What is the best Italian restaurant in Long Island City?

Levante is our top pick for Italian restaurants in Long Island City, scoring 8.5/10. Pizza-first Italian with a big bar and a standout backyard space.

Any insider tips for Levante?

Aim for the backyard when the weather cooperates.

What should I order at Levante?

Neapolitan pizza, pesto pasta, panna cotta

When should I visit Levante?

Weekday happy hour or a warm weekend night

Who should go to Levante?

Groups and couples who want pizza with cocktails

Any insider tips for Il Falco?

Ask what’s best on the specials board before ordering.

What should I order at Il Falco?

Branzino, seafood pasta special, tiramisu

When should I visit Il Falco?

Weeknight dinner for smoother pacing

Who should go to Il Falco?

Couples and locals who want a real sit-down meal

Any insider tips for Manducatis?

Stick to classics—avoid turning it into a ‘try everything’ order.

When should I visit Manducatis?

Weeknight dinner for easiest tables

Who should go to Manducatis?

Classic Italian comfort loyalists

Best Date Night Italian Restaurants in Long Island City (11101)

3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: January 2026

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Our Top Pick

Levante

Pizza-first Italian with a big bar and a standout backyard space.

Notable Picks

#1 Levante

8.5

$$ Long Island City

Vibes: Trendy Table Hotspots Outdoor Dining Oasis Happy Hour Hotspots Girls Night Out Approved

Levante offers a lively family-style Italian experience, great for group date nights and socializing.

Must-Try Dishes: Neapolitan-style pizza, Pesto pasta, Panna cotta

What makes it special: Pizza-first Italian with a big bar and a standout backyard space.

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#2 Il Falco

8.4

$$$ Long Island City

Vibes: Date Night Magic Luxury Dining Elite Outdoor Dining Oasis Business Lunch Power Players

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

What makes it special: Specials-driven Italian cooking with a patio and a classic LIC feel.

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#3 Manducatis

8.4

$$ Long Island City

Vibes: Comfort Food Classics Hidden Gems Heaven Group Dining Gatherings Family Friendly Favorites

Manducatis serves Southern Italian favorites in a cozy, warm setting, perfect for romantic meals.

Must-Try Dishes: Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan, Shrimp Scampi

What makes it special: Old-country Italian comfort cooking in a low-key LIC setting.

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