Flavors of New York Spotlight on: Impressive Italian Restaurants

Osteria Accademia

Osteria Accademia is the newest addition to the Upper West Side dining scene, bringing a taste of Mediterranean flavors to New York City. Led by restaurateurs Huseyin Ozer and Murat Akinci, the restaurant aims to create a cozy atmosphere for locals to enjoy fine Italian cuisine and good conversation in the Big Apple. With its nod to the universities and academies in NYC, Osteria Accademia is sure to be a hit among the intellectual crowd.

646 Amsterdam Ave., 212.685.0305, accademianyc.com

Lafolia

Chef Mirra Sims’ Lafolia Restaurant is one of the most exciting new additions to the New York City food scene. Located on the lower level of The Gardens at 780, this hidden gem has quickly become a favorite among locals for its fresh ingredients and vegetable-forward dishes. The menu features a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, including Heritage Bacon Carbonara and Cippolini Stuffed Flatbread. In addition to the a la carte menu, Lafolia Restaurant also has a lively happy hour.

780 3rd Ave., 607.295.3314, lafolia-nyc.com

Olio e Più

Olio e Più serves up Italian comfort foods for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour. The restaurant’s rustic space and spacious sidewalk seating offer the perfect setting for a delicious meal with family and friends. Diners can choose from a wide selection of menu items, including charcuterie boards, homemade pastas and handmade pizzas.

3 Greenwich Ave., 212.243.6546, olioepiu.nyc

Masseria dei Vini

Masserie dei Vini serves farm fresh Italian classics from Puglia. The restaurant’s menu contains an extensive selection of antipasti and salads, pastas, pizzas and main courses. Diners can enjoy traditional tastes and more obscure flavors like the “Tartufo Nero” and the “Agnolotti Piemontesi.” Make sure to save room for one of the decadent desserts like the “Crostatina Di Mele Con Gelato Alla Vaniglia.”

887 9th Ave., 212.315.2888, masseriadeivini.com

Portale

Enjoy classic Italian cuisine and reimagined flavors at Portale. The restaurant’s open kitchen and neutral color palette provide a serene space while the menu serves up all the best Italian dishes. Dine on traditional items like burrata and polpette (meatballs), or try out new tastes like the “Crudo di Tonno” (yellowfin tuna tartare) and the “Ippoglosso” (halibut). Stop by for happy hour and try out a variety of small plates alongside cocktails and happy hour wine specials by the glass.

126 W. 18th St., 917.781.0255 portalerestaurant.com