New York has more pasta than you could ever try in one lifetime. You’ll find it in old-school trattorias, cozy neighborhood gems, and sleek downtown kitchens. But not every bowl is worth your time. Some places just do it better — richer flavors, fresher pasta, and the kind of atmosphere that makes the whole meal memorable.
We put together this guide to highlight the pasta spots we think stand above the rest. Each one comes with tips on what to order, how to get there from Midtown, and little details to make your visit even better.
Roberto’s (Bronx)
Arthur Avenue is home to some of the best Italian food in the city, and Roberto’s is its star. The rigatoni alla Genovese with bone marrow is the kind of dish that feels both hearty and luxurious — slow-cooked onions, tender beef, and the richness of marrow tying it together.
Specials keep things interesting, from truffle-topped fettuccine to seafood radiatore. The dining room is noisy and full of energy, which only adds to the charm. This is New York Italian dining the way it’s meant to be: big portions, bold flavors, and a buzzing atmosphere.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the D train to Fordham Road and walk ten minutes. About 45 minutes total. A cab or Uber will cut that in half.
Tips:
- Reserve if you’re going on a weekend.
- Come hungry — plates are generous.
- Pair your pasta with a Chianti or Montepulciano.
- Explore Arthur Avenue’s bakeries and delis before or after dinner.
Celeste (Upper West Side)
Celeste feels like the kind of neighborhood spot everyone loves. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and always delivers. The lasagna is rich and layered, while the tagliatelle with shrimp and cabbage is lighter but just as flavorful.
The vibe is casual, the prices fair, and the food is the type that keeps regulars coming back.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the 1 train to 86th Street. It’s about 20 minutes.
Tips:
- Cash only, so bring bills.
- No reservations, so go early or expect a wait.
- Start with burrata — it’s a favorite here.
Roberta’s (Penn District)
Roberta’s may be famous for pizza, but the pasta here deserves equal attention. The squid-ink linguine with littleneck clams is dramatic to look at and even better to eat — briny, bold, and perfectly balanced.
The space has an industrial feel and a playful vibe, making it a great Midtown option if you want pasta that’s different from the usual classics.
How to get there from Midtown: It’s right near Penn Station — just a short walk.
Tips:
- A perfect pre-show or pre-game stop.
- Go off-peak for a quieter experience.
- Try the cocktails — they’re better than you’d expect.
Massara
For something a little more polished, Massara delivers. The candele with onion-beef ragu is slow-cooked and full of depth, while the bucatini with sea urchin and shrimp feels rich and indulgent.
The dining room has a refined feel without being stiff — it’s a place that works for date nights or when you want pasta to feel special.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the A, C, or E to Canal Street. Around 20 minutes.
Tips:
- Smart casual dress works best.
- Reservations recommended on weekends.
- Portions aren’t huge, so add an appetizer.
Via Carota (West Village)
Via Carota is one of the most talked-about spots downtown, and with good reason. The tonnarelli cacio e pepe is legendary — simple, creamy, peppery, and perfect. Seasonal dishes change with what’s fresh, so there’s always a reason to come back.
The setting feels rustic and inviting, with wooden tables and warm lighting. It’s lively, crowded, and exactly what we love about the West Village.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the 1 train to Christopher Street–Sheridan Square. Walk about 5 minutes.
Tips:
- Reservations are hard to get — arrive early if you’re walking in.
- Best enjoyed with friends — order several pastas and share.
- Service can be slow when packed, so don’t rush.
Fiaschetteria Pistoia (East Village)
This East Village gem feels like a slice of Tuscany. Pasta is rolled by hand right in the dining room, and the spaghetti con bottarga is a must-try — salty, rich, and satisfying.
It’s small, cozy, and lined with bottles of wine, the kind of place that feels intimate and authentic.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the 6 train to Astor Place and walk a few minutes. Around 15–20 minutes total.
Tips:
- Reserve if you can — space is tight.
- The wine list is all Italian and pairs beautifully.
- Stick with the pasta — it’s the star here.
Bar Primi (Bowery)
Bar Primi is lively, casual, and fun — the kind of spot where pasta feels approachable and exciting at the same time. Orecchiette with sausage and broccoli rabe is the standout, while the linguine with garlic and breadcrumbs shows how simple ingredients can shine.
The location makes it a great choice before heading out downtown.
How to get there from Midtown: Take the R or W to Prince Street and walk five minutes. About 20 minutes total.
Tips:
- Great for groups or casual nights.
- Bar seating works well for two people or solo dining.
- The ricotta toast is a perfect starter.
Pasta Guides
🍝 How to Order Pasta Like a Local
- Specials are often the best dishes — always ask.
- Downtown spots usually serve smaller plates; family-style trattorias go big.
- A glass of wine makes the meal — ask for a pairing.
🗺️ Where to Go by Neighborhood
- Bronx: Roberto’s for bold, hearty flavors.
- Upper West Side: Celeste for a reliable neighborhood spot.
- West Village: Via Carota for rustic Tuscan charm.
- East Village: Fiaschetteria Pistoia for handmade pasta.
- Bowery/Penn District: Roberta’s or Bar Primi for something casual.
💡 Tips for Pasta Lovers in NYC
- Reserve if you can — these places fill quickly.
- Going early or late means fewer crowds.
- Don’t skip starters like burrata or crostini.
- Try a mix: one rustic, one refined, one casual.
Final Thoughts
Pasta in New York is everywhere, but truly great pasta is harder to find. These restaurants capture what makes it special: respect for tradition, a willingness to play with flavor, and an atmosphere that makes the meal memorable.
Whether we’re heading uptown, downtown, or across the Bronx, these are the bowls of pasta we’d go out of our way for — and we think you should too.
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