24 Best Sicilian Restaurants in New York City
Sicilian Restaurants in New York City: A Culinary Journey Through the Isle of Sicily in the Heart of the Big Apple. Indulge in an unparalleled gastronomic experience as you explore the rich, tantalizing flavors of Sicilian cuisine right in the bustling metropolis of New York City. These restaurants bring the sun-kissed shores and lush, fertile landscapes of Sicily straight to your table.
- 1. Sicily Osteria
- 2. Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana
- 3. Norma
- 4. Piccola Cucina Estiatorio
- 5. Norma Hell's Kitchen
- 6. Bar Primi
- 7. Via Della Pace
- 8. Giano
- 9. Nica Trattoria
- 10. Piccola Cucina Uptown
- 11. Da Andrea
- 12. Il Melograno
- 13. Joe & Pat’s NYC
- 14. Osteria Carlina West Village
- 15. Joe's of Avenue U
- 16. Ferdinando's Focacceria
- 17. Cacio e Pepe
- 18. Pastai Restaurant
- 19. La Vela
- 20. Trattoria Casa Di Isacco
- 21. Cacio E Vino
- 22. I Sodi
- 23. Famous Ben's Pizza
- 24. Amuni
1. Sicily Osteria
Offers a unique and traditional dining experience in the heart of New York City
The restaurant, located in Sicily, offers exceptional and authentic Sicilian cuisine that is sure to impress. The food is carefully prepared and served by a friendly and efficient staff, contributing to an overall enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal.
During a search for a place to eat before a Broadway show, this restaurant stood out for its impressive ambiance and class. The lush greenery and welcoming atmosphere makes it feel as if you've been transported back to Sicily. The food is fantastic and the service is on par with the beautiful setting. It's clear that this restaurant takes pride in providing a top-notch dining experience for its patrons.
2. Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana
Authentic Sicilian dishes with a modern twist
Pasta is a popular dish at this Italian dining establishment, with many reviewers raving about its delicious taste. However, some reviewers have mentioned that the pasta was overcooked or too al dente for their personal preferences. Despite the occasional inconsistency with the pasta, this restaurant is still highly regarded for its authentic Italian cuisine.
The dining experience at this restaurant is often described as excellent, featuring a cozy ambiance that transports diners to Sicily. Seating is limited, so it is advisable to make a reservation in advance to ensure a spot. Despite the small seating area, the charming atmosphere and delicious food make this a must-visit location for Italian food lovers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
3. Norma
Exclusive wine tastings and events
Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its unique and delicious flavors. One standout dish is pasta alla Norma, which combines succulent eggplant, ripe tomatoes, and creamy ricotta cheese with pasta. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to delight.
Arancini are another Sicilian specialty that should not be underestimated. These are not simply "rice balls" as they are sometimes referred to, but rather a delicious and intricate dish made with arborio rice, savory ragù, and mozzarella cheese, all battered and fried to perfection. Arancini are a true testament to the sophistication and artistry of Sicilian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
4. Piccola Cucina Estiatorio
A taste of Greece in the heart of New York City
Pasta dishes have received positive feedback from customers, with one dish in particular, the Tagliatelle Verdi Con Ragu di Cinghiale Aromatizzato Alle Erbe E Tartufo Nero, garnering significant attention. This pasta is highly regarded for its freshness and strong flavor, although a few customers have noted that it can be quite salty.
The lobster linguine dish, on the other hand, has received mixed reviews. While some customers have praised it for its freshness and delightful sour taste, others have found it to be less impressive, citing an average flavor. Nevertheless, some reviewers have appreciated the texture of the spaghetti in this dish.
5. Norma Hell's Kitchen
Offers a unique dining experience with its gothic-inspired decor
Google reviews for 'Norma' are impressive, with 571 reviews and a 4.6 rating out of 5, making it a highly-ranked and well-reviewed restaurant. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are required for groups of six or more. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and European customers will appreciate the quality service, which differs from the fast-paced American style. 'Norma' is an authentic Sicilian restaurant that rivals even the best Italian eateries in Venice.
A customer's recommendation led the reviewer and their partner to 'Norma.' They were pleased with the restaurant's food, price, service, and location. The gnocchi and fettuccine al ragu were delicious. Water was the only beverage they ordered, but the reasonable prices made it an affordable and satisfying meal. The reviewer did not specify whether they were European or American, but they clearly enjoyed the Sicilian cuisine and the overall dining experience at 'Norma.'
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
6. Bar Primi
Offers a unique and authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of New York City
Bar Primi, a restaurant known for its variety of non-GMO semolina and specialty '00' flours, organic eggs, and traditional cooking techniques, has received 4.2 stars from 417 reviews. Upon entering, guests are met with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Brussel sprouts with pepperoni and grated parmesan are a standout dish, being rated as one of the best versions tried. However, other dishes were not as successful. Complimentary meatballs were described as boring, and the squid ink campanelle with crab and hot pepper was gluey despite having a decent taste. The spaghetti and clams dish featured fresh and sweet tiny clams, but the pasta and sauce were uninspired.
At Bar Primi, the ambiance is warm and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the dining experience. The Brussel sprouts dish with pepperoni and parmesan was a hit, but other dishes fell short. The meatballs were not memorable, and the squid ink campanelle had a good taste but was too gluey. While the spaghetti and clams dish had fresh and sweet clams, the pasta and sauce lacked excitement. Out of the 417 reviews, the restaurant received 4.2 stars, indicating that the overall experience was positive but had some areas for improvement.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
7. Via Della Pace
Historic building with a rooftop deck and garden
The restaurant, reminiscent of an authentic Italian trattoria, offers delicious and high-quality food that could easily be mistaken for a meal in Italy. The affordable prices, coupled with exceptional service, make it a standout spot in NYC. The lasagna, specifically, is a must-try, known for its homemade goodness.
The reviewer has dined at this establishment before and continues to be impressed by the food's consistency. The lasagna, in particular, is a highlight, along with the exceptional mushroom appetizer. The service is commendable, although there is a fine line between attentiveness and feeling rushed. Nonetheless, the positive aspects of the restaurant outweigh any minor drawbacks, and the reviewer plans to return in the future.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
8. Giano
Historic building with beautiful decor and exceptional cuisine
Giano is a restaurant that provides a delightful Sicilian dining experience. Their pasta is cooked to perfection, with a texture that is neither too soft nor too hard. The sauces that accompany the pasta are rich and full of flavor, enhancing the dining experience.
If you're looking to try authentic Sicilian pasta dishes, Giano is the place to go. The flavors are incredibly authentic, reminiscent of a trip to Sicily. The pasta dishes are a must-try for anyone seeking a true Sicilian culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
9. Nica Trattoria
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes for over 20 years
Nica Trattoria is known for its Sicilian and Italian cuisine, featuring fresh market ingredients in dishes such as their popular gnocchi. Inquiring with the server or even the owner, Giuseppe, can result in expert wine pairing recommendations for any meal or dish. However, opinions about the service vary, with some customers praising the staff for their friendliness and creating a welcoming atmosphere, while others find the service to be off-putting, described as condescending and aggressive.
In summary, Nica Trattoria is a restaurant specializing in Italian and Sicilian recipes, using only the freshest ingredients. Their gnocchi dish is particularly popular, and they offer wine pairing suggestions to enhance the dining experience. The service at the restaurant has been described as either warm and inviting or off-putting, with some customers experiencing condescending and aggressive behavior.
10. Piccola Cucina Uptown
Offers a popular prix fixe lunch menu
The restaurant in question, located on the upper east side, claimed to serve authentic Italian food, particularly from Sicily. I was expecting a delicious and satisfying meal, but unfortunately, I was disappointed. To improve the taste, I had to add two different types of cheese at home.
As for the restaurant's positive aspects, it excelled in various areas. The food, specifically Sicilian cuisine, was top-notch. The staff was friendly and attentive, providing excellent service. Moreover, the seating area was well-appointed, making for a comfortable dining experience.
11. Da Andrea
Family-owned trattoria with a long history in Greenwich Village
The delivery service of this establishment is reliable and quick, with a friendly and efficient team. Customers can expect to receive their orders in a timely manner, and the food arrives in excellent condition.
One of the standout menu items is the pasta, which has received high praise from many users. The pasta is fresh and full of flavor, and there are several popular dishes to choose from. These include the truffle pasta, penne con melanzane, mozzarella con pomodoro e origano ravioli di vitello e spinaci con salsa ai funghi e prosciutto. These dishes are highly recommended for those looking to sample the best of the menu.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Il Melograno
Chef owned and operated with a focus on authentic Italian dishes.
Il Melograno, located in Hell's Kitchen, offers a taste of Italy with original recipes, hand-crafted pastas, and friendly hospitality. The restaurant is owned by Lino and Gregory, who moved to New York City from Sicily, bringing with them the best of Southern Italian culinary traditions. The food at Il Melograno is highly regarded for its freshness, homemade quality, and delicious flavors, all at reasonable prices. Many guests have praised the pasta, noting that it is made in-house and satisfies their cravings.
The ambiance at Il Melograno is casual and unique, making it a great spot for a variety of occasions. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish, as they strive to bring the true flavors of Italy to New York City. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends, Il Melograno is the perfect spot to experience the best of Italian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
13. Joe & Pat’s NYC
A classic NYC pizzeria with a cozy and casual atmosphere
Joe & Pat's NYC is a must-visit restaurant for fans of Sicilian cuisine. Their pizza features a crispy crust, while the pasta dishes perfectly capture the traditional flavors of Sicily. The restaurant provides a delightful dining experience, offering authentic Italian dishes that will transport you to the heart of Sicily.
The thin-crust pizza at Joe & Pat's NYC is a standout, with a perfectly crispy texture that is sure to impress. In addition to their pizza, the restaurant offers a range of Italian dishes that are true to their Sicilian roots. From the moment you enter, you are transported to a place where the food and atmosphere combine to create a truly memorable dining experience.
14. Osteria Carlina West Village
A taste of Italy in the heart of West Village
Osteria Carlina, a restaurant in the West Village, offers a distinctive dining experience with its refined Northern Italian cuisine and exceptional service. The menu features dishes that are well-prepared and sophisticated, a departure from the typical Southern Italian fare found in many Village establishments.
The wine list at Osteria Carlina is impressive, with a wide selection that complements the menu. The quality of the food and wine is commendable, and the prices are fair, making for a very satisfying dining experience. This is Italian cuisine at its best, with a taste that is true to its origins.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
15. Joe's of Avenue U
A long-standing, family-owned Italian restaurant in Brooklyn with a nostalgic charm and a loyal customer base
Joe's of Avenue U is highly regarded for its authentic, delicious, and filling Sicilian cuisine. Reviewers often rave about dishes such as pasta con sardi and broccoli rabe, indicating the high quality of the food. The restaurant offers a large menu featuring Sicilian specialties, with a display case showcasing hot food and cozy booths and tables in the dining area.
Sicilian paraphernalia adorns the restaurant, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Customers can enjoy the delicious and substantial Sicilian dishes in a warm and welcoming environment. The menu offers a range of options, with hot food on display and a variety of seating options. Overall, Joe's of Avenue U is a must-visit for fans of Sicilian cuisine.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
16. Ferdinando's Focacceria
Authentic Sicilian cuisine in Brooklyn since 1904
Ferdinando's Focacceria is a long-standing establishment in Brooklyn's Carroll Gardens, known for its delicious Sicilian-American cuisine. The restaurant's menu has remained consistent over the years, offering a simple yet appetizing selection of dishes that showcase traditional Sicilian flavors. As a well-loved neighborhood Italian eatery, Ferdinando's has been serving the community since 1904 and takes pride in its Sicilian specialties.
One such specialty is the pasta con sarde, an unusual pasta dish made with sardines in a unique sauce. The combination of sardines with pasta may seem unconventional to some, but at Ferdinando's, it is a beloved menu item that has garnered praise from its patrons. The pasta con sarde is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to preserving and celebrating Sicilian culinary traditions, offering a distinctive and satisfying dining experience for its customers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
17. Cacio e Pepe
A hidden gem in East Village for authentic Cacio e Pepe
The food at this establishment is consistently described as wonderful, delicious, and mouthwatering. Among the many dishes, the pasta selections were particularly standout, with the cacio e pepe sauce being especially well-received. The eggplant parmigiana dish was another popular choice.
The service at this restaurant is exceptional, with users praising it as fantastic, attentive, and friendly. While some users reported that the service could be abrupt, they noted that it was also authentically Italian. Overall, users felt that the service was worth every penny.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
18. Pastai Restaurant
Known for their homemade pasta and traditional Tuscan dishes
The service at this establishment is consistently described as friendly, attentive, and prompt. Some guests have even gone so far as to praise the service for being above and beyond their expectations. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it an ideal location for a variety of occasions.
In addition to the exceptional service, the meals at this Italian restaurant are a standout feature. One diner, who has had considerable experience with Italian cuisine, declared that they had the best pasta they had ever tasted there. Specifically, they raved about the PACCHERI ALLA GENOVESE, which features slow-cooked grass fed flank steak ragù.
19. La Vela
Hosts events for up to 3000 guests with in-house catering
Tony, Remi, Diego, and the rest of the staff at this establishment provide excellent service, ensuring a memorable experience for guests. The location has been a consistent favorite, offering delicious pizzas made in a traditional coal fire kiln.
This Midtown staple is well-known for its exceptional pizzas, cooked to perfection in a visible coal fire oven. Patrons enjoy the lively atmosphere, which includes watching the culinary team craft these highly-regarded pies.
20. Trattoria Casa Di Isacco
Family-owned trattoria with a focus on authentic Italian cuisine
A week ago, while in Hell's Kitchen, my friends and I discovered a charming Italian restaurant. The cozy interior featured a rustic brick wall, cured hams hanging from the ceiling, and shelves filled with homemade sangria and grappa infusions. One of the highlights of our meal was the Grilled Baby Squid special, which showcased an aromatic blend of garlic, rosemary, and perfectly cooked squid, thanks to one of the owner's original recipes.
If you're looking for authentic Italian food in NYC, this is the place to be. The seafood pasta was fresh and bursting with flavor, making us feel as if we were dining in Italy. This restaurant is highly recommended for anyone seeking a genuine Sicilian culinary experience.
21. Cacio E Vino
Unique cheese-centric Italian menu
Cacio e Vino, a renowned Sicilian restaurant in the East Village, has expanded its menu to offer traditional Bucatini con le sarde and 13 varieties of Nero d’Avola wine. Nero d’Avola is a significant red grape wine in Sicily, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to providing authentic Sicilian wine and cuisine.
In 2008, Cacio e Vino was recognized as the best Sicilian restaurant by Italy's esteemed Accademia Italiana della Cucina, reinforcing its reputation for exceptional Sicilian dishes and wines. The restaurant has become a top choice for those seeking a fine dining experience specializing in Sicilian wine and cuisine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
22. I Sodi
Offers a unique and delicious fusion of southern and Italian cuisine
My friend and I went to I Sodi one evening without a reservation. Even though we had to wait at the door with other people, they graciously found us a spot at the bar. The restaurant has a simple and welcoming atmosphere, with a vast menu that features approachable dishes. We found it difficult to choose what to order because everything sounded delicious.
Rita Sodi is known for running two of the most popular Italian restaurants in Manhattan, and I Sodi is one of them. Its cozy and lively ambiance makes it a challenging reservation to secure, so I recommend trying for an early walk-in. The kitchen takes advantage of seasonal ingredients in their daily specials, while also keeping some signature dishes on the menu. The lasagna is a must-try for first-timers, and its perfect layers are a delightful contrast to the tangy pappardelle al limon.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
23. Famous Ben's Pizza
A classic New York pizzeria with a storied history and famous fans
Ben's Pizza is well-known for its exceptional Sicilian slices, which are widely considered the best in the city. One standout option is the Palermo Sicilian Pizza, which features a distinctive breadcrumb topping that sets it apart.
The Sicilian pizza at Ben's is a must-try for any pizza lover. The crust is thick and crispy, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. The toppings are always fresh and full of flavor, adding to the overall deliciousness of the pizza.
24. Amuni
The sandwiches at this establishment have received high praise for their delicious taste and diverse options, which include vegetarian choices. The eggplant sandwich stands out as a popular selection among patrons.
The service is another aspect that guests have raved about, mentioning its attentiveness, friendliness, and quickness. The level of service is described as being homelike and creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots