Nowadays it seems impossible to find good and cheap Italian restaurants in NYC –and any kind of good, affordable restaurants, to be fair–, but I guarantee you this is totally possible! I’m going to be uncovering some hidden gems in the city where you can indulge in mouthwatering Italian cuisine without the need to worry about the bill.
I’m all about traveling and trying different restaurants in search of my next favorite dish. What I found out in my trips is that going out for a nice dinner doesn’t have to be an expensive luxury if you go to the right places – especially in a city like New York where there are so many options.
After reading this, Italian food will become your next go-to for a Saturday night!
10 Good & Cheap Italian Restaurants in NYC
10 Good & Cheap Italian Restaurants in NYCHave a taste of the best Italian food in the city without breaking the bank. Get ready to find new culinary treasures – these places are the real deal.
1. Patsy’s Pizzeria
Where It Is:
- Patsy’s in 2nd Ave – 801 2nd Ave.
- Patsy’s in Upper West Side – 61 West 74th St.
Opening Times:
- Sundays – Thursdays – 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Fridays & Saturdays – 11:30 AM – 11 PM
What started as a modest shop in Harlem in 1933, today Patsy’s Pizzeria is a historic spot in NYC known for its authentic, Sicilian coal-oven pizza. With multiple locations, Patsy’s famous pizzas attract hundreds of longstanding customers and tourists every day. Additionally, vegan and gluten-free options are also available on the menu.
This is the perfect place for holiday parties and big family get-togethers since it has a large dining area for events.
Order online or make reservations here.
2. Mamoun’s Falafel
Where It Is: 119 Macdougal Street, New York, NY 10012.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Wednesday – 11 AM – 2 AM
- Thursday – 11 AM – 3 AM
- Friday – Saturday – 11 AM – 4 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM – 1 AM
Although primarily known for its Middle Eastern cuisine, Mamoun’s offers some Mediterranean and Italian-inspired options. It’s very affordable and has been a staple in Greenwich Village for years. It’s perfect to get some quick, cheap eats when you’re touring the city or after a fun night out.
It’s also a great spot if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or if you struggle to find a good place in NYC to eat a more healthy meal – don’t miss out on the falafel and hummus!
Note: this is a cash-only restaurant.
Order online here.
3. L’Artusi
3. L’ArtusiWhere It Is: 228 West 10th Street, New York, NY 10014.
Opening Times:
- Monday – Wednesday – 5:30 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday – Saturday – 5:30 PM – 12 AM
- Sundays – 11 AM – 11 PM
Located in the West Village, L’Artusi is known for offering a contemporary take on traditional Italian cuisine. You can find a variety of options for brunch, lunch, and dinner, in addition to a fine selection of Italian wines and a specialty cheese bar.
The two-floor restaurant features a modern design with a comfortable, dimly-lit ambiance, featuring comfortable banquette seating, a private dining room, a walk-in wine cellar, an extended traditional bar, and a chef’s counter overlooking the open kitchen. It’s the kind of place you would go for a more elegant dinner or a romantic date.
It might not be the cheapest option, but you’re guaranteed a good price-to-quality ratio in one of the best Italian restaurants in NYC.
Visit the website to see all their menu items, order online, or make reservations.
Places to Stay in NYC
- Budget ($) — Walker Hotel Tribeca
- Best Value ($$) — Hotel Mimosa
- Luxe ($$$) — Hotel 50 Bowery
- Unique ($-$$$) — TownePlace Suites
4. Lombardi’s Pizza
Where It Is: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012.
Opening Times:
- Sunday – Thursday – 12 PM – 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM – 12 AM
Looking for good and cheap Italian restaurants in NYC with the best pizzas? Then you’re in the right place. Claiming to be America’s first pizzeria, Lombardi’s in Little Italy offers reasonably priced and highly rated pizzas. It’s a small but cozy place with comfortable seating and it’s totally worth getting a table here to enjoy the large slices of crispy, smoky-crusted pizza topped with the freshest ingredients and the perfect amount of cheese.
Note: this place is cash-only but you’ll find an ATM inside.
Order online here.
Inspired? Try these top restaurants near Houston St, NYC.
Trying on a budget? Here I share with you my best tips!
5. Joe’s Pizza
Where It Is: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014.
Opening Times:
- Sundays – Thursdays – 10 AM – 3 AM
- Fridays & Saturdays – 10 AM – 5 AM
Joe’s is another classic in New York among pizza lovers –because there’s no such thing as too much pizza– and is even considered a NYC institution. Owned and founded by a native Italian, Joe’s offers a blend of NYC street food style with influences from Naples, Italy –the birthplace of pizza!
Don’t be discouraged if you find a long line waiting outside, it actually moves pretty quickly as the service is fast and efficient. Not to mention that those tasty slices are really worth the wait.
Fun fact: Although the business has grown into a successful franchise with various locations, the most popular among New Yorkers and tourists is its original store in Carmine Street for its appearance in the 2004 film, “Spider-Man 2” – fans will surely remember when Peter Parker used to work as a delivery boy 😉
Order online on the website.
6. Parm
Where It Is: 248 Mulberry St, New York City, NY 10012.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM
With several locations, Parm is a casual restaurant that gained popularity in Little Italy for their exquisite Italian-American food, serving classic dishes like meatball Parmesan subs and Rigatoni Carbone. It was actually named one of the ‘101 Best Places to Eat in North America’ by Newsweek due to its authentic dishes and vibrant atmosphere – which makes it a must-visit if you’re looking for good, cheap Italian restaurants in NYC.
Enjoy flavorful meals in the indoor or outdoor area or sit at the bar for delicious cocktails at affordable prices.
Make reservations or order online on the website.
7. Rubirosa
Where It Is: 235 Mulberry St, New York City, NY 10012-4157.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 11 PM
If you love watching restaurant suggestions on TikTok, you’ve probably heard of Rubirosa. This is a family-run, cozy spot in Nolita specialized in serving Italian-American classics, having their own family recipes and signature delights like their famous tie-dye pizza and vodka sauce.
When it comes to thin-crust pizza, hand-made fresh pasta, and a terrific red wine list, you’ll find that this narrow and dimly-lit space is a staple in NYC – portions are huge, so come hungry!
Make reservations or order online on the website.
8. La Mela
Where It Is: 167 Mulberry St, New York City, NY 10013-3754.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday – 12 PM – 10 PM
La Mela is not necessarily the most popular spot but definitely a hidden gem in Little Italy, where you’re guaranteed great service, excellent Italian food, and prices that won’t break the bank.
In addition to generous, delicious dishes, La Mela’s cozy interior with exposed bricks and wall of photos creates a cozy atmosphere that will make you feel at home and will leave you wishing to come back as soon as you can.
Make reservations here.
9. San Marzano
Where It Is: 117 2nd Ave, New York City, NY 10003-8355.
Opening Times:
- Sunday – Thursday – 11 AM – 11 PM
- Fridays & Saturdays – 11 AM – 12 AM
If you love fresh handmade pasta, San Marzano is sure to become your top choice. It’s a lovely place in East Village that offers authentic Italian food at very affordable prices. This amazing restaurant is also known for being one of the best brunch spots in the area with a great brunch menu served on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
Additionally, this Italian spot has a stylish design with a laid-back, cozy atmosphere, perfect to go on a rainy day or a lazy Sunday.
Make reservations or order online on the website.
10. Pepe Rosso To Go
Where It Is: 168 Sullivan St, New York City, NY 10012-2507.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 11 PM
To finish with this list of good, cheap Italian restaurants in NYC, Pepe Rosso is another gem in the city that food enthusiasts can’t miss. Judging by its name, you would think that this is only a takeout place, but there’s actually a small and warm dining area both inside and outside.
If you don’t stay for the charming ambience, you’ll definitely want to grab a seat to enjoy their delicious Italian food, including savory appetizers, salads, and a top-notch variety of house-made pasta.
Order online here.
Last Thoughts
Thank you for making it to the end of the post! Hopefully, now you feel excited to treat yourself and your loved ones to a savory journey of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, whether you’re a visitor or a local seeking a new favorite spot.
These good and cheap Italian restaurants in NYC prove that enjoying a good meal can be both an accessible and delightful experience.
Buon appetito!
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
