Best Italian Restaurants in Queens New York

Queens, New York, is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity with a vibrant array of dining options. Among these, Italian cuisine stands out as a beloved staple, offering everything from classic red-sauce joints to innovative trattorias. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a visitor exploring the borough, Queens is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, NY, serving up authentic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty entrees that capture the essence of Italy.

we’ll dive into the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York, highlighting top spots across neighborhoods like Astoria, Corona, Flushing, and Bayside. From family-run classics to modern gems, this list will help you find the perfect Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for any occasion, whether you’re craving a romantic dinner, a casual pizza night, or a special celebration.
Queens’ Italian heritage runs deep, rooted in the waves of Italian immigrants who settled in the borough in the early 20th century, particularly in areas like Corona and Astoria.

These communities brought with them recipes for homemade pasta, rich sauces, and traditional desserts that have been passed down through generations. Today, the borough’s Italian restaurants blend old-world charm with contemporary flair, using fresh, local ingredients to elevate classic dishes. Whether you’re searching for the best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY or simply want to explore the borough’s rich culinary landscape, this guide has you covered. Let’s explore the top picks that make Queens a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers.

A Brief History of Italian Cuisine in Queens

Italian immigration to Queens peaked between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with families from regions like Sicily, Naples, and Calabria establishing tight-knit communities. Neighborhoods like Corona became hubs for Italian-American culture, with pizzerias and trattorias serving as community gathering spots. Iconic establishments like Park Side Restaurant in Corona, which has been a staple for over 40 years, reflect this legacy with their hearty portions and traditional recipes. Over time, Queens’ Italian scene has evolved, incorporating modern techniques and diverse influences while preserving the soul of Italian hospitality. From Astoria’s bustling trattorias to Flushing’s hidden gems, the borough offers a range of dining experiences that cater to every taste.

Recent buzz on platforms like Yelp and OpenTable highlights the enduring popularity of Queens’ Italian restaurants, with spots like Il Poeta and Trattoria 35 earning accolades for their authenticity and quality. Whether you’re after a classic chicken parmigiana or a refined octopus special, Queens’ Italian restaurants deliver. Let’s dive into our curated list of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York, with details on what to order, ambiance, and why each spot stands out.

Top Italian Restaurants in Queens, New York

Below is a carefully selected list of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, NY, based on diner reviews, menu offerings, and local reputation. Each entry includes signature dishes, price points, and what makes the restaurant a standout, with a focus on the keywords best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY and best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York.

1. Park Side Restaurant (Corona)

Nestled in the heart of Corona, Park Side Restaurant is widely regarded as the best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY, with over 40 years of serving authentic Italian-American cuisine. This family-owned landmark is known for its generous portions, upscale atmosphere, and dishes like rigatoni with pancetta and creamy mascarpone pasta. The white-tablecloth setting and valet parking add a touch of glamour, making it a favorite for celebrities and locals alike. Reviews praise the lamb chops and tiramisu, with diners noting the vibrant New York vibe.

What to Order: Pistachio-crusted lamb chops ($60) or baked clams oreganata.
Average Check: $50-80 per person.
Why Visit: A quintessential best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for its consistent quality, large portions, and festive atmosphere. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

2. Il Poeta (Forest Hills)

Il Poeta is a Northern Italian gem in Forest Hills, recognized by the Italian government with the “Ospitalità Italiana nel Mondo” award for its authenticity. Chef Mario Di Chiara, with experience from Venice and Cipriani’s, crafts dishes like octopus specials and fresh fish that earn rave reviews. The diverse wine list and reasonable prices make it a go-to for romantic dinners or intimate gatherings.

What to Order: Octopus special (when available) or linguine with clams.
Average Check: $40-70.
Why Visit: A top best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its authentic Northern Italian flavors and elegant yet welcoming vibe.

3. Trattoria 35 (Bayside)

Trattoria 35 in Bayside transports diners to Italy with its old-world charm and contemporary flair. Known for its brick-oven pizzas and Northern Italian classics, this restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with valet parking. Diners love the flavorful pastas and attentive service, making it a standout in Queens’ dining scene.

What to Order: Pesto pasta or margherita pizza.
Average Check: $35-60.
Why Visit: A beloved best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for its traditional dishes and cozy ambiance, ideal for date nights or group outings.

4. Piccolo Sogno (Flushing)

Piccolo Sogno in Flushing is a family-run gem that lives up to its name, meaning “little dream” in Italian. Since opening in 2009, it has become a staple for its authentic dishes like calamari, penne vodka, and freshly baked pizzas. The restaurant’s commitment to treating guests like family and using high-quality ingredients has earned it the 2025 Best of the Boro award for Italian cuisine.

What to Order: Rigatoni with burrata or wood-fired pizza.
Average Check: $30-50.
Why Visit: A top best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its warm hospitality and classic flavors, perfect for casual dining.

5. Il Toscano (Douglaston)

Il Toscano in Douglaston is a fine-dining destination known for its heated cedar gazebos and curbside pickup options. The menu features upscale dishes like Chilean sea bass and homemade pastas, paired with an extensive wine cellar. Reviewers praise the elegant setting and exceptional service, making it ideal for special occasions.

What to Order: Seafood risotto or veal scallopini.
Average Check: $60-90.
Why Visit: A standout best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for its refined cuisine and romantic ambiance.

6. Vite Vinosteria (Astoria)

Vite Vinosteria in Astoria is a neighborhood favorite, offering a cozy setting and dishes like linguine with clams and cavatappi. The Nutella tart and $1.50 iced coffee are unexpected delights, while the wine list impresses. Diners love the fresh, flavorful pastas that avoid heavy seasoning.

What to Order: Lasagna or Baby Jesus cake.
Average Check: $35-55.
Why Visit: A top best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its authentic, unpretentious dishes and welcoming vibe.

7. Manetta’s Ristorante (Long Island City)

For over 30 years, Manetta’s Ristorante in Long Island City has been a family-owned staple, serving comforting dishes like squid ink pasta and chicken parmigiana. The wood-fired pizzas and generous portions make it a go-to for locals seeking a homey dining experience.

What to Order: Grilled squid or brick-oven pizza.
Average Check: $30-50.
Why Visit: A reliable best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York’s Long Island City for its traditional flavors and family-friendly atmosphere.

8. Don Peppe (Ozone Park)

Don Peppe near Jamaica Bay is a classic red-sauce joint known for its hearty Italian-American dishes. The menu features scungilli, clams, and shrimp over linguine, with a no-frills setting that emphasizes the food. It’s a favorite for its authentic, old-school vibe.

What to Order: Linguine with seafood fra diavolo.
Average Check: $40-65.
Why Visit: A top best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its classic Italian-American cuisine and generous portions.

9. Vetro Restaurant & Lounge (Howard Beach)

Vetro Restaurant & Lounge offers a modern take on Italian cuisine with a stunning waterfront view of Jamaica Bay. The expansive wine cellar and cocktail lounge elevate the experience, with dishes like creamy pastas and fresh seafood earning high praise. The rooftop dining option is a draw for special events.

What to Order: Lobster ravioli or tiramisu.
Average Check: $60-100.
Why Visit: A premier best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for its scenic views and upscale dining.

10. Radici (Forest Hills)

Radici is a neighborhood gem in Forest Hills, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Diners rave about the gnocchi with pomodoro sauce and the attentive staff, making it a top pick for families and couples. The restaurant’s focus on fresh ingredients shines through in every dish.

What to Order: Potato gnocchi or burrata appetizer.
Average Check: $35-55.
Why Visit: A standout best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its flavorful dishes and welcoming vibe.

11. SoleLuna Restaurant (Sunnyside)

SoleLuna Restaurant in Sunnyside is a newer addition, offering wood-fired pizzas and creamy carbonara in a casual setting. Run by the same team as Sotto Le Stelle, it’s praised for its savory-sweet pizza toppings and friendly service. The ambiance is laid-back yet inviting.

What to Order: Buffalo mozzarella pizza or carbonara.
Average Check: $25-45.
Why Visit: A great best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for affordable, high-quality meals in a relaxed setting.

12. Valdari Ristorante (Bayside)

Valdari R appreciates the diverse neighborhoods of Queens, offering a range of dining experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in Astoria, Flushing, or Bayside, there’s an Italian restaurant ready to impress with its flavors and hospitality. Below, we continue our exploration of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York, ensuring you have plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

13. Leo’s Latticini/Mama’s (Corona)

Leo’s Latticini, affectionately known as Mama’s, is a legendary Italian deli and restaurant in Corona, famous for its sandwiches and homemade mozzarella. While primarily a deli, it serves classic Italian dishes like meatballs and eggplant parmigiana in a casual setting. It’s a must-visit for a taste of Queens’ Italian heritage.

What to Order: Meatball hero or lasagna.
Average Check: $20-40.
Why Visit: A unique best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its deli-style charm and authentic flavors.

14. Il Nonno (Astoria)

Il Nonno in Astoria is a rising star, offering potential to become one of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York with its cozy ambiance and traditional dishes. The menu features classics like chicken parmigiana and homemade pastas, with reviewers praising the attentive service.

What to Order: Veal scallopini or tiramisu.
Average Check: $30-50.
Why Visit: A promising best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for its authentic Astoria vibe.

15. Barosa (Rego Park)

Barosa in Rego Park is a premier Italian restaurant known for its upscale dining and brick-oven pizzas. The executive chef’s focus on presentation and flavor shines through in dishes like shrimp risotto and marinated lamb chops. The elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions.

What to Order: Wood-fired pizza or seafood linguine.
Average Check: $40-65.
Why Visit: A top best Italian restaurant in Queens, New York for its refined cuisine and warm hospitality.

The Best Pizza in Queens, NY

Pizza is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine, and Queens is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, NY for pizza lovers. Here are top picks for wood-fired and classic pies:

Patsy’s Pizzeria (Flushing): A historic spot since 1933, known for its family-style brick-oven pizzas.
Valdari Ristorante (Bayside): Offers exceptional brick-oven pizzas with fresh, imported ingredients.
SoleLuna Restaurant (Sunnyside): Wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings.
Dee’s Wood Fired Pizza & Kitchen (Forest Hills): Spectacular crispy-crust pizzas in a cozy setting.
Luigi’s Restaurant & Bar (Astoria): Thin-crust pizzas with a neighborhood vibe.

X users frequently highlight Patsy’s and Valdari for their authentic crusts and fresh toppings, making them go-to spots for the best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for pizza.

Tips for Dining at Queens’ Italian Restaurants

To make the most of your experience at the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York:

Reservations: Book ahead for popular spots like Park Side or Il Toscano, especially on weekends, using OpenTable.
What to Order: Focus on house specials like handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, or seafood dishes for authentic flavors.
Wine Pairings: Opt for Italian wines at Vite Vinosteria or Vetro to complement your meal.
Dietary Options: Many restaurants, like Trattoria 35, offer gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Best Times: Weekdays are less crowded; avoid peak weekend hours for a quieter experience.
Explore Nearby: Pair your meal with a visit to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park or Gantry Plaza State Park.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

Some diners assume Queens’ Italian restaurants are limited to old-school red-sauce joints, but the borough offers a diverse range of experiences, from fine dining at Vetro to casual delis like Leo’s Latticini. A Reddit thread criticized overhyped local spots, suggesting some rely on nostalgia rather than quality. However, our list prioritizes restaurants with consistent reviews and authentic offerings, ensuring you find the best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for your needs.

Queens, New York, is a treasure trove of Italian cuisine, offering everything from the iconic Park Side Restaurant in Corona to the elegant Il Toscano in Douglaston. Whether you’re seeking the best Italian restaurant in Queens, NY for a romantic date night, a family gathering, or a quick pizza, the borough’s diverse neighborhoods deliver. With a rich history of Italian immigration and a commitment to quality ingredients, Queens’ restaurants blend tradition with innovation, making them some of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, New York. From Astoria’s cozy trattorias to Bayside’s upscale bistros, there’s a perfect spot for every craving.

Plan your next Italian dining adventure in Queens and experience the borough’s culinary magic. Buon appetito!