13 best Carbonara in New York City
In the vibrant food scene of New York City, Carbonara is a beloved pasta dish that has won the hearts of many. With its rich and creamy sauce, combined with salty pancetta or guanciale and a hint of pepper, Carbonara in NYC is a must-try for any pasta lover. From traditional Italian trattorias to modern fusion restaurants, you can find delicious Carbonara dishes that will leave you craving for more.
1. Carmine's
Family-style Italian dining in the heart of Times Square

Carmine's Carbonara is a standout dish, with its perfectly cooked pasta and well-balanced sauce. The dish offers a delightful dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The portion size of Carmine's Carbonara is generous, making it an excellent choice for sharing with others. Overall, the dish is highly recommended for those seeking a delicious Carbonara option.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
2. Carbone New York
A stylish ode to mid-century Italian-American dining

Carbone's Carbonara is a truly delightful dish. The creamy sauce, enriched with cheese and eggs, provides a velvety texture that coats each strand of pasta beautifully. The dish is generously seasoned, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying. This is a must-try dish for any pasta lover.
At Carbone, the Carbonara stands out with its impeccable balance of flavors and satisfying portion size. From the first bite, you can taste the high-quality ingredients and the care taken in creating this dish. The pasta is cooked al dente, and the creamy sauce clings to each strand without becoming overwhelming. Overall, Carbone's Carbonara is a standout dish that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
3. Lupa
Experience Roman trattoria fare in the heart of NYC

The Italian restaurant offers an upscale dining experience, with a menu that showcases classic dishes with a contemporary flair. Among the many outstanding options, the spaghetti carbonara particularly stands out. This is not your typical carbonara - the sauce is incredibly creamy, and the pancetta is cooked to perfection, adding a depth of flavor that is unmatched.
Unfortunately, the dish we received was not served hot, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, the presentation of the meal lacked attention to detail. For a restaurant at this price point, these missteps are surprising and disappointing. Despite these issues, the quality of the carbonara itself cannot be denied - it truly is some of the best that we have ever had. However, in order to create a truly unforgettable dining experience, the restaurant needs to focus on improving the consistency of their service and presentation.
4. Trattoria Trecolori
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of the Theatre District.

The restaurant in question had initially caught the diner's attention due to the promising presence of Spaghetti Carbonara on the menu. However, upon tasting the dish, it became evident that the expectations were not met. Instead of the traditional and much loved egg-based sauce, the spaghetti was drowned in a cheese sauce that paled in comparison. It was a disappointing twist, as integrating eggs into a carbonara sauce is not only authentic but also cost-effective.
It is worth noting that a classic carbonara dish is simple to make, and incorporating eggs into the sauce is not only an essential element of the recipe but also contributes to the depth of flavor. The decision to substitute the eggs with cheese sauce implied a lack of regard for the time-honored recipe or a discouraging lack of knowledge about the history and preparation of the dish. As a result, the diner left feeling disappointed and questioning the restaurant's culinary credentials.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
5. Spaghetti Incident
Rock 'n' roll spirit meets Italian culinary excellence

The carbonara served in this establishment is truly a delight. It stands out for its rich and creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and generously scattered pancetta. The dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.
In addition to their delicious food, the wine selection at this establishment is commendable. With a range of options available, diners can find a bottle that suits their taste and budget. One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant only accepts cash payments, so be sure to come prepared. Overall, this establishment is a great spot for those seeking delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. Monte's Trattoria
A century-old tradition of Italian hospitality and flavors

The Spaghetti Carbonara served at this establishment is truly a standout dish. The sauce is rich and full of flavor, with a creamy consistency that coats every strand of pasta. Each bite is a delight, as the pasta is always fresh and perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of bite to it.
In terms of flavor, the Carbonara is expertly balanced, with a mix of savory and umami notes that leave you craving more. The pasta is cooked to perfection, with a texture that is both tender and firm. Overall, this is a must-try dish for any pasta lover, and a great example of how simple, traditional ingredients can be elevated to create something truly special.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
7. Via Della Pace
Authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of NYC

The Carbonara pasta served at this establishment is a standout dish, earning a well-deserved reputation for its creamy consistency and expert seasoning. This exquisite Carbonara ranks among the finest samples of this classic Italian dish available in New York City, making it an essential addition to any pasta lover's itinerary.
Visitors will not be disappointed by the establishment's offerings, ranging from the delightful pasta carbonara to the sublime tuna course. Additionally, the freshness and careful preparation of the special asparagus along with the meticulously made broccoli side dish further elevate the dining experience, solidifying the venue's reputation for outstanding food quality.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
8. San Carlo Osteria Piemonte
Experience the true flavors of Piedmont in the heart of NYC

The Carbonara served in this establishment is a culinary delight that should not be missed. The dish boasts rich, authentic flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Italy. Every bite is a symphony of taste, with the pasta cooked to al dente perfection and the creamy sauce made from the highest quality eggs and cheese.
The Spaghetti alla Carbonara is a true gastronomic experience. This classic Italian dish features perfectly cooked spaghetti, cured pork cheek, and shavings of Pecorino Romano cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. The cured pork cheek is tender and flavorful, adding a depth of taste that elevates the dish to new heights. This is a must-try for any pasta lover.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
9. Trattoria Dell'Arte
Largest antipasto bar in New York with Tuscan-inspired decor.

The service at this establishment is commendable, with staff demonstrating both friendliness and competence. The vegetable antipasto is a must-try, featuring standout dishes such as breaded friend cauliflower and eggplant. Following this, patrons can enjoy a serving of pasta, with options including spaghetti carbonara with lobster and tordelli with beef ragout. To finish, an enormous tartufo is highly recommended for dessert.
The lobster carbonara and chicken parm are both exceptional choices for those looking to sample the menu's standout dishes. The lobster carbonara is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the chef's skill and attention to detail. Meanwhile, the chicken parm is a classic dish executed to perfection. Overall, the quality of the food and service makes this a restaurant worth returning to.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Mid-Range
10. Pepe Rosso
Authentic Italian flavors in the heart of SoHo

One diner's experience at this Italian restaurant was unfortunately not positive, as their rigatoni carbonara special was both undercooked and lacking in flavor. However, their dining companions had a more favorable experience, enjoying their meals and praising the flavor and texture of the pasta.
Overall, this restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine at affordable prices, with a convenient location and a menu full of options. The pasta in particular received high praise for its pleasant texture and taste. The variety of pasta dishes available allowed for a sampling of different flavors, all of which were enjoyed.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
11. Cacio e Pepe
Pasta theatrically tossed in a Pecorino cheese wheel.

The Carbonara served at this establishment is truly exceptional. The rich, creamy sauce and al dente pasta deliver a delightful burst of flavors with every bite. It is evident that great care has been taken in the preparation of this dish, resulting in a memorable dining experience.
Whether you're a pasta aficionado or simply a food lover, this Carbonara is sure to impress. The harmonious combination of seasonings and ingredients creates a phenomenal taste that lingers on the palate long after the meal. The portion size is satisfying, neither too little nor too much, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a fulfilling yet not overly heavy dish.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
12. Gnocco
Experience true Northern Italian flavors in the heart of East Village

The Carbonara dish offered is a must-try for any pasta lover. It boasts a generous portion, making it a satisfying choice for those with a hearty appetite. The dish excels in its flavor profile, with each component coming together in a harmonious blend of tastes.
Indeed, the pasta in the Carbonara is cooked to perfection, providing a delightful texture. The sauce is creamy and rich, elevating the dish with its intense flavors. The dish is a testament to the restaurant's ability to create a truly memorable Carbonara experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
13. Cacio E Vino
Authentic Sicilian flavors in the heart of New York.

The Carbonara dish at Cacio E Vino is a standout option that should not be missed. It features a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to satisfy. Moreover, the portion size is generous, providing a substantial and satisfying meal.
The pasta is cooked to perfection, with a good bite to it, while the sauce is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The use of high-quality ingredients is evident in each bite. It is clear that much thought and care has been put into crafting this Carbonara, making it one of the best in NYC.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options