ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Hell's Kitchen-Midtown West
Best Date Night Italian in Hell's Kitchen-Midtown West
Master Critic Review
La Masseria NYC
8.7
Puglian farmhouse-inspired dining from Chef Pino Coladonato featuring authentic Southern Italian cuisine with house-made mozzarella and grandmother's recipes. The rustic stone walls and antique farm tools create a warm escape from Times Square with over 7,000 reviews validating consistent excellence.
Must-Try Dishes:
Scialatielli with Wild Mushrooms, Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe, Ricotta Cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Authentic Puglian farmhouse atmosphere with owner-operators present daily
Who should go: Theater-goers seeking refined Italian, business dinners
When to visit: Pre-theater or leisurely weekend dinner
What to order: Fresh burrata, grandmother's sauce pasta, limoncello
Insider tip: Try the lentil spread with bread basket—a complimentary highlight
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - challenging in Times Square area. Consider nearby parking garages or take transit (Times Square-42nd St station nearby)
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy casual. No shorts, sandals, or t-shirts. Slacks and collared shirts work well. Most guests dress nicely for theater.
Noise level: Lively and bustling - convivial theater-district energy. Can get loud during peak hours. Request a quieter corner table or outdoor seating if you prefer calm.
Weekend wait: Reservations essential. Walk-ins face significant waits, especially pre-theater (5-7pm slots book weeks ahead)
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait. Much calmer than dinner service, good for relaxed meals
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong options including eggplant dishes, gnocchi, multiple pasta preparations, salads, and vegetable sides. Daily specials often plant-forward.
Vegan options: Limited - a few options available. Call ahead to discuss accommodations; staff noted for flexibility with requests.
Gluten-free options: Check website for updated information
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. The rustic farmhouse ambiance, candlelit tables, and intimate mezzanine seating create romance without being stuffy. Request an upstairs table or outdoor seat for extra privacy. The 250-bottle Italian wine list helps set the mood.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky. Peak pre-theater hours (5-7pm) are nearly impossible without booking. Try walking in after 8:30pm post-curtain or at weekday lunch. Call ahead - they sometimes accommodate via cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - families dine here regularly. Staff accommodate children with half-portions and flexible orders. The shareable pasta format works well for kids. Not a dedicated kids menu, but plenty of approachable Italian dishes. Best for older children who can handle a refined setting.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Puglian cooking with owner-operators present daily, romantic farmhouse atmosphere that transcends typical Theater District tourist traps, pre-theater timing expertise, and a serious 250-bottle Italian wine program.
Skip if: You need a quick, cheap bite (prices run $$$), have severe gluten intolerance requiring dedicated prep, want modern/trendy Italian, or hate lively dining rooms. For quieter upscale Italian, try Masseria East on the Upper East Side.