Top restaurants list
10 Best Italian Restaurants in Queens
- 10 restaurants
- New York City, New York
- Updated January 1, 2026
The ten best Italian restaurants in Queens NYC are Park Side Restaurant, Il Gigante, Piccolo Sogno, Il Toscano Ristorante, Il Poeta, Vetro by Russo’s, Leo’s Latticini, Trattoria 35, SoleLuna, and Bruno. The borough’s Italian food identity is defined by its legendary neighborhood institutions, many of which have been operated by the same families for generations. The fine-dining scene is anchored by grand old-world establishments like Park Side Restaurant in Corona. At the same time, Queens is home to hyper-specific regional eateries such as Il Poeta, which focuses on the cuisine of Abruzzo, and historic delis like Leo’s Latticini that are landmarks in their own right.
Italian cuisine is a cornerstone of neighborhoods like Corona, Howard Beach, Douglaston, and Forest Hills. The top Italian restaurants in Queens are found in settings that range from formal, multi-room dining halls and luxurious waterfront venues to intimate, rustic trattorias on quiet neighborhood streets. These establishments offer a genuine sense of community, serving as gathering places for local families for decades. This deep connection between the restaurants and their neighborhoods is a defining characteristic of the borough's food culture.
Park Side Restaurant is a premier destination on the list of the best Italian restaurants in Queens, celebrated for its grand traditional atmosphere, impeccable service, and masterful execution of Italian-American classics. For a more casual but equally iconic meal, Leo’s Latticini in Corona is a historic deli famous for its fresh, house-made mozzarella and legendary sandwiches. The distinction for a modern, upscale experience goes to Vetro by Russo’s, which offers a sophisticated menu and panoramic water views from its Howard Beach location. Establishments such as Il Toscano and Trattoria 35 provide menu options for gluten-free diets.
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1
Piccolo Sogno, which translates to "little dream," is an intimate and romantic Italian restaurant located in Long Island City. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic atmosphere with exposed brick, dim lighting, and a small dining area. The menu focuses on classic Italian dishes with an emphasis on pasta.- Item Prices
- 281
- Average Item Price
- $21.15
Piccolo Sogno Menu PricesMore about Piccolo Sogno
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian
Signature Dishes:
Gnocchi al PestoTagliatelle al RagùTiramisu
Location:
195-14 47th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11358
Special Feature:
The restaurant's small size and romantic ambiance make it a sought-after spot for couples. Reservations are highly recommended due to the limited seating.
What Makes It Special:
Piccolo Sogno is celebrated for its authentic, homestyle Italian cooking and its charming, neighborhood feel, providing a quieter alternative to the larger, trendier spots in the area.
What Sets It Apart:
Its specific focus on creating an intimate and romantic dining setting, combined with its classic, well-executed menu, distinguishes it as a go-to destination for a special, quiet meal.
Operating Hours:
Wednesday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PMMonday – Tuesday: Closed
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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2
IL Toscano Ristorante is an award-winning Italian restaurant in New York. This fine dining establishment is known for a signature menu item Lobster Toscano which was featured on the show...- Item Prices
- 70
- Average Item Price
- $24.48
IL Toscano Ristorante Menu PricesMore about IL Toscano Ristorante
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Northern Italian, Tuscan
Signature Dishes:
Pappardelle alla FiesolanaVitello alla Fiorentina (Veal Chop)Costata di Manzo (Ribeye)
Location:
42-05 235th St, Douglaston, NY 11363
Special Feature:
The restaurant is located in a somewhat residential area of Queens, making it a destination restaurant rather than one with heavy foot traffic. It offers complimentary valet parking.
What Makes It Special:
Il Toscano is recognized for its consistent, high-quality Tuscan cuisine and its long-standing reputation as one of the premier fine-dining Italian restaurants in the borough.
What Sets It Apart:
Its specific focus on Tuscan regional cuisine, combined with its decades-long history of family ownership and formal service, gives it a level of classic authenticity that is distinct.
Operating Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMMonday: Closed
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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3
Il Poeta is a family-owned Italian restaurant in Forest Hills, New York known for authentic Northern Italian cuisine, classic dishes made from scratch, and a prestigious culinary pedigree. Bestsellers on...- Item Prices
- 54
- Average Item Price
- $18.68
Il Poeta Menu PricesMore about Il Poeta
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian, Abruzzese
Signature Dishes:
Chitarra alla TeramanaGnocchi ai Quattro FormaggiAgnello Scottadito (Grilled Lamb Chops)
Location:
98-04 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Special Feature:
The restaurant is known for its fresh, house-made pasta, particularly the "chitarra" style, which is made using a traditional stringed tool from Abruzzo.
What Makes It Special:
Il Poeta is celebrated for its authentic, homestyle cooking that provides a genuine taste of a specific Italian region, served in a warm and personal setting.
What Sets It Apart:
Its specific culinary focus on the Abruzzo region, highlighted by its signature chitarra pasta, distinguishes its menu from the more general Italian or Italian-American fare found elsewhere.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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4
Trattoria 35 is a modern Italian restaurant located in Bayside. The restaurant features a contemporary and elegant interior with a prominent bar and a sophisticated ambiance. The menu offers a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes.- Item Prices
- 446
- Average Item Price
- $51.67
Trattoria 35 Menu PricesMore about Trattoria 35
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Modern Italian
Signature Dishes:
Burrata CapresePappardelle with Veal RaguChicken Scarpariello
Location:
213-15 35th Ave, Bayside, NY 11361
Special Feature:
The restaurant has a lively bar scene and is known for its extensive wine list and craft cocktails. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
What Makes It Special:
Trattoria 35 is known for its energetic, upscale atmosphere, which makes it a popular social hub and a destination for a polished meal in the Bayside area.
What Sets It Apart:
Its combination of a trendy, modern design with a high-energy bar scene distinguishes it from the more traditional, old-world Italian restaurants in eastern Queens.
Operating Hours:
Daily: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
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5
Italian SeafoodSoleLuna is a cozy, rustic Italian restaurant in Sunnyside. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with wood-paneled walls and a focus on creating a neighborhood feel. The menu features Sicilian and Southern Italian specialties.- Item Prices
- 51
- Average Item Price
- $16.75
Soleluna Restaurant Menu PricesMore about Soleluna Restaurant
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Sicilian, Southern Italian
Signature Dishes:
Arancini (Rice Balls)Busiate Pesto e GamberiPanelle Special Sandwich
Location:
40-01 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside, NY 11104
Special Feature:
The restaurant is known for its authentic Sicilian street food, such as panelle (chickpea fritters), which is not commonly found on other Italian menus in the area.
What Makes It Special:
SoleLuna is celebrated for its authentic, homestyle Sicilian cooking, which provides a genuine taste of the region in a charming, unpretentious setting.
What Sets It Apart:
Its specific focus on Sicilian cuisine, particularly its offering of traditional street food, gives it a unique culinary identity that is distinct from other Italian restaurants.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PMSaturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PMSunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
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6. Park Side Restaurant
Park Side Restaurant is a large, classic Italian-American restaurant in Corona, Queens, located directly across from Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The restaurant is known for its formal, old-world atmosphere with uniformed waiters, extensive dining rooms, and a prominent garden area. The menu features generously portioned, traditional Italian-American dishes.More about Park Side Restaurant
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Italian-American
Signature Dishes:
Veal Chop alla Park SideLinguine with White Clam SauceStuffed Artichoke
Location:
107-01 51st Ave, Corona, NY 11368
Special Feature:
The restaurant offers complimentary valet parking, a significant convenience in the neighborhood. An extensive, glass-enclosed garden room provides year-round "outdoor" dining.
What Makes It Special:
Park Side is a neighborhood institution, celebrated for its consistent, high-quality execution of classic Italian-American fare in a grand, traditional setting that has remained unchanged for decades.
What Sets It Apart:
Its sheer scale, formal service, and its status as a long-standing Corona landmark make it a definitive destination for old-school Italian-American fine dining, distinct from smaller, more modern eateries.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMSunday: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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7
7. Il Gigante Restaurant
Il Gigante is an upscale Italian restaurant located within the Grandstand Building at the Silvercup Studios East complex in Long Island City. The restaurant has a modern, industrial-chic design with high ceilings, large windows, and a spacious dining room. The menu offers contemporary Italian cuisine.More about Il Gigante Restaurant
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Modern Italian
Signature Dishes:
Gigante MeatballsSpicy RigatoniGrilled Octopus
Location:
880 Woodward Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385
Special Feature:
The restaurant is situated within a movie studio complex, giving it a unique and somewhat hidden location. It features a large, elegant bar and an outdoor patio.
What Makes It Special:
Il Gigante is known for its sophisticated and trendy atmosphere, making it a popular spot for date nights and social gatherings in the Long Island City area.
What Sets It Apart:
Its location inside Silvercup Studios East and its grand, modern design create a destination-style dining experience that feels removed from the typical neighborhood restaurant.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PMSaturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
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8
8. Vetro by Russo’s
Vetro by Russo’s is an upscale Italian restaurant and event space located in Howard Beach, overlooking the waters of Jamaica Bay. The restaurant has a luxurious, modern design and includes a rooftop lounge, multiple dining rooms, and a large bar.More about Vetro by Russo’s
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Modern Italian, Seafood
Signature Dishes:
Vetro's Famous MeatballsBranzino al SaleSpaghetti all'Aragosta (Lobster)
Location:
164-49 Cross Bay Blvd, Howard Beach, NY 11414
Special Feature:
The restaurant's rooftop lounge, "Vetro Rooftop," offers panoramic water views and a separate, more casual menu. The establishment is operated by the same family behind the famous Russo's on the Bay catering hall.
What Makes It Special:
Vetro is known for providing a high-end, "Manhattan-style" dining experience with its waterfront location, sophisticated decor, and focus on high-quality seafood.
What Sets It Apart:
Its waterfront setting with expansive bay views, combined with its rooftop lounge, creates a unique, resort-like atmosphere that is unmatched by other Italian restaurants in Queens.
Operating Hours:
Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PMSunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PMMonday: Closed
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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9
9. Leo’s Latticini
Leo’s Latticini, also known as "Mama’s of Corona," is a legendary Italian deli and sandwich shop that has been operating since the 1930s. It is a simple, counter-service establishment famous for its fresh, house-made mozzarella and classic Italian sandwiches.More about Leo’s Latticini
Type of Restaurant:
Deli / Sandwich Shop
Type of Food:
Italian Deli
Signature Dishes:
Mama's Special Sandwich (Prosciutto, Mozzarella, Peppers)The "Bomb" Sandwich (Various Italian Meats)Fresh Mozzarella
Location:
46-02 104th St, Corona, NY 11368
Special Feature:
The deli is a pre-game ritual for many fans heading to Citi Field, located nearby. Its fresh mozzarella is made on-premises throughout the day.
What Makes It Special:
Leo's Latticini is a historic institution, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition, particularly its famous mozzarella, which is considered a benchmark in the city.
What Sets It Apart:
Its status as a historic, multi-generational Italian deli, rather than a sit-down restaurant, and its specific fame for one core product—fresh mozzarella—make it a unique culinary landmark.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PMSunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
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10
10. Bruno
Bruno is a family-owned Italian restaurant and bakery located in the Howard Beach area. The establishment serves a full menu of classic Italian dishes and is equally famous for its on-site bakery, which produces a wide array of traditional Italian pastries, cakes, and gelato.More about Bruno
Type of Restaurant:
Restaurant & Bakery
Type of Food:
Italian, Pastries
Signature Dishes:
Chicken FrancesePenne alla VodkaCannoli and Italian Pastries
Location:
158-22 Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach NY 11414
Special Feature:
The restaurant has a fully integrated, high-quality Italian bakery and gelateria on the premises, allowing diners to purchase a wide variety of desserts to take home.
What Makes It Special:
Bruno is a neighborhood institution, beloved for being a one-stop shop for a complete Italian meal, from savory entrees to exceptional, authentic desserts made in-house.
What Sets It Apart:
The hybrid model of a full-service traditional restaurant combined with a renowned, comprehensive Italian bakery and pastry shop is a feature that distinguishes it from other eateries.
Operating Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Italian Restaurants in Queens Famous?
Italian restaurants in Queens are famous for their deep-rooted neighborhood authenticity and for housing some of New York City's most legendary multi-generational dining establishments. The borough's reputation is built on a collection of culinary anchors in areas like Corona, Howard Beach, and Douglaston, rather than a single, centralized "Little Italy." What sets the Italian food in Queens apart is the sheer diversity of the experience, from the grand, formal dining rooms of Italian-American institutions to intimate, family-run trattorias specializing in the specific cuisine of a single Italian region. An Italian restaurant in Queens is often a community pillar, serving as a testament to the borough's rich immigrant history and its preservation of culinary traditions.
What Type of Italian Restaurant is Commonly Found in Queens?
Queens contains a wide spectrum of Italian restaurant types, each serving a distinct role within its neighborhood, including classic fine-dining establishments, regional trattorias, and historic delis. The list below details the most common categories.
- Classic Italian-American Fine Dining: These are large, formal establishments known for their old-world ambiance, professional service, and generous portions of traditional red-sauce classics. Park Side Restaurant is the quintessential example.
- Regional Trattorias: Smaller, family-operated restaurants that focus on the specific cuisine of a particular Italian region. Examples include Il Poeta for Abruzzese food and SoleLuna for Sicilian specialties.
- Historic Delis and Sandwich Shops: A unique and beloved category in Queens, these are counter-service establishments famous for specific products. Leo’s Latticini ("Mama’s of Corona") is a landmark in this group.
- Modern Italian Restaurants: These are stylish, contemporary venues that offer modern interpretations of Italian food in an upscale, energetic setting, often found in developing areas like Long Island City. Il Gigante and Trattoria 35 fit this description.
- Waterfront Dining Destinations: A distinct category featuring upscale restaurants with scenic views. Vetro by Russo’s in Howard Beach is the primary example, offering a luxurious setting overlooking Jamaica Bay.
Does Queens Have an Authentic Italian Restaurant?
Yes, Queens has deeply authentic Italian restaurants, including Il Toscano Ristorante, Il Poeta, and SoleLuna. The authenticity of these establishments is rooted in direct family heritage and strict adherence to regional culinary traditions. Il Toscano in Douglaston serves Northern Italian and Tuscan cuisine under the guidance of a family that has operated it for over 30 years. Il Poeta in Forest Hills offers a genuine taste of Abruzzo, with a chef-owner from the region who specializes in dishes like house-made chitarra pasta. SoleLuna in Sunnyside provides an authentic Sicilian experience, serving traditional street foods like panelle, connecting diners directly to the island's culinary identity.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best Italian Restaurants in Queens?
The best Italian restaurants in Queens are known for signature dishes such as the Veal Chop alla Park Side, Mama's Special Sandwich, and Chitarra alla Teramana. These dishes have become local legends, representing either decades of tradition or the specific craft of a chef. The most notable signature dishes are listed below.
- Veal Chop alla Park Side: A famously large and perfectly cooked veal chop from Park Side Restaurant, embodying the grand, classic style of the establishment.
- Mama's Special Sandwich: The legendary sandwich from Leo’s Latticini, made with prosciutto, fresh house-made mozzarella, and peppers, serving as a benchmark for Italian delis.
- Chitarra alla Teramana: A specialty at Il Poeta, this dish of fresh, square-cut spaghetti is made on a traditional stringed "chitarra" and served in a classic sauce from the Abruzzo region.
- Pappardelle alla Fiesolana: A signature pasta dish at Il Toscano featuring wide noodles in a creamy tomato sauce with prosciutto and beef, showcasing the restaurant's Tuscan focus.
- Branzino al Sale: A whole salt-baked sea bass from Vetro by Russo’s, representing the restaurant's upscale, seafood-centric approach to modern Italian dining.
Does Queens Enjoy Italian Food?
Yes, Queens enjoys Italian food immensely, a fact demonstrated through the incredible longevity of its historic establishments, the tradition of serving multiple generations of the same families, and the continued success of both old and new restaurants. Establishments like Park Side, Il Toscano, and Leo’s Latticini have been cornerstones of their neighborhoods for more than 30, 40, and even 80 years. These are not just restaurants but community institutions that host countless family celebrations and weekly dinners. The success of these historic places alongside a constant influx of new regional and modern Italian spots confirms that Italian food is an essential part of the borough's cultural and social life.
Are There Vegan Options in Italian Restaurants in Queens?
Yes, vegan options are available at Italian restaurants in Queens, with places like Il Poeta, Trattoria L'incontro, and John's Pizzeria of Bleecker Street offering plant-based choices. Many restaurants can modify classic pasta dishes to be vegan, such as preparing them with marinara or a sauce of garlic and oil. Pizzerias often provide the option to create a vegetable-topped pizza without cheese. Traditional menus also contain naturally vegan items, including certain appetizers like bruschetta with tomatoes and vegetable side dishes like sautéed broccoli rabe.
Do Italian Restaurants in Queens Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, Italian restaurants in Queens offer gluten-free options, with establishments like Il Toscano, Trattoria 35, and Vetro by Russo's providing accommodations. These restaurants are known to cater to diners with gluten sensitivities by offering pasta substitutes for many of their sauces. Pizzerias such as Basil Brick Oven Pizza in Astoria have gluten-free crusts available. Due to the high awareness of dietary needs, most upscale and many casual Italian restaurants in the borough can safely prepare gluten-free meals upon request.
What is the Average Meal Price for Italian Restaurants in Queens?
The average meal price for an Italian restaurant in Queens varies significantly, from under $20 for a classic deli sandwich to more than $150 for a fine-dining meal. A budget-friendly lunch for one person at a historic deli like Leo’s Latticini typically costs between $10 and $20. A sit-down dinner at a mid-range neighborhood trattoria, such as Il Poeta or SoleLuna, generally falls in the range of $40 to $70 per person for a full meal. For a meal at a high-end, fine-dining establishment like Park Side, Il Toscano, or Vetro, prices for entrees and appetizers will result in a total cost of $80 to $150 or more per person, especially with wine.
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