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Spaghetti Incident
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Spaghetti Incident
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Spaghetti Incident is a narrow, casual pasta counter that serves saucy spaghetti and other shapes in paper cones and bowls for eating on the go or at a few tight seats. It’s more playful than formal, making it a go-to for quick Italian comfort before a night out nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spaghetti carbonara, Spaghetti alla bolognese, Pesto spaghetti cone
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Cone-served spaghetti and pastas that turn a sit-down dish into street-friendly comfort.
Who should go: Casual diners wanting fast, fun pasta near bars and galleries.
When to visit: Evenings before peak bar hours for the shortest line.
What to order: Spaghetti carbonara, a red-sauce option, and a pesto cone.
Insider tip: If you’re eating nearby, order to go and take your cone to a neighborhood park bench.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect limited availability on Ludlow and nearby blocks, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Come as you are — casual attire is perfectly normal for this quick-service pasta counter.
Noise level: Moderate during peak evenings due to the narrow space; generally easy to hold a brief conversation if seated.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on bar traffic nearby; occasionally longer right after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a brief line that moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several red-sauce and pesto pastas are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of tomato-based options may qualify, but customization is minimal.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free pasta; those with sensitivities should plan accordingly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something casual and low-pressure. The tight space and to-go cone format make it better for a quick bite before heading elsewhere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service only and first come, first served. Seating is limited, but turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy pasta and can manage counter seating. Limited space makes it less ideal for strollers or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable, playful pasta that works perfectly as a pre-game bite before exploring the Lower East Side.
Skip if: You want a seated, lingering Italian meal, refined pastas, or gluten-free accommodations.
Spaghetti Incident
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Spaghetti Incident is a narrow Eldridge Street trattoria where lasagna Bolognese and other pastas are served in a rock-and-roll accented, brick-lined room that stays busy with locals and visiting carb hunters. With hundreds of recent reviews and steady praise for its saucy baked pasta, it’s one of the most reliable classic lasagna plates in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna Bolognese with traditional beef ragù and béchamel, Ragù Bolognese spaghetti, Arancini with marinara
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Cozy, music-loving pasta bar where lasagna Bolognese leads a tight lineup.
Who should go: Pasta fans wanting hearty plates in a casual room.
When to visit: Early evening or late night to dodge peak waits.
What to order: Lasagna Bolognese, ragù spaghetti, a round of arancini.
Insider tip: Reserve on weekends and ask for a counter seat if you like watching the room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on the LES is limited; expect circling during peak dinner hours. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate — lively music and tight quarters, but you can still hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially between 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pastas and sides work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — most dishes include cheese or dairy; ask about vegan-adjustable sauces.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated GF pasta, but some antipasti and salads are safe options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a low-key, cozy, neighborhood vibe; the tight room and music give it charm without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes — they hold seats for walk-ins, but expect a short wait on weekends and during prime dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy pasta; the narrow space and louder energy may be tough for strollers or very young children.
Best For
Better for: Classic, saucy lasagna Bolognese and unfussy pasta in a casual, music-forward setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet room, extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or white-tablecloth Italian dining.