacio e Pepe Uptown on the Upper East Side offers a transcendent slice of Contemporary European cuisine with its hearty embrace of authentic Italian dishes. Renowned for its unique take on the classic Cacio e Pepe, prepared tableside in a wheel of cheese, this restaurant has captured the hearts of diners and critics alike. One reviewer exclaimed, "The food was outstanding in presentation, taste, and quality. Exceptional food with a very reasonable price." The creativity of Chef Salvatore Corea shines through in every meticulously crafted dish, offering a menu that blends traditional flavors with modern twists. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as inviting and perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a special celebration. With glowing testimonials about both the food and the service, Cacio e Pepe Uptown is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exemplary Contemporary European dining experience in New York City.

8. Terrone

4.6

Exceptional(26)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Long Island City

Booked 8 times today

At Terrone in Long Island City, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine comes alive with every dish served. Known for its "real Napoletana" pizzas and an array of modern Italian dishes, Terrone emphasizes freshness and authenticity, using "the highest quality" ingredients. Diners rave about the "perfect Neapolitan pies" and the "exquisite selection of Italian wines," making it a culinary gem in NYC. The atmosphere is described as "intimate and cozy," perfect for both family dining and romantic evenings. With glowing recommendations like "the best Pizza Napoletana" and a welcoming staff that makes you feel like you're "transported to Italy," Terrone promises not just a meal but an exquisite Italian experience right on the waterfront of Queens.

9. Amata

4.8

Exceptional(946)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Midtown East

Booked 4 times today

Nestled in the heart of Midtown East, Manhattan, Amata delights patrons with its exquisite Modern Tuscan cuisine, blending traditional Italian elements with innovative culinary techniques. Praised for its "reliably good food and ambiance," Amata offers a menu that highlights seasonal specials and artisanal pastas, making every dish a testament to high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Guests rave about the "delicious food, great service, and beautiful atmosphere," frequently noting the "superb food" like the celebrated veal Bociaola and the perfectly prepared branzino. Whether it's for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Amata consistently provides a memorable dining experience, making it a beloved gem in NYC's vibrant culinary scene.

A photo of Serafina Vino e Cucina 84th Street restaurant

10. Serafina Vino e Cucina 84th Street

4.5

Awesome(58)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Upper East Side

Serafina Vino e Cucina on 84th Street in the Upper East Side masterfully blends contemporary Italian cuisine with an inviting atmosphere, making it a standout in New York City. Celebrated for its creative twist on homestyle Italian fare, Serafina delivers dishes that are "simply divine, each dish outshining the last" as per enthusiastic diners. The restaurant is particularly noted for its "excellent food" from thin, crispy pizzas to perfectly cooked pasta, all served by a "very attentive" staff that makes everyone "feel at home." Adding to its charm is the ambiance which complements the delectable menu, making every meal a memorable experience. Whether it's the all-beef meatballs or the neatly plated salmon, Serafina ensures a top-notch dining experience that keeps its clientele, including celebrities, coming back for more.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

T
Timothyvip
San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Erika is one of the best hosts in NYC. You are welcomed from the moment you arrive at the front door. Food is great. Staff cares a great deal about service and presentation. You are in a happy environment having a delicious meal served by people who are very professional. Highly recommend.
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Piccola Cucina UptownPrice: Moderate• Italian• Upper East Side
•
4.8
H
Halynnvip
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Always delicious food! The chicken bolognese was the best dish on the table. The pasta making experience was a lot of fun. I took some out of town guests. I would definitely do it again!
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Aunt Jake's Pasta ExperiencePrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Upper East Side
•
4.9
M
Michele
New York City •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Had the rigatoni bolognese and it was so delicious. My friend also. Loves their meals. Waiter very attentive and friendly. Love the elegant comfortable atmosphere. Had the mango margaritas-excellent. Would definitely return here and recommend highly .
More info
Siena CafePrice: Moderate• Italian• Upper East Side
•
4.4
C
Crisvip
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
This is my second time going to 83 1/2. Great food and great service. Intimate surroundings, just a lovely experience. I will be making it my local favorite.
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83 1/2Price: Moderate• Italian• Upper East Side
•
4.7
M
Michaelvip
New York City •20 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
This is what fine dining is supposed to be. The attention to detail and the level of service created a wonderful atmosphere for dinner. The menu offers a wide variety of choices which makes for tough decisions and our apps and entrees did not disappoint. The deep wine list is well thought out and the Brunello we selected was outstanding. A quick check in by the chef was a good touch followed by an enjoyable desert along with cappuccinos to finish the night. After dinner, we discussed what we would have the next time we visit Il Postino. I can't wait!
More info
Il PostinoPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Midtown East
•
4.9

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East Elmhurst

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in East Elmhurst

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64 restaurants available nearby

1. Aunt Jake's Pasta Experience

2. Piccola Cucina Uptown

3. VIA VAI - Astoria

4. Il Postino

5. Siena Cafe

6. 83 1/2

7. Cacio e Pepe Uptown

8. Terrone

9. Amata

10. Serafina Vino e Cucina 84th Street

See what locals rave about

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