ZipPicks Awards
Best Date Night Italian in Upper West Side
Best Seafood in Upper West Side
Best Italian in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Osteria 106
8.1
A neighborhood osteria that plays best as a pasta-and-one-protein dinner—warm service, straightforward Italian comfort, and a menu that stays focused. Go for a paced meal rather than grazing: one starter, one pasta, one main, done.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Lasagna, Chicken parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A focused osteria rhythm that keeps ordering easy and satisfying.
Who should go: Couples and families who want reliable Italian comfort
When to visit: Weeknights for calmer pacing and easier tables
What to order: Cacio e pepe, lasagna, chicken parmigiana
Insider tip: Split one pasta and one main—add a simple starter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the evening; paid garages are available within a few blocks if you want to avoid circling.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but a polished top or jacket fits the room better than overly casual wear.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively but controlled—easy to hold a conversation without leaning in.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a very short one
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pasta and starter options work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of vegetable-forward dishes can be adapted, but it’s not a vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited – gluten-free pasta is usually available; confirm preparation details with the server.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, no-drama Italian comfort with clear ordering decisions—great for groups or mixed tastes where everyone wants something familiar and well-executed.
Skip if: You’re looking for a buzzy scene, experimental Italian, or a quick slice-and-go meal—this is a sit-down, paced dinner spot.