ZipPicks Awards
Best Date Night Italian in East Harlem
Master Critic Review
Girasole Trattoria
8.0
A newer East Harlem trattoria from the team behind nearby Café D’Anvers, Girasole blends handmade Italian pastas with Brazilian-leaning cocktails in a sunflower-accented room. It’s a flexible date-night move when you want a proper sit-down dinner that still feels fun, with Aperol spritz deals and wine-plus-oysters specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggplant Parmesan, Pesto Fettuccine, Arancini
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 6.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: New-school trattoria with handmade pasta, Brazilian cocktails, and playful, sunflower-filled decor.
Who should go: Couples who like cocktails with their pasta and a buzzy room.
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm when the bar and dining room fill in.
What to order: Eggplant Parmesan, pesto fettuccine, arancini to share.
Insider tip: Pre-game or extend the night next door at sister spot Bar Goyana for Brazilian-leaning drinks before or after dinner.