Carbonara is one of the most popular pasta dishes in New York City. Its creamy, bacon-infused sauce combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti or fettuccine makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
But with so many Italian restaurants and cafes spread throughout the city, it can be challenging to find the best carbonara spots. Luckily for you, we've got you covered.
In this blog post, we will explore the best places for carbonara in New York City. We will take you on a tour of the city's most iconic and hidden Italian gems, where you can indulge in a plate of mouth-watering carbonara.
Whether you're looking for a cozy, family-owned trattoria or a trendy restaurant with a modern twist, we've got something for everyone.
We'll dive into the origins of carbonara, the different variations you can find in the city, and the secret ingredients that make each dish unique.
You'll discover the best time to visit each restaurant, the ambiance, and the overall experience. We'll also include tips on how to order carbonara like a pro, so you can impress your friends and family with your newfound knowledge.
So, if you're a carbonara lover or simply looking for a new food adventure in the city, this blog post is for you.
Get ready to explore the best places for carbonara in New York City and discover your new favorite spot.
1. Olio e Piu
Olio e Piu is a must-visit Italian restaurant for anyone craving carbonara in the city.
The fresh ingredients and classic Italian style make for a delicious and authentic meal. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with ample seating options available.
The friendly staff provides excellent service and will make sure you have a great dining experience.
Don't forget to try their other dishes as well, as they are all equally delicious. Highly recommended for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
2. Rubirosa
Rubirosa is a hip Italian restaurant known for its excellent pizza and pasta.
The menu offers a variety of dishes in small and large portions, making it easy to find the right amount for your appetite. The atmosphere is dimly lit but comfortable, with a bustling energy.
The pizza crust is thin and crispy, with delicious toppings that allow all the flavors to shine. The pasta dishes are creamy, cheesy, and filling.
The cocktails are spot on, and the service is exceptional. If you're looking for a great place for carbonara, Rubirosa is definitely worth a visit.
3. Amici
Amici is a casual Italian restaurant that offers a variety of pasta dishes, including carbonara.
The food is authentic and delicious, with generous portions. The staff is attentive and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and service. Highly recommended for anyone in search of a great Italian meal.
4. Via Della Pace
Via Della Pace is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves the best carbonara in town. The owner, Giovanni, is warm and welcoming.
The menu offers a variety of bruschette, and the pasta is always fresh. The portions are reasonable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
The staff pays special attention to kids' orders, and the wine list is great.
The restaurant is lined with exposed brick, giving it a rustic feel. Highly recommended for those who love authentic Italian food.
5. Buona Notte
Buona Notte is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves delicious carbonara.
The ambiance is warm and intimate, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends. The menu features a variety of dishes, but the carbonara is a standout.
The sauce is full of flavor and the pasta is cooked perfectly. The service is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.
For those who prefer outdoor dining, there is a back garden patio. Buona Notte is definitely worth a visit for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine.
6. Spaghetti Incident
Spaghetti Incident is a cozy Italian kitchen that offers a variety of pasta dishes and Sicilian-style rice balls.
The exposed brick and dimly lit atmosphere create an intimate space for diners. The carbonara is a must-try, made with pancetta, parmigiano, organic yolk, and black pepper.
The pasta is always cooked to perfection and can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing good service to customers.
While the restaurant only accepts cash, the price to quality ratio is reasonable. Spaghetti Incident is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious Italian food in a comfortable and casual setting.
7. Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria
Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria is an upscale Mediterranean restaurant that serves carefully sourced plates in a rustic-chic space with a wine cellar.
The food is amazing, especially the carbonara, which is one of the best in the city. The pasta dishes are delicious, and the burger is also worth trying.
The service is great, and the ambiance is fantastic. The outdoor seating is a great addition, and the wine list has some real gems.
If you're looking for a casual-ish Italian restaurant with excellent food and a great atmosphere, Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria is the place to go.
8. Trattoria Dell'Arte
Trattoria Dell'Arte is a lively Tuscan trattoria that offers classic Italian dishes. The restaurant has a bustling scene, with Italian art on the walls and an antipasto bar.
The carbonara is a standout dish, with guanciale bacon that adds a perfect accent to the dish. The service is good, although the staff can be busy at times.
The ambiance is relaxing, making it a great place to have dinner. The restaurant is also known for its homemade foods, including meatballs, pizzas, and ravioli.
If you're looking for a solid Italian restaurant in the city, Trattoria Dell'Arte is definitely worth checking out.
9. Monte's Trattoria
Monte's Trattoria is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Italian food.
Their pasta carbonara is a standout dish that will leave you wanting more.
The restaurant has an old-school vibe and is perfect for a romantic night out or a family gathering.
The attentive and friendly staff make the dining experience even more enjoyable. Don't forget to save room for dessert!
10. dell'anima
Dell'anima is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves some of the best carbonara in town. The dish is delicious and unconventional, and the noodles are cooked to perfection.
The restaurant's ambiance is top-notch, with a cozy feel and brick walls that create a quaint atmosphere.
The service is excellent, with attentive waiters who allow diners to enjoy their meals at their own pace.
The menu is not extensive, but the dishes are consistently wonderful, making it a reliable spot for a good meal. If you're looking for a perfect date night spot, Dell'anima is definitely worth considering.
11. Bar Primi
Bar Primi is a hip Italian joint that serves pasta and wine. The restaurant is known for its creative pasta dishes and large portions.
The rigatoni carbonara, in particular, is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious carbonara. The restaurant also offers a well-considered and varied wine list, as well as expertly made cocktails.
The atmosphere is buzzy and trendy, making it a great spot for a Saturday brunch or lunch.
The staff is attentive and professional, making sure that every guest is treated like royalty. All in all, Bar Primi is a fantastic place for anyone looking for a great Italian meal.
12. Zia Maria Little Italy
Zia Maria Little Italy is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves authentic and mouth-watering pasta dishes.
Their Carbonara pasta is a must-try, made with perfectly cooked spaghetti, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon bits. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Italian classics, including pizza and housemade pasta.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with friendly and attentive staff who provide excellent service. Customers can also enjoy a selection of cocktails and wines to complement their meals.
For a memorable and satisfying Italian dining experience, Zia Maria Little Italy is definitely worth a visit.
13. Petrarca Cucina e Vino
Petrarca Cucina e Vino is a modern Italian restaurant with a creative menu featuring pizza, pasta, and more.
The carbonara is a standout dish, with a creamy and bacony flavor that hits the spot. The service is top-notch, with knowledgeable and attentive staff.
The outdoor seating is comfortable, making it a great spot for a date night or a meal with friends. The prices are on the higher side, but the high-quality food and service make it worth it.
If you're looking for a delicious carbonara in a cozy atmosphere, Petrarca Cucina e Vino is a great choice.
14. Gigino Trattoria
Gigino Trattoria is a Tuscan-inspired Italian restaurant that serves delectable carbonara.
The ambiance is rustic and cozy, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner. The menu is extensive, with daily chef specials and recommendations.
The servers are attentive and knowledgeable about the dishes. The prices are reasonable for the Tribeca area.
The food is well-prepared and flavorful, making it a must-visit for Italian food lovers.
