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Emporio
Master Critic Review
Emporio
8.2
This Roman-style trattoria from the Aurora team has anchored NoLita since 2009, delivering thin-crust pizzas, housemade pastas, and a grocery store aesthetic that feels authentically Italian. The skylit back room provides one of downtown's most pleasant dining experiences, all at prices that feel reasonable for the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pizza with Sausage, Honey & Pecorino, Cacio e Pepe, Nutella Calzone
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Skylit Roman trattoria with 15+ years as a reliable neighborhood anchor
Who should go: Groups, families, and anyone wanting consistently good Italian
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easier seating in back room
What to order: Sausage-honey-pecorino pizza, cacio e pepe, Nutella calzone
Insider tip: The Cappalletti spritz variation is a house specialty worth trying
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking. Nearest garage at 284 Mott St (~$30 valet, steps away). Street parking extremely limited in NoLita; use SpotHero for $22-40 lots within 2-3 blocks.
Dress code: Casual - relaxed smart-casual perfectly appropriate. Jeans and comfortable outfits fit the unpretentious Roman trattoria vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-to-high - lively atmosphere especially when busy. Back skylit room slightly quieter than front bar area.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min wait common even with reservation on Friday/Saturday. Walk-ins may wait 60+ min.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated promptly. Reservations not essential.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong options including Eggplant Parmigiana, Ravioli Burrata, Tuscan Kale salad, multiple veggie pizzas (Margherita, Mushrooms), and vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited - Marinara pizza (no cheese) is fully vegan. Some antipasti and salads can be modified; ask server for accommodations.
Gluten-free options: Limited - traditional pasta/pizza focus with no dedicated GF menu. Branzino, salads, and grilled items are naturally GF. Ask server; kitchen can accommodate but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. The romantic skylit back room creates an intimate atmosphere with rustic charm. Noise can pick up during peak hours, so request back room seating and book early (6pm) for easier conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch - yes, walk-ins usually seated quickly. Weekend dinner - possible but expect 30-60+ min wait. Staff is accommodating and may offer drinks at the bar while you wait. Reservations strongly recommended for Friday/Saturday.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - families dine here regularly. No formal kids menu, but pizzas, pastas, and Nutella calzone are crowd-pleasers for all ages. Early seating (5-6pm) recommended for younger children to avoid peak noise and wait times.
Best For
Better for: Reliable neighborhood Italian with 15+ years of consistency. Better than flashier NoLita spots for: reasonable prices ($22-28 pastas), gorgeous skylit back room ambiance, shareable wood-fired pizzas, and accommodating service for groups and families.
Skip if: You need strict gluten-free options, want ultra-quiet intimate conversation, or are in a rush with no reservation on a weekend night. Also skip if seeking cutting-edge or trendy - Emporio is about timeless Roman comfort, not innovation.