10 Best Italian Restaurants In NYC

New York is one of the premiere food destinations in the world, so if you're in the neighborhood, definitely check out one of the 10 best Italian restaurants in NYC. The best Italian restaurants range from extremely expensive dining rooms to hole-in-the-walls, featuring anything from seafood to veal chops to pizza slices. Anything goes when it comes to Italian in NYC. Just don't forget to bring your appetite.

1. Lombardi's. According to pizza legend, Lombardi's was the first pizzeria in the United States, opening up shop in the Soho neighborhood of NYC. Lombardi's has been serving up pies since 1905, building a reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants and pizzerias in New York. Lombardi's: 32 Spring St., New York, NY 10012.
2. DiFara. Though it can't claim the title of first pizzeria in New York, you could argue that it holds the title for the best pizza in town. Both the owner and the recipe are from Naples, and you can taste the home-grown herbs in every slice. 1424 Ave. J, Brooklyn, NY 11230.
3. Scarpetta. Chef Scott Conant has developed a reputation for creating some of the best Italian restaurants in NYC. Fortunately, with an average entree priced at around $25, his latest venture won't break the bank, and you can still get a taste of the good life. Scarpetta: 306 E. 81st St., New York NY 10014.
4. Convivio. If you're in the mood for a full dining experience, try the four course prix-fixe menu at one of the best Southern Italian restaurants in New York. Priced at $62 per person, it's one of the best deals around for one of the best meals in the city. Convivio: 45 Tudor City Pl., New York, NY 10017.
5. Babbo. When you think of the best Italian restaurants in NYC, you think Mario Batali, and this place is the best Batali has to offer. To get the most out of your meal, go for one of the eight course tasting menus, $69 for pasta or $75 for traditional. Babbo: 110 Waverly Pl., New York, NY 10011.
6. Marea. If you're not on an expense account or someone else's dime, you may want to reconsider making the trek to Marea. While it is known as one of the best seafood Italian restaurants in NYC, it's also one of the most expensive. Marea: 240 Central Park S., New York, NY 10019.
7. Felidia. You know a place is good if it can continue to find success in Manhattan for almost twenty years. Though chefs have come and gone through its kitchens, Felidia carries on its reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in New York. Felidia: 243 E. 58th St., New York, NY 10022.
8. Del Posto. If you are searching for a place with "wow" factor, check out Mario Batali's Del Posto. The food lives up to the restaurant's four-star reputation, and the wine list is impeccable. Just be ready to check the recession at the door. Del Posto: 85 Tenth Ave., New York, NY 10011.
9. Falai. Though chef-owner Iacopo Falai was formally trained in the French pastry tradition, he turns out inventive dishes and bright flavors with confidence. With an average entree priced at $25, Falai is a great value and one of the best Italian restaurants in Manhattan. Falai: 68 Clinton St., New York, NY 10002.
10. Esca. The seafood arm of Mario Batali's empire is undoubtedly one of the best Italian restaurant experiences in New York. If you're not in the mood for the crudo, go for the spaghetti with lobster, garnished with mint and chiles. Esca: 402 W. 43rd St., New York, NY 10036.