ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Italian in Upper East Side
Master Critic Review
L’Incontro by Rocco
8.4
A welcoming Upper East Side Italian trattoria known for classic pastas and cozy service, with strong reviews reflecting steady quality and neighborhood affection. The casual setting and reasonable pricing make it approachable for family dinners. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
Homemade Pasta Specials, Classic Meatballs, Seasonal Risotto
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Consistent Italian favorites in a neighborhood atmosphere
Who should go: Families craving classic Italian fare
When to visit: Casual dinner any night
What to order: Pasta specials, Meatballs, Seasonal Risotto
Insider tip: Weekday earlier dinners are quieter
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult after 6pm; no valet service
Dress code: Casual to smart casual, jeans are acceptable but lean towards dressier attire for a nice evening
Noise level: Moderate - can have conversations without difficulty, but can get busier during peak hours
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially on busy weekends
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially if you arrive before 12:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - a variety of vegetarian-friendly pasta and main dishes
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegan-friendly options available, though the menu is more tailored to vegetarians
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free pasta available, though not a separate prep area
Best For
Better for: L'Incontro is great for a quiet, family-friendly dinner with classic Italian comfort food, especially if you're craving traditional pasta dishes in a neighborhood spot.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more modern or upscale dining experience, you may prefer a more trendy spot in the area.