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Zia Maria
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Zia Maria
8.3
Full‑service pizzeria and Italian trattoria serving wood‑fired pizzas and fresh pasta in a casual, family‑oriented setting just steps from the High Line — a reliable spot for groups or a relaxed family dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Neapolitan‑style pizza, Homemade fresh pasta, Antipasti platter
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Wood‑fired pizzas and handmade pastas near the High Line.
Who should go: Families and relaxed diners.
When to visit: Weekend dinner or casual lunch.
What to order: Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta, antipasti platter.
Insider tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid wait at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, though limited near the High Line; valet options nearby.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and comfortable attire are perfect for a relaxed meal.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is comfortable, though it can get a bit lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated vegetarian menu options available, including pasta and pizza.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan options, mostly vegetable-based dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free pizza and pasta options available, with separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's a great spot for a relaxed first date. The casual atmosphere and wood-fired pizza create a cozy vibe, making it a comfortable place to get to know someone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While it's possible, especially during lunch, reservations are highly recommended for weekend dinners due to the high demand and potential wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, Zia Maria is very kid-friendly, offering a casual setting and a menu that appeals to young eaters. High chairs and a welcoming atmosphere make it a great choice for families.
Best For
Better for: Zia Maria excels in its family-friendly atmosphere and wood-fired pizzas, making it ideal for group dining and casual meals near the High Line.
Skip if: Skip Zia Maria if you're looking for a more upscale, fine-dining experience or if you're in the mood for a quieter, more intimate setting.
Zia Maria
8.1
Family‑owned pasta and pizza spot offering fresh-made pasta and casual drinks — a relaxed pick for a laid‑back date night. The bar adds flexibility for a pre‑ or post‑dinner cocktail, and sharing a custom pizza adds to the easygoing vibe. Portions and flavors consistently satisfy after multiple visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fresh handmade pasta, Custom wood-fired pizza, Antipasti platter
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Fresh pasta and pizza with a full bar in a neighborhood setting.
Who should go: Couples looking for low-key Italian with drinks.
When to visit: Weekend night for cocktail + dinner vibe.
What to order: Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, antipasti platter.
Insider tip: Go after 9 PM — quieter and bar busy instead of dining room crowd.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult to find after 6pm. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are fine, but lean towards dressy.
Noise level: Moderate – can comfortably hear your date, but it’s still lively.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
Vegan options: Limited – 2-3 options available, including a vegan pasta.
Gluten-free options: Yes – they offer gluten-free pasta and pizza, prepared in a separate area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s perfect for a first date with its relaxed atmosphere, intimate vibe, and flexible drink options. The quiet after 9 PM also helps for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try walking in, but it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends when wait times can be long.
Is it kid-friendly? While not specifically geared towards children, the casual setting and comfort food options make it suitable for families with older kids.
Best For
Better for: Zia Maria excels in offering a low-key, cozy ambiance perfect for a laid-back date night, with quality handmade pasta and pizza.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for an upscale, fine-dining Italian experience – for that, try places like L'Artusi or Del Posto.