I cannot pronounce the name for the life in me but the food is so good! The service is usually pleasant and attentive— this spot has become one of my favorites. Their prosciutto pizza is so good! I’ve gone elsewhere for prosciutto pizza, and I keep coming back here. Also, I’m not a fan of margaritas but this place has really good margaritas— I guess because they make it with fresh lemons!
Overview
Nocciola Ristorante, located at 237 E 116th St, New York, NY 10029, offers a cozy and vibrant dining experience that reflects the heart and soul of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re a local or visiting New York, stepping into this charming spot feels like walking into a warm, family-owned eatery. The restaurant’s ambiance is inviting, with its rustic decor, and the friendly service adds to the relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
The menu at Nocciola Ristorante is a delightful journey through traditional Italian flavors, with a modern twist. One of the standout features of this place is the authenticity of its dishes. Take the classic pasta dishes, for example. Each plate is prepared fresh, showcasing the rich heritage of Italy’s culinary culture. A personal favorite is their pappardelle with braised short ribs - the pasta is perfectly cooked, and the sauce is rich and savory, with just the right balance of spices. For seafood lovers, the linguine alle vongole, a dish with tender clams and a garlic-infused broth, is a must-try.
But it’s not just the pasta that steals the show. The grilled octopus is another popular choice. Tender, smoky, and lightly charred, it's served with a refreshing citrus salad that brings out the flavors of the sea. Each dish is crafted with care and a true appreciation for high-quality ingredients.
Nocciola Ristorante’s pizza menu is another highlight, especially the Margherita pizza. The dough is light and slightly chewy, with just the right amount of crispiness. The fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes create the perfect combination of flavors, while the basil adds a burst of freshness. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, the porchetta pizza with roasted pork and caramelized onions is a flavorful and satisfying option.
For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert offerings are nothing short of heavenly. The tiramisu at Nocciola Ristorante is a crowd favorite, light yet indulgent, with layers of rich mascarpone cream and just the right touch of espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Another dessert that consistently impresses is the panna cotta - creamy and smooth, topped with a berry compote that perfectly balances the richness of the dish.
The drink menu is also impressive, with an extensive selection of Italian wines that pair perfectly with the dishes. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. Whether you prefer a light white wine or a bold red, there’s something to suit every palate. The cocktails are equally fantastic, with a variety of innovative drinks that add a modern flair to the traditional Italian dining experience.
As for the service, it’s warm and attentive without being overbearing. The waitstaff is incredibly friendly, offering recommendations and ensuring that your dining experience is top-notch. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a regular, the team at Nocciola Ristorante makes you feel like part of the family.
The location of Nocciola Ristorante is another bonus. Nestled in the heart of East Harlem, the restaurant offers a bit of a hidden gem feel. Despite being in a bustling part of New York, once you step inside, you’re transported to a peaceful oasis where the noise of the city fades away. The neighborhood’s vibrant energy is reflected in the restaurant’s atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
The restaurant’s popularity is evident in the glowing reviews it receives. Patrons frequently praise the quality of the food, the friendly service, and the welcoming environment. Many visitors comment on the authenticity of the dishes, noting that Nocciola Ristorante offers a genuine taste of Italy right in the heart of New York City. It’s no wonder that locals and tourists alike flock to this spot for an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you're enjoying a romantic evening, celebrating with friends, or just grabbing a quick bite, Nocciola Ristorante promises a memorable experience. From the food to the service to the ambiance, everything comes together seamlessly to create a dining experience that leaves you looking forward to your next visit.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Kerbside pickup ✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car parkOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendlyPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Paid street parkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 416 reviews
The staff is very attentive. My food tasted ok and the portion was reasonable. My date loved his chicken marsala. We shared a tiramasu which we both agree didn't tasted fresh... maybe a few days old. Overall a good experience. Wish they had more vegetarian options.
Wow, this food is amazing! I’m not sure who the chef is, but he needs a raise! This is top-quality restaurant food. The soup—oh my gosh—amazing! So tasty. The starters were delicious, and the mains were stunning. If only the interior were a bit more polished and there was some music, it would be perfect. Other than that, if you want incredible food for a great price, come here!
The food was so delicious! Oh my god the food was rich! The sauce was saucing! Everything about it tasted divine and I was gobbling it up. Dare I say brought me back to life lowkey?! The service was also great, everyone was so nice and attentive. They weren’t messing around. It was a longer wait for our food but that’s because the pasta was so fresh. So have patience!!!! The ambiance was gorgeous! It’s a long hallway and feels very romantic and intimate. We had the back booth and it wanna lay claim to it. Can’t wait to come back! I had the fettuccine Alfredo and that’s all I could ever ask for is a good one.
Had a retirement dinner for a co-worker.. Everything was GREAT! we had the back patio, and service for our guess for 50 ppl was great and very friendly.. no complaints! My coworkers were very happy with our drinks and dinner package for the retirement. FOOD WAS DELICIOUS!!!!! Love the place Highly recommend!!
East Harlem isn't really known for Italian food, and that's why Nocciola is a hidden gem in this neighborhood, and never disappoints. The service is really friendly and attentive. Lily and Antonio are always welcoming. My favorite appetizers are the burrata and the crispy calamari, but you can't go wrong when ordering a pizza. In entrees the chicken parm is a great portion, the carbonara is super creamy, and my friend loves how fluffy the gnocchi is. You have to save room for dessert and order the tiramisu or the panna cotta. Overall a comforting place, friendly service, fresh and affordable food. One of my favorite places in East Harlem.
Words can’t explain how delicious the food was. Omg !!! Adding that I love pasta, and here the past is delicious. I went to this place with my best friend, we are always looking for small cozy restaurants where we can talk and have a nice time. Starting with the bread and pesto sauce to the dessert. Food was 10/10 - I ordered spaghetti carbonara and added chicken. My best friend ordered Scampi spaghettis. The taste of the spaghetti was inexplicably delicious. We also had burrata and fried calamari as entries, drinks and chocolate cake with ice creams dessert. The service was beyond expectations. We will definitely be going back to this place.
I went with my family a the experience was really amazing. The place is humble and elegant at the same time. I will come back and I recommend for yourself, a date or as a family place.