14 Best Italian restaurants in Utica New York
Italian restaurants in Utica NY offer a tantalizing taste of Italy in the heart of New York state. With a variety of options, these establishments provide a range of authentic Italian dishes, from hand-tossed pizzas to creamy pastas and delightful desserts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Italian restaurants in Utica NY provide an unforgettable dining experience.
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- 1. Ventura's
- 2. Bella Regina
- 3. Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse
- 4. Ambasador Restaurant
- 5. Trattoria Calabria
- 6. Nostro Restobar and Lounge
- 7. Ancora!
- 8. Joey's @307 Restaurant
- 9. Milano Restaurant
- 10. Franco's Pizza & Italian Deli
- 11. Pizzeria Italia
- 12. O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria
- 13. Rosario's Pizzeria East Utica
- 14. Chesterfield's Tavolo
1. Ventura's
A taste of Italy in the heart of Utica since 1943
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Ventura's is an Italian restaurant that provides a peaceful and refined dining experience. Its menu boasts authentic dishes, with the shrimp scampi being a particularly popular choice, in addition to pasta options suitable for vegetarians. The staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to accommodate, making it an excellent option for special events or an evening out.
The service at Ventura's has been highly commended by patrons for its attentiveness, efficiency, speed, and friendly demeanor, with many describing it as exceptional and excellent. The atmosphere of the restaurant has been likened to a 1950s dinner club and is often described as old school NY Italian, quaint, charming, and family-friendly.
Ventura's is an Italian restaurant that provides a peaceful and refined dining experience. Its menu boasts authentic dishes, with the shrimp scampi being a particularly popular choice, in addition to pasta options suitable for vegetarians. The staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to accommodate, making it an excellent option for special events or an evening out.
The service at Ventura's has been highly commended by patrons for its attentiveness, efficiency, speed, and friendly demeanor, with many describing it as exceptional and excellent. The atmosphere of the restaurant has been likened to a 1950s dinner club and is often described as old school NY Italian, quaint, charming, and family-friendly.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
2. Bella Regina
Experience authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Utica
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Bella Regina's is a standout restaurant in Utica, known for its exquisite dishes such as chicken riggies, greens, and tomato pie. The upscale ambiance and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 per person, but the extraordinary food and service make it well worth the expense.
Utica boasts several family-owned Italian restaurants, and Bella Regina's is certainly one of the best. With a buzzing atmosphere, freshly prepared dishes, and attentive staff, the restaurant provides a top-notch dining experience. The knowledgeable staff is happy to answer any questions about the menu and ensure that each guest has an enjoyable meal.
Bella Regina's is a standout restaurant in Utica, known for its exquisite dishes such as chicken riggies, greens, and tomato pie. The upscale ambiance and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. The cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 per person, but the extraordinary food and service make it well worth the expense.
Utica boasts several family-owned Italian restaurants, and Bella Regina's is certainly one of the best. With a buzzing atmosphere, freshly prepared dishes, and attentive staff, the restaurant provides a top-notch dining experience. The knowledgeable staff is happy to answer any questions about the menu and ensure that each guest has an enjoyable meal.
3. Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse
Fusion of casual steakhouse and fine Italian dining
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The Delmonico steak served at Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse is of high quality, but could benefit from more seasoning to truly enhance its flavor. Alongside the steak, the sliced steak, meatballs, and pasta, and chicken francese were also ordered, providing a well-rounded meal for the table.
For those looking for a true culinary challenge, Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse offers Utica diners the chance to tackle a massive 24-ounce certified Angus Delmonico steak. Additionally, the 16-ounce center cut New York sirloin is a substantial and satisfying choice for those with slightly smaller appetites. The steakhouse provides a range of meal options that cater to different taste preferences and hunger levels.
The Delmonico steak served at Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse is of high quality, but could benefit from more seasoning to truly enhance its flavor. Alongside the steak, the sliced steak, meatballs, and pasta, and chicken francese were also ordered, providing a well-rounded meal for the table.
For those looking for a true culinary challenge, Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse offers Utica diners the chance to tackle a massive 24-ounce certified Angus Delmonico steak. Additionally, the 16-ounce center cut New York sirloin is a substantial and satisfying choice for those with slightly smaller appetites. The steakhouse provides a range of meal options that cater to different taste preferences and hunger levels.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Suburban
4. Ambasador Restaurant
Elegant dining with a touch of romance.
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A delightful dining experience was had on a Wednesday evening at this restaurant, where the service was exceptional and the staff warm and welcoming. The food was a highlight, with generous portions and excellent seasoning that resulted in truly delicious dishes. The Ambassador Chicken and Riggies special were particularly satisfying and received high praise.
This establishment offers a varied menu, with an impressive selection that caters to a range of tastes. Among the standout dishes was the Escargot, which was described as the best tasted yet. With such excellent service, food, and menu selection, a return visit is highly anticipated.
A delightful dining experience was had on a Wednesday evening at this restaurant, where the service was exceptional and the staff warm and welcoming. The food was a highlight, with generous portions and excellent seasoning that resulted in truly delicious dishes. The Ambassador Chicken and Riggies special were particularly satisfying and received high praise.
This establishment offers a varied menu, with an impressive selection that caters to a range of tastes. Among the standout dishes was the Escargot, which was described as the best tasted yet. With such excellent service, food, and menu selection, a return visit is highly anticipated.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
5. Trattoria Calabria
Experience authentic Italian dining with a personal touch
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Trattoria Calabria provides a remarkable dining experience for its patrons. The establishment's eight-course meal consists of a diverse array of Italian dishes, such as bean soup, bruschetta, antipasto salad, mussels in garlic wine sauce, and eggplant parmesan. Guests can enjoy warm hospitality from the staff, led by Danny, which creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a delightful Sunday dinner at home. The restaurant's cozy and inviting ambiance further enhances the focus on traditional Italian cuisine. A unique bring-your-own-wine (BYOB) and cash-only policy make this hidden gem a memorable venue for an evening out.
A recent visit by four individuals at 6 pm on a Saturday proved to be an exceptional experience. Equipped with their own wine, they were greeted by Danny and offered a delicious chicken soup as the first course. The meal progressed with peppers, bread, and a generously-sized antipasto salad featuring homemade dressing, followed by even more delectable offerings. Macaroni with savory meatballs, sausage, and greens, along with a sublime eggplant parmesan impressed the diners. The dessert comprised ice cream, and despite being unable to consume anything further, they took home leftovers to savor later. Danny's extraordinary hospitality ensured that the guests cannot wait to return for another unforgettable dining experience.
Trattoria Calabria provides a remarkable dining experience for its patrons. The establishment's eight-course meal consists of a diverse array of Italian dishes, such as bean soup, bruschetta, antipasto salad, mussels in garlic wine sauce, and eggplant parmesan. Guests can enjoy warm hospitality from the staff, led by Danny, which creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a delightful Sunday dinner at home. The restaurant's cozy and inviting ambiance further enhances the focus on traditional Italian cuisine. A unique bring-your-own-wine (BYOB) and cash-only policy make this hidden gem a memorable venue for an evening out.
A recent visit by four individuals at 6 pm on a Saturday proved to be an exceptional experience. Equipped with their own wine, they were greeted by Danny and offered a delicious chicken soup as the first course. The meal progressed with peppers, bread, and a generously-sized antipasto salad featuring homemade dressing, followed by even more delectable offerings. Macaroni with savory meatballs, sausage, and greens, along with a sublime eggplant parmesan impressed the diners. The dessert comprised ice cream, and despite being unable to consume anything further, they took home leftovers to savor later. Danny's extraordinary hospitality ensured that the guests cannot wait to return for another unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
6. Nostro Restobar and Lounge
Modern Italian cuisine meets mid-century modern design.
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Nostro Restobar and Lounge offers a unique dining experience that combines modern Italian cuisine with the charm of mid-century modern design. The restaurant, located in a former Oneida National Bank lobby, creates a stylish atmosphere featuring simple yet delicious dishes, complemented by a selection of classic cocktails and prosecco.
The restaurant's staff provide exceptional service, making diners feel welcome and well taken care of. With a menu featuring an impressive selection of wines and standout pasta dishes, Nostro Restobar and Lounge is sure to delight even the most discerning of palates. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and sophisticated ambiance makes for a dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable.
Nostro Restobar and Lounge offers a unique dining experience that combines modern Italian cuisine with the charm of mid-century modern design. The restaurant, located in a former Oneida National Bank lobby, creates a stylish atmosphere featuring simple yet delicious dishes, complemented by a selection of classic cocktails and prosecco.
The restaurant's staff provide exceptional service, making diners feel welcome and well taken care of. With a menu featuring an impressive selection of wines and standout pasta dishes, Nostro Restobar and Lounge is sure to delight even the most discerning of palates. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and sophisticated ambiance makes for a dining experience that is both memorable and enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Ancora!
Savor every bite of our Mediterranean and Italian cuisine.
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Ancora, a popular dining establishment in the Utica area and Central New York, is known for its exceptional food and atmosphere. The paella, in particular, is a must-try dish and is widely regarded as one of the best in the region.
Ancora is a top choice for those looking for a great dining experience in Utica. The restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. Despite the widespread staffing issues seen in the industry, Ancora continues to handle it all with grace and professionalism. It is truly a standout in the local dining scene and well worth a visit.
Ancora, a popular dining establishment in the Utica area and Central New York, is known for its exceptional food and atmosphere. The paella, in particular, is a must-try dish and is widely regarded as one of the best in the region.
Ancora is a top choice for those looking for a great dining experience in Utica. The restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. Despite the widespread staffing issues seen in the industry, Ancora continues to handle it all with grace and professionalism. It is truly a standout in the local dining scene and well worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
8. Joey's @307 Restaurant
Classic Italian-American dishes with a modern twist.
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Joey's @307 in Utica is an Italian restaurant that exceeded expectations and can be considered as a must-visit for anyone looking to have a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. The food is incredibly delicious, with the riggies being a standout dish. The quality of the food and its preparation is evident in every bite, making for a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
The customer service at Joey's @307 is top-notch, with every staff member going out of their way to ensure that guests feel welcome and well taken care of. The friendly service complements the excellent food, making each dining experience enjoyable and memorable. Repeat customers have consistently praised the restaurant for its outstanding food and service, highlighting the riggies as a must-try dish. Joey's @307 has earned a reputation for excellence in Utica, with many considering it one of the best Italian restaurants in town.
Joey's @307 in Utica is an Italian restaurant that exceeded expectations and can be considered as a must-visit for anyone looking to have a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. The food is incredibly delicious, with the riggies being a standout dish. The quality of the food and its preparation is evident in every bite, making for a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
The customer service at Joey's @307 is top-notch, with every staff member going out of their way to ensure that guests feel welcome and well taken care of. The friendly service complements the excellent food, making each dining experience enjoyable and memorable. Repeat customers have consistently praised the restaurant for its outstanding food and service, highlighting the riggies as a must-try dish. Joey's @307 has earned a reputation for excellence in Utica, with many considering it one of the best Italian restaurants in town.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
9. Milano Restaurant
A memorable dining experience with large portions and reasonable prices.
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The restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with delicious food and commendable service. The haddock oreganato, in particular, is a must-try with its succulent taste and large portion size, accompanied by an equally satisfying side of parmesan risotto. The staff, including the owner, proved to be consistently attentive and went the extra mile to ensure guests' needs were met.
During a busy Friday night, the establishment proved it can handle high volumes of guests without compromising on the quality of the service or food. The fish fry was cooked to perfection - crispy and flavorful with a large portion of mouth-watering fries. The chicken riggies offered a spicy kick that satisfied spice enthusiasts. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of food and service provided. All in all, it was a wonderful dining experience, leaving a lasting impression and an eagerness for a repeat visit.
The restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with delicious food and commendable service. The haddock oreganato, in particular, is a must-try with its succulent taste and large portion size, accompanied by an equally satisfying side of parmesan risotto. The staff, including the owner, proved to be consistently attentive and went the extra mile to ensure guests' needs were met.
During a busy Friday night, the establishment proved it can handle high volumes of guests without compromising on the quality of the service or food. The fish fry was cooked to perfection - crispy and flavorful with a large portion of mouth-watering fries. The chicken riggies offered a spicy kick that satisfied spice enthusiasts. The prices were very reasonable for the quality of food and service provided. All in all, it was a wonderful dining experience, leaving a lasting impression and an eagerness for a repeat visit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
10. Franco's Pizza & Italian Deli
Serving Utica's best pizza for over 40 years!
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A fortunate stop on the way to Boston led to the discovery of a hidden gem: Francos Pizzeria. The pizza slices were so delicious that the decision was made to stop again on the way back home. The pizza was excellent on both occasions, leading to a memorable experience and a strong desire to return.
Francos Pizzeria is the last remaining pizzeria from the original three that were established in North Utica in the 70's. Despite the passage of time, Francos continues to serve the best Utica-style pizza in the Mohawk Valley. The pizza sauce has a unique and slightly sweeter taste compared to other pizza joints in the area. The pizzeria is a must-visit for pizza lovers looking to experience the authentic taste of Utica-style pizza.
A fortunate stop on the way to Boston led to the discovery of a hidden gem: Francos Pizzeria. The pizza slices were so delicious that the decision was made to stop again on the way back home. The pizza was excellent on both occasions, leading to a memorable experience and a strong desire to return.
Francos Pizzeria is the last remaining pizzeria from the original three that were established in North Utica in the 70's. Despite the passage of time, Francos continues to serve the best Utica-style pizza in the Mohawk Valley. The pizza sauce has a unique and slightly sweeter taste compared to other pizza joints in the area. The pizzeria is a must-visit for pizza lovers looking to experience the authentic taste of Utica-style pizza.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
11. Pizzeria Italia
Sink Your Teeth Into a Slice of Perfection!
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The CBR pizza ordered last month was exceptional, with a perfect balance of ingredients and toppings. The garlic knots were equally delightful, generously sized and bursting with flavor. This week's hot chicken wing pizza did not disappoint, featuring a delicious and fiery hot sauce that was truly enjoyable. The chicken fingers were another hit, with a crispy breading and mouthwatering flavor. The customer service is always commendable, and the food's consistency makes it a reliable choice.
Making our first visit to this establishment, we were thoroughly impressed with the pizza and steak sub, as well as the crispy fries and tasty chicken fingers. The pizza, in particular, was outstanding, and the steak sub was equally impressive. With a perfect 10/10 rating, we highly recommend this spot for anyone craving delicious pizza. Based on our first experience, it's sure to become a new favorite!
The CBR pizza ordered last month was exceptional, with a perfect balance of ingredients and toppings. The garlic knots were equally delightful, generously sized and bursting with flavor. This week's hot chicken wing pizza did not disappoint, featuring a delicious and fiery hot sauce that was truly enjoyable. The chicken fingers were another hit, with a crispy breading and mouthwatering flavor. The customer service is always commendable, and the food's consistency makes it a reliable choice.
Making our first visit to this establishment, we were thoroughly impressed with the pizza and steak sub, as well as the crispy fries and tasty chicken fingers. The pizza, in particular, was outstanding, and the steak sub was equally impressive. With a perfect 10/10 rating, we highly recommend this spot for anyone craving delicious pizza. Based on our first experience, it's sure to become a new favorite!
12. O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria
Unique pizza with cheese below and sauce on top.
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O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is widely praised for its delicious and freshly made food, with generous portions that leave customers feeling satisfied. The service is also noted for being attentive and efficient, adding to the overall positive dining experience. However, there have been some differing opinions regarding the pizza. While many customers rave about its unique and special taste, a few have criticized it for being cold or overcooked.
As a Utica institution, O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is known for serving up some of the best pizza in upstate New York. Their distinctive cooking method, which involves baking the dough and mozzarella until crispy before topping it with warm sauce and parmesan cheese, is truly exceptional. This approach sets them apart from other pizzerias and has earned them a loyal following. Despite the occasional criticism, the vast majority of customers agree that O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.
O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is widely praised for its delicious and freshly made food, with generous portions that leave customers feeling satisfied. The service is also noted for being attentive and efficient, adding to the overall positive dining experience. However, there have been some differing opinions regarding the pizza. While many customers rave about its unique and special taste, a few have criticized it for being cold or overcooked.
As a Utica institution, O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is known for serving up some of the best pizza in upstate New York. Their distinctive cooking method, which involves baking the dough and mozzarella until crispy before topping it with warm sauce and parmesan cheese, is truly exceptional. This approach sets them apart from other pizzerias and has earned them a loyal following. Despite the occasional criticism, the vast majority of customers agree that O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria is a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.
13. Rosario's Pizzeria East Utica
A family affair serving fresh Italian food for almost 40 years.
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Rosario's fast food is nothing short of impressive, with a consistency in quality that has kept customers coming back for decades. The menu offers a variety of comfort food at affordable prices, with periodic adjustments to keep the offerings fresh and exciting.
The takeout experience at Rosario's has been a standout during the pandemic, providing a reliable and delicious alternative to dining out. The restaurant's popularity among independent living communities is a testament to its quality and affordability. The owner's graciousness and the delightful lunch have prompted plans for a return visit.
Rosario's fast food is nothing short of impressive, with a consistency in quality that has kept customers coming back for decades. The menu offers a variety of comfort food at affordable prices, with periodic adjustments to keep the offerings fresh and exciting.
The takeout experience at Rosario's has been a standout during the pandemic, providing a reliable and delicious alternative to dining out. The restaurant's popularity among independent living communities is a testament to its quality and affordability. The owner's graciousness and the delightful lunch have prompted plans for a return visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
14. Chesterfield's Tavolo
Contemporary twists on classic Italian dishes.
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The food at this establishment was expertly prepared, with delicious sauces and innovative combinations. My dining partner had expressed a desire for veal parmesan, which was not listed on the menu. Upon request, the chef was able to accommodate this request, and the resulting dish was well-received. My own entree consisted of a perfectly seasoned salmon and shrimp dish, served in a rich tomato cream sauce. The salmon was slightly overcooked, with slightly overdone edges, but still managed to retain its flavor.
The overall experience at this restaurant was a positive one. Despite some previous negative comments that had been shared with us, our visit proved delightful. The pesto rigatoni dish featured a strong, fresh basil taste and a delectable light cream sauce. The portion size was generous, and both my friends who ordered it were highly satisfied. The lasagna was also a success, with its well-balanced layers and light, flavorful sauce. The dinner salad was plentiful and served as a refreshing accompaniment to our entrees. The service was top-notch, with the waitstaff providing attentive and professional care throughout the evening.
The food at this establishment was expertly prepared, with delicious sauces and innovative combinations. My dining partner had expressed a desire for veal parmesan, which was not listed on the menu. Upon request, the chef was able to accommodate this request, and the resulting dish was well-received. My own entree consisted of a perfectly seasoned salmon and shrimp dish, served in a rich tomato cream sauce. The salmon was slightly overcooked, with slightly overdone edges, but still managed to retain its flavor.
The overall experience at this restaurant was a positive one. Despite some previous negative comments that had been shared with us, our visit proved delightful. The pesto rigatoni dish featured a strong, fresh basil taste and a delectable light cream sauce. The portion size was generous, and both my friends who ordered it were highly satisfied. The lasagna was also a success, with its well-balanced layers and light, flavorful sauce. The dinner salad was plentiful and served as a refreshing accompaniment to our entrees. The service was top-notch, with the waitstaff providing attentive and professional care throughout the evening.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots