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Il Falco

21-50 44th Dr, Long Island City, NY 11101
$$$
Italian, Venues & Event Spaces, Wine Bars, Italian

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Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)

Il Falco 8.4
Court Square
A classic-leaning Italian dining room with a menu that does its best work on nightly specials and old-school favorites. The vibe is date-friendly without being formal, and the kitchen’s strengths show up in seafood pastas, veal, and desserts that feel made for lingering.
Must-Try Dishes: Branzino, Burrata, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.3 Service: 8.4 Consistency: 8.7 Food Quality: 8.9 Atmosphere: 7.1 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Specials-driven Italian cooking with a patio and a classic LIC feel.
Who should go: Couples and locals who want a real sit-down meal
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for smoother pacing
What to order: Branzino, seafood pasta special, tiramisu
Insider tip: Ask what’s best on the specials board before ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive during dinner hours; nearby garages are the most reliable option if arriving after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy. Jackets and heels won’t feel out of place, but polished jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate – lively enough to feel energetic, but conversations at the table are easy.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially Friday and Saturday nights.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days; popular with nearby offices but tables turn smoothly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple pasta, antipasti, and salad options, plus vegetarian-friendly specials.
Vegan options: Limited – some vegetable-based pastas or sides can be adapted on request.
Gluten-free options: Limited but possible – select mains and seafood are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide you.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It feels elevated without being stiff, giving you a polished setting that still allows relaxed conversation and lingering over dessert.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or earlier in the evening, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekend dinners.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning. Older kids who can sit through a full meal are fine, but it’s best suited for adults and business meals.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian execution, strong nightly specials, and a refined but comfortable date-night atmosphere.
Skip if: You want a loud, trendy scene or ultra-modern Italian—this is about tradition and pacing, not hype.
Il Falco 8.3
Hunters Point
A polished neighborhood Italian room that leans into classic, crowd-pleasing execution with a special-occasion rhythm. Lasagna is the move when you want a hearty, traditional anchor—pair it with one bright starter and keep the rest of the order restrained.
Must-Try Dishes: Lasagna, Penne alla Vodka, Pollo Parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 7.5 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 8.6 Atmosphere: 8.2 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A celebratory Italian dining room with a dependable classics playbook.
Who should go: Date nights and milestone dinners
When to visit: Early seating for the smoothest service
What to order: Lasagna, penne alla vodka, pollo parmigiana
Insider tip: Choose one pasta and one main—too many plates slow the cadence.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 6pm, rideshare recommended for weekend dinners.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine if polished, many diners opt for date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation-friendly early, gets buzzier as the room fills.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute pause
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetarian pastas and starters available.
Vegan options: Limited—can accommodate with simple modifications; call ahead for clarity.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some dishes can be adapted, but no dedicated gluten-free menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—polished without being stuffy, with a warm vibe that feels special but still relaxed enough for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or early evenings; weekends are much smoother with a reservation, especially for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older kids who can handle a longer meal; more of a celebratory adult crowd at night.
Best For
Better for: Special-occasion Italian dinners where you want reliable classics, polished service, and a festive room.
Skip if: You’re looking for ultra-casual pricing, a quiet low-key meal, or a deeply regional/experimental Italian menu.
Il Falco 8.1
Court Square
A family-run Italian room that feels designed for long meals—fresh pastas, steady hospitality, and a menu that stays classic without getting boring. The dedicated patio turns it into an easy outdoor-dining option for groups who want a real sit-down dinner.
Must-Try Dishes: Gnocchi bolognese, Chicken parmigiana, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.6 Service: 8.5 Consistency: 8.2 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 7.4 Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A long-running local Italian with a real patio built for linger time.
Who should go: Families and groups who want classics
When to visit: Weekend dinner for full energy
What to order: Gnocchi bolognese, chicken parm, tiramisu
Insider tip: Go family-style on pastas—portioning works better when you share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited around Court Square; metered spots turn over but fill quickly at night. Paid garages within a few blocks are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but many diners lean polished—especially for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate. Easy to hold conversation, even with a full patio.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio tables
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple pasta dishes, salads, and vegetable sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with simple pasta or vegetable plates; best to ask the server.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some mains can be adapted, but no dedicated gluten-free pasta.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want something relaxed and low-pressure. The patio, classic menu, and steady pacing make conversation easy, though it’s more cozy than trendy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but weekends are tough—especially outdoors. Walk-ins are more realistic on weeknights or if you’re flexible on seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The menu is approachable, portions are generous, and families are common. Best for school-age kids rather than toddlers during peak dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Long, sit-down Italian dinners with classic pastas and a true outdoor setup that works for groups and families.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quick meal, a high-energy date-night scene, or a modern, chef-driven Italian menu.
Il Falco 8.0
Dutch Kills
An Italian dining room with a genuine private-upstairs feel that works well for tighter groups who care about pacing and conversation. It’s strongest when you build a simple progression—share a couple of starters, land one pasta, then split a main—so the room stays relaxed and timed.
Must-Try Dishes: Cacio e pepe-style pasta, Osso buco (when available), House tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.7 Service: 8 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 7.7 Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A true upstairs private-room setup that keeps the meal focused.
Who should go: Groups of 10–30 who want a quieter dinner
When to visit: Early dinner for the cleanest pacing
What to order: Two starters, one pasta, one shared main
Insider tip: Ask for a coursed flow—your table will feel twice as smooth.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive in the evenings; plan extra time or use a nearby paid garage if arriving after 6:30pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—nice jeans are fine, but most guests opt for polished dinner attire.
Noise level: Low to moderate—upstairs private room allows easy conversation without background bleed.
Weekend wait: Reservation strongly recommended; without one, expect 45–60 minutes or no availability.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; private room requires advance booking.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple pastas, antipasti, and vegetable-driven mains can anchor a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with advance notice, focusing on vegetable antipasti and custom pasta.
Gluten-free options: Yes—select mains and salads work; pasta alternatives may be accommodated with notice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for established dates than first impressions—the private-room energy shines when you’re already comfortable and want focused conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely for the upstairs room—book ahead to control pacing and seating; walk-ins may be limited to the main dining area if space allows.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—the room and menu skew adult and conversational; works better for teens at family celebrations.
Best For
Better for: Controlled pacing, quieter group dinners, and a true private-room feel without banquet vibes.
Skip if: You want a lively, buzzy Italian scene or flexible walk-in dining—choose a larger, more energetic trattoria instead.
Il Falco 8.3
Long Island City
Il Falco delivers approachable Italian classics with a touch of elegance, making it a comfortable choice for family dinners or casual celebrations. Its moderate review count reflects steady neighborhood appreciation.
Must-Try Dishes: Osso Buco, Risotto Milanese, Panna Cotta
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.2 Food Quality: 8.4 Atmosphere: 8.1 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Comfortable Italian with elevated touches
Who should go: Families and date nights alike
When to visit: Dinner for relaxed evenings
What to order: Osso Buco, Risotto, Panna Cotta
Insider tip: Try weekday specials for value
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult to find during peak dinner hours. There is a paid lot nearby, but it's limited.
Dress code: Smart casual - jeans are acceptable, but dressier attire is recommended for a more refined experience.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is comfortable, though it can get louder during busy times.
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes without a reservation, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, although it can be busy during lunchtime rush hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there are a few vegetarian pasta and risotto options available.
Vegan options: Limited - there are 2-3 vegan-friendly options, but the selection is not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes - the kitchen can accommodate gluten-free needs with separate prep areas for safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a great spot for a first date. The ambiance is relaxed yet refined, and the menu has a variety of approachable yet impressive Italian dishes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but you may experience a wait, especially on weekends. It’s recommended to make a reservation for the best experience.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the restaurant is family-friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere for children. The menu includes kid-friendly pasta options, and high chairs are available.
Best For
Better for: Il Falco is better for families and relaxed group dining with its approachable yet elevated menu and comfortable atmosphere.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a more casual, quick bite, or a trendy spot, you might want to skip Il Falco in favor of a more laid-back pizzeria or food hall.
Il Falco 8.2
Long Island City
Il Falco offers approachable Italian classics with elevated touches, making it a comfortable choice for family dinners or casual celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes: Osso Buco, Risotto, Panna Cotta
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 8.3 Consistency: 8.5 Food Quality: 8.5 Atmosphere: 7.8 Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Comfortable Italian with elevated touches.
Who should go: Families and date nights alike.
When to visit: Dinner for relaxed evenings.
What to order: Osso Buco, Risotto, Panna Cotta.
Insider tip: Try weekday specials for value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but it can be difficult to find after 6pm. Valet service is also available for $12.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are acceptable, but lean towards a dressier look for a more refined experience.
Noise level: Moderate – can hear your date comfortably without straining.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially on busy weekends.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, a perfect spot for a quick bite.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – there is a dedicated vegetarian menu section with multiple options.
Vegan options: Limited – around 2-3 vegan-friendly dishes available upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – they offer a separate prep area for gluten-free dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s ideal for a first date with its cozy ambiance and elevated yet approachable menu. The relaxed vibe allows for easy conversation while enjoying delicious Italian dishes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While walk-ins are welcome, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the restaurant has a family-friendly atmosphere with ample space for strollers. They offer a kids’ menu and can adjust portions for younger guests.
Best For
Better for: Il Falco stands out with its balance of elevated Italian classics in a casual, family-friendly environment. It’s perfect for both casual family dinners and special celebrations.
Skip if: If you're looking for a super casual pizza joint or a trendy spot with modern decor, you might want to explore other options in the area.
Il Falco 8.8
Long Island City
Il Falco offers a comfortable yet elevated Italian dining experience, perfect for intimate date nights.
Must-Try Dishes: Osso Buco, Risotto, Panna Cotta
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 8.7 Consistency: 9.2 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 8.5 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Elevated Italian dishes in a comfortable, cozy setting.
Who should go: Couples and intimate groups.
When to visit: Evenings for a relaxing, romantic vibe.
What to order: Osso Buco, Risotto, Panna Cotta.
Insider tip: Try the weekday specials for great value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; garage parking available within a few blocks. Street parking gets tighter after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jeans are fine, but a polished top or jacket fits the vibe.
Noise level: Low to moderate — quiet enough for easy conversation without straining.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta, risotto, and antipasti options available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable-based dishes can be adapted; best to ask the server.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pasta available and accommodating staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the calm atmosphere, attentive service, and approachable menu make it easy to relax and focus on conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or early evenings, but weekends are busy and reservations are highly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-oriented; older, well-behaved kids are fine, but it’s best suited for couples rather than families with young children.
Best For
Better for: Intimate date nights, refined Italian classics, and a quieter, more romantic setting than many LIC Italian spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for a high-energy scene, late-night buzz, or a very casual, kid-focused dining experience.