New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an incredible array of dining experiences. For lovers of cured meats, specifically the delicate, salty, and subtly sweet delight that is prosciutto, the city offers a treasure trove of options. This guide highlights 15 of the best places to savor this Italian delicacy in NYC, catering to various tastes and budgets. We'll explore where to find the best prosciutto from classic Italian delis to upscale restaurants.
Discovering the Delights of Prosciutto in NYC
Prosciutto, meaning "ham" in Italian, is a dry-cured ham renowned for its exquisite flavor. The quality varies dramatically based on the pig breed, curing process, and aging. In NYC, you'll find prosciutto from various regions of Italy, each with its unique characteristics. Some are intensely salty, others are sweeter and more delicate. Understanding these nuances is key to enjoying the best prosciutto in NYC.
Top 15 Spots for Prosciutto in NYC: A Diverse Selection
This list showcases diverse establishments, from traditional Italian markets to modern restaurants, each offering a unique prosciutto experience. The selection criteria included quality of prosciutto, overall dining experience, and value for money.
Upscale Dining:
-
Carbone (Greenwich Village): Carbone is known for its classic Italian-American fare, and their prosciutto is a highlight. Expect top-quality, expertly sliced prosciutto served in a luxurious setting. Pro-Tip: Try their Prosciutto e Melone.
-
Lilia (Williamsburg): Lilia's pasta dishes often feature high-quality prosciutto, seamlessly integrated into their innovative menu. The atmosphere is lively and the food is consistently excellent.
-
Via Carota (West Village): This charming West Village restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious Italian food, including their simple yet elegant prosciutto preparations.
-
Gramercy Tavern (Gramercy Park): A New York City institution, Gramercy Tavern uses high-quality ingredients in its seasonal menus, and their prosciutto selections are no exception.
Mid-Range Options:
-
Joe's Shanghai (Multiple Locations): While known for soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai also offers excellent charcuterie boards, frequently featuring delicious prosciutto.
-
Rubirosa (Nolita): This beloved Nolita pizzeria serves up excellent pizza and a concise but high-quality antipasto menu.
-
Bar Pitti (Greenwich Village): This lively Italian restaurant offers a great atmosphere and a range of classic Italian dishes, often including prosciutto as a component.
-
Rosemary's (West Village): Rosemary's is a popular West Village spot serving delicious Italian-inspired dishes and featuring carefully selected prosciutto.
Casual & Deli Experiences:
-
Di Palo's Fine Foods (Little Italy): A legendary Little Italy institution, Di Palo's offers a vast selection of Italian cured meats, including a variety of excellent prosciuttos. You can buy by the pound or enjoy it at their small deli counter.
-
Murray's Cheese (Greenwich Village & Multiple Locations): While known primarily for their cheese selection, Murray's also carries high-quality prosciutto from Italy.
-
Salumeria Biellese (East Village): This East Village gem is a great place to explore different types of Italian cured meats, including various styles of prosciutto.
-
Eataly Downtown (Financial District): Eataly offers a wide array of Italian products, including a dedicated section for cured meats where you'll find various prosciuttos.
Unique Experiences:
-
Emilio's Ballato (Little Italy): Emilio's Ballato is an iconic Little Italy restaurant famous for its ambiance and traditional Italian dishes, with prosciutto often featured.
-
The Smith (Multiple Locations): The Smith, with several locations across the city, offers a reliably good selection of charcuterie boards featuring prosciutto.
-
Casa Lever (Midtown): Casa Lever, a sophisticated Midtown restaurant, offers a high-end experience with exquisitely prepared dishes that sometimes feature prosciutto.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Prosciutto
Several factors influence the taste and quality of prosciutto:
- Origin: Prosciutto di Parma and Prosciutto di San Daniele are two of the most renowned varieties, each with a distinct flavor profile.
- Aging: Longer aging generally results in a more intense, complex flavor.
- Fat Content: The marbling of fat affects the texture and flavor, contributing to richness and tenderness.
- Slicing: Proper slicing is crucial to ensure the prosciutto's texture and flavor are optimally experienced.
Beyond the Slice: Prosciutto in NYC Dishes
Prosciutto's versatility shines in various NYC dishes:
- Prosciutto e Melone: A classic pairing of salty prosciutto with sweet cantaloupe.
- Pizza with Prosciutto: A topping choice elevating pizza to a new level.
- Pasta Dishes: Prosciutto adds depth of flavor to numerous pasta sauces.
- Charcuterie Boards: A staple appetizer showcasing prosciutto alongside other cured meats and cheeses.
This comprehensive guide showcases the diverse range of options available for experiencing the best prosciutto in NYC. From classic delis to upscale restaurants, there's a perfect spot for every prosciutto enthusiast. Remember to explore, experiment, and savor the delicate flavors this Italian delicacy offers.
