Best Sicilian Restaurants in Lower East Side

50 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Piccola Cucina Estiatorio restaurant

1. Piccola Cucina Estiatorio

4.7

Exceptional(1607)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • SoHo

Booked 84 times today

Piccola Cucina Estiatorio, nestled in the vibrant SoHo neighborhood of New York City, is a gem for lovers of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, with a special focus on Sicilian and Greek dishes. Diners rave about the "authentic, delicious Italian cuisine" and the "best tiramisu and cannolis." The atmosphere is described as "cozy" and "charming," providing a delightful backdrop to every meal. Frequent guests highlight the consistent quality, saying it's the "best Italian restaurant in NYC" and praise its "amazing food and service." Whether it's the "stunning experience all around" or the "best grilled calamari ever had," Piccola Cucina Estiatorio stands out as a must-visit for an authentic Mediterranean dining experience right in the heart of the city.

A photo of Piccola Cucina Uptown restaurant

2. Piccola Cucina Uptown

4.7

Exceptional(2091)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Upper East Side

Booked 124 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.

A photo of Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC restaurant

3. Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC

4.6

Exceptional(29440)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Theater District

Booked 459 times today

Carmine's on 44th Street in NYC's Theater District embodies the essence of Southern Italian cuisine, offering a dining experience akin to an Italian American wedding feast. Guests rave about the "abundant portions" and "authentic flavors," highlighting dishes like the "best chicken Parm ever" and "fantastic lasagna." Known for its family-style servings, Carmine's creates a convivial atmosphere where "every meal feels like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's." Reviewers consistently praise the "amazing atmosphere" and "excellent service," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a traditional yet exceptional Italian meal in the heart of Times Square.

A photo of Piccola Cucina Osteria - Spring St. restaurant

4. Piccola Cucina Osteria - Spring St.

4.7

Exceptional(2468)

Price: Expensive

• Sicilian • SoHo

Booked 46 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of SoHo, New York, Piccola Cucina Osteria - Spring St. is a treasure trove of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, specifically showcasing the rich flavors of Sicily. Since its opening in 2013 by Chef and owner Philip Guardione, it has become a beloved spot for food enthusiasts seeking the true taste of Italy. Patrons rave about its "amazing" food and "authentic ambiance," with dishes that transport you straight to Sicily. The restaurant is renowned for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with service that makes diners feel like family. Reviewers consistently highlight the unforgettable culinary experiences, such as the "mind-blowingly delicious" Sicilian sardine pasta and the table-side tiramisu that brought tears to a diner's eyes. Piccola Cucina Osteria is not just a meal; it's a journey through the heart of Mediterranean culinary tradition, right in SoHo.

5. Osteria Nonnino

4.5

Awesome(216)

Price: Expensive

• Sicilian • West Village

Booked 75 times today

Nestled in the vibrant West Village of New York, Osteria Nonnino offers a stellar dining experience with its contemporary Italian cuisine that blends the culinary traditions of northern and southern Italy. Chef Tony Kavaja, along with his wife Vita Russo, crafts authentic Italian dishes that resonate with diners. The rave reviews highlight dishes like the "fabulous" Orecchiette Con Bufala and the table-side Cacio e Pepe, emphasizing freshness and authenticity. Guests are especially fond of the "delicious and perfectly prepared" entrees and desserts, like the tiramisu made fresh at your table, which one diner described as "life-changing!" The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a neighborhood gem, where every meal feels like a special occasion. This blend of excellent food, immersive ambiance, and warm hospitality ensures Osteria Nonnino is not just a meal, but a memorable experience, making it a must-visit for lovers of refined Italian cuisine.

6. Il Melograno

4.8

Exceptional(1284)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 6 times today

Il Melograno in Hell's Kitchen is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, right in the heart of New York City. Celebrated for bringing the essence of Sicily to the bustling streets of Manhattan, this charming restaurant is lauded for its "extraordinary experience" with "pure and divine" Sicilian fare, as one diner raves. From handcrafted pastas to meticulously prepared dishes that taste of "genuine love and care," every meal at Il Melograno promises a taste of Italian grandmother's kitchen. Guests consistently praise the "amazing homemade pastas" and the warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Italian meal.

7. Bar Primi Bowery

4.6

Exceptional(1434)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Lower East Side

Booked 4 times today

Bar Primi is a corner pasta shop devoted to ‘primi piatti,’ the pasta course. What began as an idea for a small space in New York's East Village has since become an essential in chef and co-owner Andrew Carmellini's range: fresh pasta traditionally prepared and cooked to order. At Bar Primi, the main course is Primi Piatti. We use a variety of non-GMO semolina and specialty ‘00’ flours, organic eggs and handed-down techniques to create our menu of Traditional and Seasonal pasta dishes. We make more than a dozen different shapes and styles daily. This includes lumache and rigatoni from our imported extruder or ravioli and mezzalune cut and filled by hand. Family recipes and secrets are traded between Carmellini and Brooklyn-born chef-partner Salvatore Lamboglia who also offers a daily meat or seafood special in addition to a selection of shareable Piccolini and Antipasti, artisanal cheese, salumi and simple home-style desserts.

A photo of Piccola Cucina Casa restaurant

8. Piccola Cucina Casa

4.9

Exceptional(68)

Price: Expensive

• Sicilian • Boerum Hill

Booked 25 times today

Piccola Cucina Casa in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, is a beacon of Sicilian authenticity and culinary delight. Chef Philip Guardione masterfully brings the essence of Sicily to the heart of Brooklyn, crafting dishes that transport diners straight to the Italian island. The restaurant's atmosphere, described as both "beautiful" and "cozy," complements its exceptional cuisine, with rave reviews like "the food was absolutely delicious, every bite was packed with authentic Italian flavors." The homemade pastas and vibrant Sicilian specialties, such as the acclaimed table-side tiramisu, set this establishment apart. Enthusiastic patrons often remark, "this is one of the best meals I have had in a while," and praise its "wonderful service and vibe." Piccola Cucina Casa is not just a meal; it's an experience of genuine Sicilian gastronomy right in New York.

A photo of Isabelle’s Osteria restaurant

9. Isabelle’s Osteria

4.6

Exceptional(698)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Gramercy Park

Booked 44 times today

Isabelle’s Osteria in Gramercy Park, NYC, is a beacon of Mediterranean excellence, offering a menu that captures the essence of Italian culinary traditions. Diners rave about the authenticity and quality of the cuisine, with standout dishes like the "best ever calamari" and perfectly cooked steak, elevating each meal into a memorable dining experience. The ambiance is described as "great," with a well-thought-out decor and spacing that enhances the overall atmosphere. Reviewers consistently highlight the restaurant's ability to turn a simple meal into a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, making Isabelle's Osteria a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of New York.

10. La Masseria

4.8

Exceptional(6702)

Price: Expensive

• Sicilian • Theater District

Booked 66 times today

La Masseria Restaurant is inspired from ancient fortified farmhouses that in the Puglia Region of Italy are called “Masseria”. Executive Chef/Co-Owner, Pino Coladonato, grew up on a Farm in Puglia. He was forced to eat whatever was available but soon was tired of bean puree and decided to take matters into his own hands, creating new ways to use the same few ingredients. Now, with limitless ingredients to choose from, fava beans, chickpeas and lentils are still a core element in many of his entrees. Interior Designer Libby Langdon has created a warm, inviting dining atmosphere. Rustic and relaxed, with plenty of old world charm. Oversize iron sconces custom made from antique wrought iron gates punctuate the walls, and artful displays of antique farm tools mixed with various authentic Italian photographs all add to the farmhouse appeal. The 250-bottle wine list encompasses all regions of Italy with few of the best American and the rest of the world.

‘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

R
Rayzl
New York City •12 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
We really enjoyed our time in this restaurant- we asked for a table in the back where there are only 3 tables. The main dining room is a little too noisy for older ears! Good delicious. Wait staff - earnest.
More info
Osteria NonninoPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Village
•
4.5
A
Andrea
New York City •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Piccola Cucina never disappoints. Personnel is kind and attentive, the food is outstanding and the noise is decent. My go-to place when I crave Italian food! Burrata is always fresh and there are so many pastas that you can go several times in a row without eating the same thing. Alfio is the sweetest and kindest host, but everyone is really great.
More info
Piccola Cucina EstiatorioPrice: Moderate• Italian• SoHo
•
4.7
L
Linda
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined on 16 Nov 2024
Dinner was wonderful, mostly because our waitstaff Elideth was able to make the perfect wine and food recommendations. Our table was in the middle of what is a small space, so it felt crowded. But the delicious meal and wonderful service made up for that.
More info
Piccola Cucina Osteria - Spring St.Price: Expensive• Italian• SoHo
•
4.7

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Lower East Side

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Best Sicilian Restaurants in Lower East Side

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50 restaurants available nearby

1. Piccola Cucina Estiatorio

2. Piccola Cucina Uptown

3. Carmine's - 44th Street - NYC

4. Piccola Cucina Osteria - Spring St.

5. Osteria Nonnino

6. Il Melograno

7. Bar Primi Bowery

8. Piccola Cucina Casa

9. Isabelle’s Osteria

10. La Masseria

See what locals rave about

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