Best Italian Restaurants in NYC for World Cup Fans
New York has one of the largest Italian-American communities in the world, and its Italian food scene reflects that depth. From century-old red-sauce joints to modern Neapolitan restaurants, here's where Italian fans and food lovers should eat during the World Cup.
The Italian-American neighborhoods
Brooklyn's Bensonhurst and Howard Beach have the city's strongest Italian-American community, with old-school restaurants that have been feeding families for generations. Carroll Gardens and Red Hook also have excellent Italian options. In Manhattan, Arthur Avenue in the Bronx — sometimes called the real Little Italy — has a more authentic Italian market and restaurant scene than the tourist-heavy Mulberry Street corridor in Lower Manhattan.
Little Italy (Manhattan)
The Mulberry Street Little Italy corridor in Lower Manhattan is touristy and more expensive than it once was — but some good restaurants remain. Umberto's Clam House is historic. For a more authentic experience, go to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx or Bay Ridge in Brooklyn instead.
For Italian fans watching the World Cup
Italy qualified for the 2026 World Cup and has a passionate following in NYC's Italian-American community. Bensonhurst, Carroll Gardens, and Howard Beach are the neighborhoods where Italian fans will be watching together. See the Italy fan guide.
What to order
In a classic NYC Italian-American restaurant: clams casino, calamari, linguine with clam sauce, eggplant parmigiana, chicken scarpariello, tiramisu. In a more modern spot: cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana. The bread service (crusty bread with olive oil or butter) is often complimentary — don't skip it.
💡 Tip: Reserve at popular Italian restaurants well in advance for World Cup weekend — especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. Walk-ins are harder to get than in other cuisines.
Plan your full NYC visit
- Full NYC World Cup budget guide
- International visitor practical guide
- All NYC fan zones
- Where to stay in NYC
Hotels in New York City
Book your NYC hotel for the World Cup. Compare prices and locations.
Experiences & Events
Things To Do in NYC This Summer
Top Fever experiences happening in NYC during the World Cup
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