12 New York Italian Places Where Friday Night Tables Are Almost Impossible
For me, there’s no better way to kick off a New York weekend than with a truly exceptional Italian meal. That first bite of perfect pasta, the warmth of good company, the buzz of a crowded dining room – it’s pure magic.
But finding an open table on a Friday night at one of the city’s most beloved Italian spots? That’s where the dream often meets a harsh reality. My own attempts to snag a last-minute reservation have left me scrolling endlessly, occasionally rewarded by a lucky cancellation, but more often, just hungry.
It’s a testament to how incredible these places truly are.
1. Carbone
Greenwich Village’s Carbone transports diners straight into a 1950s Italian-American supper club with red leather booths and tuxedoed waiters. The spicy rigatoni vodka and veal parmesan have become legendary, drawing celebrities and food lovers alike.
Reservations open exactly 30 days in advance at noon, and they disappear within minutes. Walk-ins can try their luck at the bar, but expect a long wait.
The theatrical tableside service makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Prices run high, but the experience justifies the splurge for most guests.
2. Via Carota
This cozy West Village gem refuses to take reservations, making every visit a gamble worth taking. Chef duo Jody Williams and Rita Sodi create rustic Italian dishes that taste like they came from a Tuscan grandmother’s kitchen.
Arrive early, add your name to the list, then grab a drink at a nearby bar while you wait. The intimate space fills quickly, especially on weekends when wait times can stretch past two hours.
Their cacio e pepe and roasted carrots have achieved cult status among New York foodies.
3. L’Artusi
Sleek and modern, L’Artusi brings contemporary Italian cooking to the West Village with an ever-changing menu. The open kitchen lets diners watch chefs work their magic on seasonal ingredients.
Weekend reservations fill up fast, though the restaurant saves some bar seats for walk-ins. Their olive oil cake has won countless awards and appears on almost every table.
I once waited 90 minutes for a bar seat, but that first bite of burrata made every second worthwhile. The drink list features incredible Italian bottles you won’t find elsewhere.
4. Lilia
Brooklyn’s Lilia revolutionized Williamsburg dining when it opened, and the hype hasn’t died down one bit. Chef Missy Robbins hand-rolls pasta daily, creating dishes that photograph beautifully and taste even better.
The sheep’s milk ricotta and mafaldini with pink peppercorns are must-orders that sell out regularly. Reservations require planning at least a month ahead for prime dining times.
The bright, airy space feels both industrial and welcoming with its open layout. Solo diners have better luck snagging counter seats without advance booking.
5. Rubirosa
Nolita’s Rubirosa serves thin-crust pizza that strikes the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. The tie-dye vodka pizza has become their signature dish, covered in swirls of red sauce and creamy vodka sauce.
Family-friendly and casual, this spot welcomes everyone from tourists to neighborhood regulars. Reservations help, but walk-ins can usually find space at the bar during off-peak hours.
My nephew declared their pepperoni pizza the best he’d ever tasted, high praise from a picky eight-year-old. Prices remain reasonable compared to other trendy Italian spots in Manhattan.
6. Rao’s
East Harlem’s Rao’s might be the most exclusive restaurant in America, with just ten tables that belong to regular customers. Getting a reservation requires knowing someone who already has one, creating an almost mythical status.
The Southern Italian recipes have remained unchanged since 1896, passed down through generations. Their jarred marinara sauce, sold in stores nationwide, gives everyone a taste of the legend.
Frank Sinatra and other celebrities made this their home away from home decades ago. Unless you have serious connections, experiencing Rao’s remains a distant dream for most diners.
7. Don Angie
West Village newcomer Don Angie reimagines Italian-American classics with creative twists that surprise and delight. The chrysanthemum salad and lasagna for two have become Instagram sensations, though the food tastes better than it photographs.
Reservations open 30 days out and vanish almost instantly for weekend slots. The pinwheel lasagna alone justifies the booking effort, with its layers of pasta, meat, and cheese rolled into spirals.
Small plates encourage sharing, making this perfect for groups who want to try everything. The intimate space creates a lively, energetic vibe that feels like a neighborhood secret.
8. Babbo
Mario Batali’s former flagship still draws crowds to its Greenwich Village townhouse location despite ownership changes. The mint love letters pasta remains a menu staple that diners request year after year.
Two floors of dining rooms create different atmospheres, from romantic upstairs nooks to livelier ground-floor energy. Reservations book solid weeks ahead, especially for the chef’s tasting menu.
People appreciate the extensive Italian bottle selection curated by expert sommeliers. Prices reflect the upscale nature, but portions prove generous enough to justify the cost for special occasions.
9. Marea
Central Park South’s Marea brings high-end coastal Italian cuisine to Manhattan’s most expensive real estate. The fusilli with octopus and bone marrow has won James Beard Awards and converts seafood skeptics.
Business dinners and special celebrations fill the elegant dining room nightly. Reservations require advance planning, though the bar area sometimes accommodates walk-ins willing to dine early or late.
My parents celebrated their anniversary here last year, and they still talk about the crudo selections. The sophisticated atmosphere makes casual attire feel out of place, so dress accordingly for your visit.
10. Lupa Osteria Romana
Greenwich Village’s Lupa offers Roman trattorias cooking at prices that won’t completely empty your wallet. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from first dates to family gatherings.
Reservations help but aren’t always essential, especially for early weeknight dinners. Their spaghetti carbonara follows traditional recipes without cream, just eggs, cheese, guanciale, and black pepper.
The affordable drink list encourages experimentation with lesser-known Italian regions and grape varieties. Counter seats provide great views of the kitchen action when tables aren’t available, creating an interactive dining experience.
11. Il Buco
Noho’s Il Buco started as an antique shop that served food, and that history shows in every corner. Mismatched vintage furniture and candlelight create an atmosphere that feels transported from rural Italy.
Mediterranean ingredients shine in simple preparations that let quality speak for itself. Weekend reservations disappear quickly, though weeknight availability offers better options for spontaneous diners.
The cellar holds treasures from small Italian producers you’ve probably never heard of before. Romantic couples love the intimate setting, making this a popular choice for anniversaries and proposals throughout the year.
12. Emilio’s Ballato
Tucked away in the heart of NoLita, Emilio’s Ballato is a beloved spot that transports its patrons straight to Italy. Renowned for its delectable spaghetti pomodoro, this eatery exudes charm and intimacy.
Frequented by celebrities, the restaurant’s allure lies in its unpretentious ambiance and exquisite culinary offerings. The walls, adorned with photos of famous visitors, whisper tales of NYC nightlife.
Did you know? Emilio’s Ballato has been serving authentic Italian dishes since the 1950s, making it a staple in the city’s dining scene. Securing a table here is a testament to one’s dining prowess.