New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an impressive array of Sicilian restaurants. From casual trattorias to upscale establishments, these restaurants offer a taste of the sun-drenched island, bringing the authentic flavors and traditions of Sicily to the heart of the Big Apple. This guide explores 24 of the best, showcasing their unique offerings and what makes them stand out.
Discovering the Best of Sicily in NYC: A Culinary Journey
Sicilian cuisine is more than just pasta and pizza; it's a reflection of the island's rich history and diverse influences. The food is characterized by its fresh, seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and simple yet elegant preparations. The best Sicilian restaurants in NYC capture this essence, providing a truly immersive dining experience. Finding the perfect Sicilian restaurant depends on your preferences – are you looking for a romantic dinner, a casual family meal, or a late-night snack? This guide will help you navigate the options and discover your new favorite spot. Many restaurants offer variations on classic Sicilian dishes, showcasing the adaptability and versatility of the cuisine.
Top Sicilian Restaurants: A Diverse Selection
This list categorizes the restaurants for easier navigation based on style and location. Remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and many other fantastic Sicilian restaurants exist throughout the city!
Romantic & Upscale Sicilian Dining
- Lilia (Williamsburg): Known for its exceptional pasta and refined ambiance, Lilia is a top choice for a special occasion.
- Via Carota (West Village): This charming West Village gem offers a rustic-chic atmosphere and a menu featuring seasonal Italian dishes with a strong Sicilian influence.
- Don Angie (West Village): Another West Village standout, Don Angie is famous for its exceptional pasta dishes and intimate setting, perfect for a romantic date night.
Casual & Family-Friendly Sicilian Trattorias
- Rubirosa (Nolita): This iconic Nolita pizzeria is a must-visit for its legendary Sicilian pizza.
- Lombardi's Pizza (Little Italy): A historic landmark, Lombardi's claims to be America's first pizzeria, serving up classic Sicilian slices.
- Grimaldi's Pizzeria (DUMBO): Located under the Brooklyn Bridge, Grimaldi's offers stunning views alongside its delicious coal-fired pizzas.
- Joe's Pizza (various locations): A New York institution, Joe's Pizza serves up classic, affordable Sicilian slices.
- Prince Street Pizza (Soho): Renowned for its square-shaped Sicilian slices, Prince Street Pizza is a popular choice amongst locals and tourists.
Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Favorites
- Alleva Dairy (Little Italy): This historic dairy offers delicious sandwiches and other Italian delicacies, many with Sicilian roots.
- DeStefano's Steak House (East Harlem): While primarily known for its steaks, DeStefano's offers some incredible Sicilian sides and appetizers.
- Carbone (Greenwich Village): A classic Italian-American restaurant with dishes inspired by traditional Sicilian recipes.
Modern Sicilian Interpretations
- Misi (East Village): Misi offers a refined take on classic Sicilian dishes, using modern techniques and high-quality ingredients.
- Osteria Morini (various locations): A stylish trattoria with a menu featuring regional Italian dishes, including several Sicilian specialties.
Authentic Sicilian Experiences
- Pasta by Hudson (Hudson Yards): This stylish restaurant emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, showcasing the best of modern Sicilian cuisine.
- Sotto 13 (Greenwich Village): This intimate restaurant provides a sophisticated and romantic setting with a focus on authentic Sicilian flavors.
Sicilian Bakeries & Pastry Shops
- Caffe Palermo (Little Italy): This classic bakery serves up traditional Sicilian pastries and cannoli.
- Veniero's Pastry Shop (East Village): A beloved institution, Veniero's offers a wide selection of Italian pastries, including many Sicilian specialties.
Beyond Pizza: Exploring Sicilian Specialties
Many restaurants offer a broader range of Sicilian dishes beyond pizza. Look for specialties like:
- Arancini: Fried rice balls filled with various ingredients.
- Pasta alla Norma: Pasta with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and ricotta salata cheese.
- Caponata: A sweet and sour eggplant relish.
- Cannoli: Fried pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese.
Finding Your Perfect Sicilian Restaurant
To find the perfect Sicilian restaurant for you, consider the following:
- Location: Choose a restaurant convenient to your location.
- Atmosphere: Decide if you prefer a romantic, casual, or upscale setting.
- Menu: Look for restaurants that offer the Sicilian dishes you crave.
- Reviews: Check online reviews to gauge the quality of food and service.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your culinary exploration of Sicilian cuisine in New York City. Remember to explore beyond this list – many other wonderful Sicilian restaurants are waiting to be discovered! Enjoy your gastronomic adventure!
