Our Favorite Old School Italian Restaurants
Melinda Kauffman / April 30, 2018
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NYC is full of great Italian restaurants, but dining at a truly old-school, red sauce Italian joint is a totally different experience. From the characters that create a nostalgic ambiance and the mounting plates of spaghetti and parmesan cheese, there are few things in life we find quite as comforting. So if you’re digging the red sauce, keep reading for our favorite old school Italian spots in New York.
Rao’s
PC: @thisgirlcaneatQuite possibly NYC’s most exclusive restaurant, Rao’s has been serving up some of this city’s greatest Italian food since 1896. If you’re able to score an “in” to dine here, you’ll be in for a meal to remember. When you do make it in, make sure you start with their melt-in-your-mouth meatballs that can easily feed four and go all out with the pasta combos.
Emilio’s Ballato
PC: @gennaro.pecchiaRumor has it that Emilio himself is often spotted at this longtime Italian favorite along with other celebrities including Obama, Rihanna and us, of course :). Our favorites here include the crispy calamari and the classic Caesar salad dressed with parmesan cheese and croutons. For entrees, try the Gamberi Fra Diavolo with sautéed shrimp covered in marinara sauce and paired with linguine.
Michael’s of Brooklyn
PC: @michaelsofbrooklynSince 1946, Michael’s of Brooklyn has offered traditional cuisine in an elegant space. We love their homemade sauce and since you will too, grab a jar to take home with you on the way out. Whatever you go with, be sure to have an order of Chicken alla Michael’s on your table.
Bamonte’s
PC: Tasting TableAt Bamonte’s, you’ll find the waiters dressed in tuxedos, just as they did upon opening back in 1902. This neighborhood spot is most famous for their Pork Chops with Vinegar Pepper – complete with sautéed green beans and potatoes and a great price point to match. Their baked clams are also our favorite of all time.
L&B Spumoni Gardens
L&B Spumoni Gardens is home to our favorite square slice of pizza. We’re not quite sure what their secret is, but we love that the cheese goes on first! If you want the full experience, dine-in and try their savory pastas and sandwiches or order from the pizza counter and grab a table outside. Don’t skip dessert, you’ll want at least an order of Spumoni ice cream at your table.
Sam’s Place
PC: Greenwich Village DailySam’s Place not only serves incredible dinner, but they also do breakfast and lunch. Some of our favorites at this no-frills spot include the Cheese Ravioli, the Prosciutto and Cheese Stuffed Chicken and the Caesar Salad for two.
Monte’s Trattoria
PC: Wine4FoodLocated in the heart of Greenwich Village, Monte’s Trattoria is home to some truly authentic and delicious Italian food. The Spinach Angel Hair pasta is served in cream sauce with fresh peas and prosciutto and the Fettuccine Funghi comes in a light sauce with mushrooms. The Baked Artichoke appetizer is also a must try – served with white wine, shallots, capers, and lemon and lightly breaded and cooked to perfection.
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