ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Long Island City
Best Family Friendly Italian in Long Island City
Master Critic Review
mercato LIC Pasta Pizza Vino
7.5
A newer neighborhood option built around homemade pastas, thin-crust pizzas, and a wine-and-cocktails program that fits a casual night out. It’s a solid pick when you want Italian comfort with a modern, relaxed feel rather than a formal dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Homemade pasta, Thin-crust pizza, Espresso martini
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.1
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: Homemade pasta and pizza with a wine-forward, casual sit-down vibe.
Who should go: Friends meeting for pasta, pizza, and drinks
When to visit: Weekend lunch or early dinner
What to order: Homemade pasta, thin-crust pizza, espresso martini
Insider tip: Order one pasta and one pizza to share for a better spread.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hunters Point is limited; plan on metered street spots or nearby garages if arriving after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and sneakers are common, but groups often lean a little dressier at night.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but still workable for conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta and pizza options work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of pastas or pizzas can be modified, but not a vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some gluten-free substitutions may be available, but cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed and lively enough to feel fun without the pressure of a formal Italian dining room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially earlier in the evening or on weekdays, but weekend nights can mean a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like pizza and pasta, though the vibe skews more adult at dinner.
Best For
Better for: Casual group dinners, girls’ nights, and pasta-and-cocktails meetups in a modern setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for old-school Italian formality, ultra-quiet dining, or a destination-level pasta experience.