Italian Restaurants in Midtown, NYC

Midtown Manhattan hosts a bunch of tourist attractions, including the Empire State Building and Times Square. Nestled in between these stops are several popular Italian restaurants - some famous, some quietly popular. Moderate to expensive in price, these eateries are the perfect pre- or post-theater stop for date nights or family outings. Remember, it's best to call for reservations to ensure a table on busy nights such as Friday or Saturday.

Carmine's

After opening in 1990, Carmine's is now one of the most popular Italian restaurants in New York City. According to the company, people liked "great food...served in huge portions at reasonable prices, each meal accompanied by oversized drinks." One plate of food serves four to six diners, and communal dining is encouraged. Carmine's also has delivery and catering options for those who wish to bypass the crowds.

Carmine's Theater District
200 West 44th St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 221-3800
http://www.carminesnyc.com/locations/tdny/index.php

Marea

Located on Central Park South, Marea is known for its innovative Italian seafood dishes. Chef Michael White and owner Chris Cannon center on foods that are indigenous to the Italian shore region along "the boot" of the country, sourcing most ingredients from this region. A four-course dinner prix fixe is $89, with a five-course seafood pairing available for $75. Reservations are recommended, since this restaurant gets very busy and is usually crowded.

Marea
240 Central Park South
New York, NY 10019
(212) 582-5100
www.marea-nyc.com

Convivio

Once again, Michael White and Chris Cannon appear on the list with Convivio, a highly rated Michelin Guide top-10 New York City restaurant. Unlike Marea, Convivio offers a trip through small-town, provincial southern Italian cuisine. Prices are a touch lower than for Marea, with an all-inclusive menu that has chicken, beef and pasta dishes. Convivio also has a prix fixe and tasting menu assortment.

Convivio
45 Tudor City Place
New York, NY 10017
(212) 599-5045
www.convivionyc.com

Esca

The editorial staff of Time Out New York sums up a meal at Mario Batali's Esca this way: "Start with the signature raw antipasti, called crudi, then move on to excellent, shareable pastas such as superfresh grilled fish, lavish Sicilian-style seafood stew, or succulent square-cut maccheroni alla chitarra with sea urchin and crab." There are a few dishes for those who aren't feeling seafood-friendly, but Esca is a haven for fish fans. Moderate to expensive in price, servings can run the gamut from small to large.

Esca
402 W 43rd St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 564-7272
www.esca-nyc.com

Article Written By Gigi Starr

Gigi Starr is a freelance fashion writer. She previously served as the blog editor for a major online fashion blog and has more than a decade of backstage experience in the beauty and high fashion industries. She has worked for businesses like an internationally renowned theatrical touring company and events such as the Mercedes-Benz N.Y.C. Fashion Week.

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