Scarsdale, New York, is known for its beautiful homes, excellent schools, and, increasingly, its impressive dining scene. With an upscale atmosphere and a discerning population, the village demands high-quality culinary experiences.
Italian cuisine is a cornerstone of the American dining landscape, and Scarsdale is no exception. From classic, family-run trattorias to modern restaurants with innovative takes on Italian staples, the options are plentiful.
Whether you’re a Scarsdale resident or just visiting, this guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the best Italian restaurants Scarsdale has to offer. We’ll explore a range of dining options, from the most authentic, traditional recipes to modern interpretations of Italian classics. Prepare your appetite!
A taste of Italy in Scarsdale
Craving some pasta? Yearning for a pizza pie? Scarsdale has a variety of Italian restaurants to choose from, each offering its own take on classic Italian cuisine.
Types of Italian restaurants
Here’s a quick look at the types of Italian restaurants you’ll find in and around Scarsdale:
- Traditional Italian restaurants. These spots focus on classic dishes and cherished family recipes, such as lasagna, spaghetti carbonara, and osso buco.
- Modern Italian restaurants. Looking for something a little different? These restaurants offer innovative twists on traditional Italian dishes, with creative pasta preparations, unique pizza toppings, and updated versions of classic desserts.
- Pizzerias. Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a pizza. Pizzerias specialize in this iconic dish, offering everything from Neapolitan-style pies to New York-style slices. Many also offer other Italian favorites like calzones and stromboli.
What to consider when choosing a restaurant
With so many options, how do you pick the perfect spot? Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Price range. Scarsdale offers everything from casual eateries to fancy fine-dining establishments. Consider your budget and the type of dining experience you’re after.
- Ambiance. Are you planning a romantic dinner for two? Or a casual family outing? Some restaurants offer live music or outdoor seating, which can enhance your experience.
- Dietary restrictions. Got a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diner in your group? Many restaurants are happy to accommodate special dietary needs, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.
A detailed look at specific Italian restaurants
Scarsdale boasts a delightful array of Italian restaurants, each with its own distinct charm and culinary offerings. Here’s a closer look at three fictional establishments that capture the essence of Scarsdale’s Italian dining scene.
Restaurant A: Bella Notte Ristorante
Bella Notte Ristorante offers a classic Italian experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu is a love letter to traditional Italian dishes, with standout pasta creations like the Tagliatelle al Tartufo Nero, featuring house-made pasta tossed in a decadent cream sauce with Italian black truffle and Parmigiano Reggiano. Pizza lovers will rejoice in the Pizza con Pollo Rosticciato, a crispy thin-crust pie topped with free-range chicken breast, roasted red peppers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Appetizers range from classic bruschetta to inventive seafood creations, while the salads offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richer dishes. Steak lovers aren’t left out, with a perfectly grilled Bistecca alla Fiorentina always on offer. Bella Notte also features a popular brunch menu on weekends.
The ambiance at Bella Notte is undeniably romantic, with soft lighting, cozy booths, and elegant decor. It’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or a quiet dinner for two.
Prices at Bella Notte range from $15 for appetizers and salads to $35 for pasta dishes and pizzas, and up to $55 for the steak. While not the cheapest option in town, the quality of the ingredients and the impeccable service make it a worthwhile splurge.
Restaurant B: Trattoria Moderna
Trattoria Moderna takes a more innovative approach to Italian cuisine, blending classic flavors with modern techniques. While they offer familiar favorites, it’s the unique dishes that set them apart. Consider the Arancini di Riso Nero, black rice balls stuffed with seafood and served with a saffron aioli, or the Osso Buco Ravioli, a creative twist on a traditional Milanese dish. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
Trattoria Moderna boasts a lively and inviting atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The interior is modern and stylish, while the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco on a warm evening.
Prices at Trattoria Moderna are slightly lower than Bella Notte, with appetizers and salads ranging from $12 to $20, and entrees priced between $25 and $40. They also offer a prix fixe menu on weeknights, making it an affordable option for a mid-week treat. Keep an eye out for their wine tasting events, too!
Restaurant C: Nonna Emilia’s
Nonna Emilia’s specializes in regional Italian cuisine, focusing on the hearty and flavorful dishes of Emilia-Romagna. Expect to find homemade pastas, rich sauces, and plenty of cured meats and cheeses. The Lasagna Verde, made with spinach pasta and a creamy béchamel sauce, is a must-try, as is the Tortellini in Brodo, delicate pasta dumplings served in a flavorful broth.
Nonna Emilia’s offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria. The decor is rustic and charming, with exposed brick walls and checkered tablecloths. They also host special events like pasta-making classes and wine dinners.
Prices at Nonna Emilia’s are generally comparable to other Italian restaurants in Scarsdale, with appetizers ranging from $10 to $18 and entrees priced between $22 and $35. However, the portions are generous, making it a great value for the price. Compared to Bella Notte, Nonna Emilia’s is a little more affordable, and the vibe is more casual.
Must-Try Italian Dishes in Scarsdale
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal with friends, Scarsdale’s Italian restaurants offer a range of dishes to tempt your taste buds. Here are some classics and modern creations you shouldn’t miss.
Pasta Dishes
Pasta is the heart of Italian cuisine, and Scarsdale’s restaurants serve up both traditional favorites and innovative twists.
- Classic Pasta Dishes: You can’t go wrong with Spaghetti Carbonara (pasta tossed in a rich sauce of eggs, pancetta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper), Lasagna (layered pasta with meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella), or Fettuccine Alfredo (fettuccine noodles in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce).
- Regional Pasta Specialties: Venture beyond the basics and try Agnolotti (small, stuffed pasta pockets from the Piedmont region), Orecchiette (ear-shaped pasta from Puglia, often served with broccoli rabe), or Pesto Genovese (pasta tossed in a fragrant sauce of basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil from Liguria).
- Modern Pasta Creations: For a more adventurous palate, look for dishes like Truffle Pasta (pasta infused with the earthy aroma of truffles), Lobster Ravioli (ravioli filled with sweet lobster meat), or Squid Ink Pasta (black pasta with a slightly briny flavor, often served with seafood).
Pizza
From classic Neapolitan to New York-style slices, Scarsdale’s pizzerias cater to every pizza craving.
- Neapolitan Pizza: Characterized by its thin, soft crust, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, Neapolitan pizza emphasizes the quality of its ingredients.
- New York-Style Pizza: With its large, foldable slices and classic toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms, New York-style pizza is a staple of the city’s culinary scene. It evolved from Neapolitan pizza brought by Italian immigrants and adapted to local tastes.
- Gourmet Pizza: For a more creative take on pizza, try gourmet options with unique toppings like fig and prosciutto, artisanal cheeses, or inventive flavor combinations.
Secondi Piatti (Main Courses)
Beyond pasta and pizza, Italian cuisine boasts a wide range of hearty main courses.
- Osso Buco: This classic dish features braised veal shanks in a flavorful sauce of white wine, vegetables, and herbs. It’s traditionally served with risotto Milanese or polenta.
- Chicken Parmesan: A breaded chicken cutlet topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, Chicken Parmesan is a comforting and satisfying dish. Variations include adding eggplant or using different types of cheese.
- Steak Florentine: A grilled T-bone steak seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil, Steak Florentine highlights the quality of the beef. Proper grilling techniques are essential to ensure a tender and flavorful steak.
Brunch Options at Italian Restaurants in Scarsdale
Who says Italian restaurants are just for dinner? Several spots in Scarsdale offer delicious brunch menus with an Italian twist. Think beyond pasta and pizza!
Here’s a taste of what you might find:
- Frittatas: Fluffy egg dishes packed with Italian cheeses and fresh vegetables.
- Italian-Style French Toast: Decadent French toast made with mascarpone cheese and topped with seasonal berries.
- Eggs Benedict with Prosciutto: A savory take on a classic, featuring salty prosciutto and creamy hollandaise.
And don’t forget the drinks!
- Mimosas with Prosecco: A bubbly brunch staple made even better with Italian sparkling wine.
- Bellinis: A sweet and refreshing cocktail with peach puree.
- Italian Coffee Drinks: Start your day with a cappuccino or macchiato.
Unfortunately, I don’t have real-time access to specific restaurant menus. To find Italian restaurants in Scarsdale offering brunch, I’d recommend checking online review sites like Yelp or OpenTable. Look for restaurants that specialize in Italian cuisine and filter by those that serve brunch. Happy brunching!
Key Takeaways
Whether you’re looking for a casual pizza joint, a white-tablecloth experience, or something in between, Scarsdale has an Italian restaurant to suit your taste and budget.
With so many great options, I encourage you to explore the different restaurants and find your own favorites. Try a new dish or a new place for an old favorite. And be sure to consider not just the food but the atmosphere, too. The right ambience can make all the difference.
Italian food is popular for a reason. It’s comforting, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. No wonder it remains a top choice for Scarsdale residents and visitors alike.