Best Date Night Italian Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan (10019)
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Marea
Seafood-driven Italian mastery in a Michelin setting.
Essential Picks
#1
Marea
9.1
A Michelin-starred Central Park South institution specializing in coastal Italian seafood with high-gloss technique. The crudo program and house-made pastas remain the calling cards, served in a power-dining room that feels celebratory without going stuffy. Expensive, but the kitchen’s precision keeps it destination-worthy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fusilli with octopus and bone marrow, Crudo tasting, Gnocchetti with lobster
What makes it special: Seafood-driven Italian mastery in a Michelin setting.
Notable Picks
#2
Il Tinello
8.6
A 38-year tradition of Northern Italian excellence continues at this East Side outpost. Owner Benny Bello delivers white-glove hospitality with tableside flambéed bananas foster and complimentary grappa, making every guest feel like family.
Must-Try Dishes:
Veal Milanese, Shrimp Scampi Il Tinello, Crab Cappellini
What makes it special: 38 years of tradition with owner Benny personally greeting every guest
8.5
Da Marino serves classic Italian comfort dishes in a laid‑back Midtown trattoria — good for a no‑frills, hearty date night. Familiar pasta and red‑sauce staples draw a consistent crowd of locals and visitors alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Linguine al clams, Chicken parmigiana, Tiramisu
What makes it special: Straightforward, reliable Italian dishes in a friendly neighborhood setting
#4
Don Antonio
8.0
A theater-district Neapolitan spot known for wood-fired pies and excellent pizza fritta. The room is lively but focused on craft, with dough that stays light and blistered. One of the more chef-driven pizza options in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Montanara pizza fritta, Margherita D.O.P., Prosciutto e burrata pizza
What makes it special: Neapolitan pies plus rare, well-done fried pizza.