Best Italian Restaurants in Midtown South
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Ai Fiori
Michelin-recognized Riviera cuisine with Wine Spectator Grand Award wine program
Essential Picks
#1
Ai Fiori
9.1
Located within the Langham Hotel, this Michelin-recognized destination from Chef Michael White delivers refined French-Italian Riviera cuisine with impeccable execution. Handmade pastas and a Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning list of over 1,000 selections elevate the experience, while the elegant dining room with Fifth Avenue views sets the stage for special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sagne Pasta with Braised Rabbit, Hiramasa Crudo, Risotto ai Funghi
What Makes it Special: Michelin-recognized Riviera cuisine with Wine Spectator Grand Award wine program
Notable Picks
Ramerino brings a Tuscan-accented Italian steakhouse to Midtown East, pairing prime cuts and handmade pastas with a handsome, softly lit dining room. It’s used as much for business dinners near Bryant Park as for classic New York date nights built around branzino, pappardelle and a strong wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle with Wild Mushroom and Truffle, Cacio e Pepe Tonnarelli, Homemade Amaretto Tiramisu
What Makes it Special: Tuscan-driven Italian prime house with tableside touches near Bryant Park.
Carmelo 'Pisillo' Nazzaro brought his sandwich dreams from Italy to NYC in 2008, earning Food Network recognition and winning Robert De Niro's Tribeca Film Festival sandwich contest. Freshly baked bread from a 30-year Bensonhurst bakery and imported Italian cold cuts create what many call the city's best panini.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pisillo Panini, Capri Panini, Prosciutto di Parma
What Makes it Special: Food Network-featured paninis with bread from legendary Bensonhurst bakery