This place really deserves better than 3 1/2 stars. It a classic New York Italian that's been around for a while and continues to attract a solid crowd every evening, particularly when anything is going on at Lincoln Center, a short 3 minute walk away. We went recently before seeing a 7PM performance of "Ragtime" at Lincoln Center. Even a 5:30 reservation was tight, so it's a good idea if you're going to the theater, to make a reservation. Before beginning this, I re-read my review from May 2024. We're so boring we ordered almost the same thing, without remembering. One of our party ordered the carpaccio, delicious! She and I shared a generous portion of lasagna that a was perfect, classic iteration. My husband revisited the Bolognese and we shared a Caesar. We even ended with the tiramisu (shared by all), one of the best I've had, a limoncello and cappucinos. The establishment is tuned into the theater crowd and we were out in time for the beginning of the show without sacrificing a leisurely, delicious dinner beforehand. read more

I brought a date to this "restaurant" before a visit to the Met. We were first seated in the front of the restaurant which proved to be terribly warm and humid. We moved inside and ordered our meals. Everything seemed fine UNTL my date removed a twisted piece of METAL from her ravioli. Thank GOD she didn't swallow it. I immediately called the waiter over who said, "oh that from the brush they use to clean the spinach". WHAT? He acted casually about it and gave us a half assed apology. I should have gone ballistic on him, but my date calmed me down. This event ruined our evening!! Compensation?? Noooooo, other that a "complimentary" 4 piece biscotti, which we didn't eat. When we left, he totally ignored us as apparently he just wanted us to leave. I will NEVER return to this "restaurant". If you do, good luck!! read more

I wouldn't have picked this spot to begin with, but then again I wouldn't have went to the ballet at the nearby Lincoln center, or maybe it'd be more properly worded to say, I don't think I'd go back to either ever again... Neither were the worst experience of my life but both were a "dilution of my soul." Friday night before valentines, place was dead and easy to get in to, but I didn't expect them to be very busy once seeing pics here on yelp, they were a close walk after leaving halfway through the ballet. I easily think we could half left halfway through the dinner and I'd be just as unaffected as leaving the ballet. The menu didn't have anything popping out at me, but I didn't expect it to, the meatballs were something I personally had never experienced, in a brown sauce with mashed potatoes... come to think of it, everything came with mashed potato... very strange to me. The meatballs were goofball sized, decent at best, the brown sauce was almost good, but mostly just bland. The mashed potatoes... whatever. The pasta tasted fresh, the bolognese was decent, the bucatini was salty, the three items came to $81+tip. $100 night for two bowls of middle of the road pasta and sidewalk meatballs, I dnno. Not every meal needs to knock our socks off, but this isn't one I'd ever suggest. Wait a minute, yes, every meal is an opportunity to knock your socks off, or slap a smile on your face; this meal and service wasn't worth $100 by a long shot, I don't think it'd be worth $50 either. read more

Il Violino - Da fuq- Polpette - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

This place has a nice old-school Italian feel, the kind that makes you want to settle in for a long meal. The cappuccino was excellent and easily the best part of the visit, rich and smooth with just the right foam. The food itself was hit or miss. The bread didn't feel fresh, even though the olive oil that came with it was really good. The beef had nice flavor but was much too salty. Service was polite but distant. Our waiter didn't seem very engaged until the check arrived, which made the meal feel a little transactional. The space, however, is cozy and full of charm, with its warm lighting and classic decor. Overall, it's a decent spot if you are nearby and want a quiet meal, but a few details, freshness, balance, and genuine warmth, would make it so much better. read more

See all

A true old school neighborhood Italian restaurant whose longtime existence speaks for something. Most of its charm is rooted in the interiors lack of updates and flashy, sleek feel that so many of the new restaurants go for. Personally, I found the food to be on the salty side and the Marsala sauce was more of a brown pan sauce with no trace of the sweet wine that is so unique to the dish. The service is attentive and the food came out quickly. It can be a tight squeeze when full but that's what dining in so many NYC restaurants is all about. Overall it's a solid 3 star restaurant. read more

See all

Took my friend to all my favorite spots at Central Park. We walked so much, we got a little hungry. I was craving Italian so we walked over to Gaga's spot, but it was close. My plan b was to walk until something caught our eyes. This was it. To be honest, we just wanted to get a drink, pee then walk over to the show we were watching. By the time we sat down and smelled all the smells we decided to get the calamari and caesar salad. The prosecco was so good. The dipping sauce for the calamari was out of this world good. And that salad was outrageous yummy. I kept seeing how happy everyone looked while they went to town on their pasta orders. I was this close to getting something, but I held back because I knew we were having a big dinner post show. The service was fantastic. I felt a little bit like I was in Italy. My friend wanted to come back for a proper dinner, but I vetoed because I was not about to backtrack in cold as we would have to walk 10 blocks. I am however adding them to my list so I can come back the next time I'm in town. read more

See all

Il Violino consistently delivers on exceptional service, delicious cuisine and an atmosphere that makes you feel instantly delighted. Combining old world charm with a relaxed charm, the staff knows what they're doing to provide a wonderful experience. Conveniently located on the Upper West Side on 68th and Columbus, it's near Lincoln Center, lots of shopping and several subway stops, making it an easy visit wherever you're traveling from. We highly recommend it! You will leave with your bellies full and a big smile on your face! read more

See all

I flew out from California and an old friend recommended Il Violino, and I'm really glad they did. I ordered the linguini with clams and mussels in white wine sauce, and it was outstanding. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the seafood was fresh, and the sauce was light, flavorful, and balanced exactly how it should be. You can tell real care goes into the food. The service was just as impressive warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. If a place can live up to a recommendation strong enough to follow across the country, that says a lot. Il Violino absolutely delivered. read more

Il Violino - Linguine con Vongole, Fettuccine Con Scampi All'Arrabbiata - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

It started out as a disastrous evening. My family was going out for a birthday dinner and the restaurant we booked lost our reservation and was booked for the night. We had to find another restaurant in the neighborhood, which wasn't easy given my family wanted to have an early dinner and most places were full at this hour due to the pre-show Lincoln Center crowd. We tried Il Violino. The wonderful hostess was sympathetic to our situation (especially given we had a family member in a wheelchair) and made a table available for us as soon as she could. Disaster was averted and it gave me a positive impression of the place as soon as possible. The pre-theater crowds made seating tight, but that was going to be expected in any restaurant in the neighborhood. Service was attentive and efficient without being rushed. I think the only complaint anyone had about the food was the calamari were overcooked (but the sauce was excellent). The dressing on the prosciutto-wrapped burrata was equally impressive. I enjoyed my braised lamb entree. The rest of the family approved of their entrees as well. Portions were generous. The hazelnut tartuffo for dessert was unique and delicious. I would definitely eat here again when I am in the neighborhood. I won't forget how helpful they were and the food was good too. read more

I couldn't help but wonder--does brunch at 2 PM count as fashionably late or just late? Either way, I landed at this cozy spot for a mid-afternoon feast, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The service was speedy--though, to be fair, it wasn't exactly buzzing with a lunch rush. My French toast? A perfect 10/10, like the little black dress of breakfast foods. The corned beef hash? Deliciously hearty, like a warm hug on a cold New York morning. The restaurant itself was that perfect balance--quiet but with just enough of a crowd to feel inviting, like being at a chic friend's apartment for brunch. read more

We were excited to visit this Italian restaurant in New York, but was very disappointed. The staff were rude, in fact the woman in charge was very unfriendly. Some of our meals were OK, but the Penne Vodka was dry and tasteless. Won't go there again! read more

Excellent Italian dinner before McNeal broadway show. Service was excellent! Drinks were great! Dinner was amazing! read more

See all

Hidden Gem on the UWS! Food/Drinks: 5/5 I was in the mood for my pasta cravings to be filled and Il Violino did not disappoint! Typically, I'm either in a classic pasta mood or eager to try something new. The menu is complete with your traditional Italian pasta meals (i.e. penne alla vodka) and more unique items IMO like the Orecchiette Broccoli e Salsiccia - which I've never tried and can't pronounce but it was delicious! My partner is Italian so it's nice when a place gets his seal of approval *chef's kiss*. Truly quality Italian! There's also something for those who aren't in the mood for pasta as well. Service: 5/5 Our waitresses recommendations were ON POINT! I'm always pretty indecisive so it's nice when people are patient with me lol. She provided me with a few options for drinks and I loved the Riesling she recommended. Our food came out so fast which was amazing (and a rarity in the city) because we were starved lol. She checked in on us frequently to make sure everything was going well! Vibe: 5/5 The warm and cozy atmosphere made me feel like I had discovered a neighborhood secret upon walking in. The owner radiates warmth and friendliness and adds a personal touch to the restaurant. Also, we love to see a woman-owned restaurant!! If you sit inside, it's very much a homey feel (also loved that I could people like I was in an observatory). There is also outdoor seating nicely decorated. We came here for an impromptu date night but it felt like such a special occasion due to the atmosphere and service! Perfect spot for an anniversary or even something more chill like a pre-show dinner at Lincoln Center or a day in Central Park! read more

Il Violino - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

See all

It's rare that I give a one-star rating, but it's also rare that I encounter food at this price level that is prepared so indifferently. Case in point is the grilled branzino. This was a plate with a grilled white fish filet, but without any sauce or seasoning - just plain. The carrots and broccoli accompanying it were steamed, but also served plain. No sauce, no dressing, nothing - just dry. For $38, even in the Lincoln Center area, I found this kind of shocking. My dining companions reported that their entrees were similarly unimpressive. This is diner food, make no mistake about it, but not even at NYC diner prices. I will say that the service was good - a very attentive waiter, but that doesn't by any means make up for the poor quality. read more

Il Violino - Mussels - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Spent my birthday here, in such a unique setting. Some of the tastiest Italian food, desserts and wine that we could have hoped for in NYC! read more

See all

Very ordinary. The menu had everything you'd expect, but no pleasant surprise. Food was ... fine. Service was friendly and helpful. It is not a particularly pretty place; a bit shopworn. Very convenient to Lincoln Center and they got us out in time for the performance. read more

I don't necessarily think this place is bad, but it also has a lot of competition. In the end, it's not horrible but nothing stands out. The service was attentive. Food was ok. Decent but nothing rave worthy or that would make me specifically want to come here again. Atmosphere is casual, which I liked. Just seemed like people from the neighborhood having a meal. No crazy blasting music. Not trendy (in my opinion, in a good way). The food came out really quick. There's always a thin line when food comes out quick. It makes me think it's just been chilling there for hours or it was just frozen and then microwaved. I don't know if either is true, but the perception matters. But, the food was decent. My friend and I both had pasta cravings, so it hit the spot. Service was attentive but felt slightly rushed, but I didn't think the server was rude or anything. Just more to the point. I'd come here again just because the location is convenient. The service was quick, so if I ever want a quick meal that isn't fast food - it's always a good to have a few of those places in your restaurant arsenal. read more

Great food with a romantic ambiance that's great for dates and having a birthday celebration there. Awesome staff

I love Il Violino. I have been coming here for years with my Mom, friends and other family members. They have amazing food and service. Reading some of the other reviews I'm surprised because the food to me is really great. Any dish you get from here is good but I love the penne al a vodka with chicken and the lamb. The space is cozy inside and all the servers are really nice. Would recommend you to come here and try the food. If you have a dog you can sit outside and it's very comfortable as well. 5 stars must try. read more

We ate here after a show at Lincoln Center. It's an easy walk from there. We were seated right away, even though we were quite early for our reservation. The staff were attentive and the bread was warm and fresh. Our food arrived quickly - this is not the spot for a leisurely meal, at least not on a Saturday evening. Our entree portions were the perfect size, and the pasta was fresh. If you are looking for a traditional Italian meal with neighborhood ambience, I'll Violino is a great choice. read more

Great salmon appetizer. Gnocchi boloñesa was light, perfect gnocchi. Arriichetti with sausage and broccoli rabe was in a lovely light sauce. Wines- merlot and gavi di gavi we're well presented. Panna cotta and chocolate desserts were lovely! A really great meal!! Service was professional and gracious. We came without a reservation and appreciated the accommodation! read more

Il Violino - Dessert! - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

At first when bread was cold and hard to chew I got nervous so I decided to start with one dish and it passed the test so I ordered the lunch menu. Great price for everything and great food and service. I definitely would come back. Nice walk in Central Park and then a nice meal. Food was delicious thank you!! read more

See all

Good food, no nonsense, reasonably priced. Service is attentive but not overwhelming. Prix fix lunch is a real treat.

My boyfriend and I stopped by mainly because of the musicians in the front of the restaurant performing. I forget the groups name but they were GREAT and made the night lively and energetic. I ordered the Cesar salad and the spinach and ricotta cheese raviolis. The food was underwhelming and unappetizing. The raviolis were hard and did not taste fresh at all. The only decent thing about the dish was the creamy sauce it was cooked in. The Cesar salad was also a miss, not sure how you can get something as simple as a salad wrong. It tasted like they used either a different type of dressing or the dressing went bad. The service was mediocre. The waitress was kind and polite but service was really slow. It took them a while to take my order and to also check in to see how the meal was going. At the end of the night when we got the check I was really surprised to see that they charged for the takeout containers. Not sure if this is a new thing or a NYC thing but I have never been charged to take my food home. read more

Il Violino - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

A dear old favorite near Lincoln Center. Consistently delicious food and gracious, attentive service in a cozy, low key atmosphere. I have never had a dish here that disappointed me. This level of quality and care is hard to find these days. I highly recommend Il Violino to everybody. read more

Came here on a Saturday for a late lunch. The place has a nice old school vibe with dimmed lighting. We had the spaghetti bolognese and Cesar salad. The service was fast and overall positive. Good neighborhood restaurant to check out. read more

Il Violino - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Been going here regularly for about ten years. The food is always good, the atmosphere is relaxed, the service is friendly, and they have an outstanding busboy. We go here 3 or 4 times a month... read more

Food is dull and unspecial. Portions inexplicably variable. Service slow and indifferent. Cooked food overcooked; food that should have been served chilled was not. Snotty host who hasn't caught on that checking out your customers head to toe (not in a good way) is so aughts, and isn't done anymore. It's like, relax sir - this is a mid-at-best, utterly unremarkable place, on the *upper west side.* You're not Le Bernadin (which shouldn't act that way either btw). read more

A fantastic Italian experience with great food and service! Highly recommended. The greeter is very friendly, we got our preferred table and a great intro. Then our waitress was helpful, fast and friendly. All food and drinks were delivered on time. Excellent service. The Seafood linguini was very tasty, well prepared pasta with great flavor and plenty of seafood. The Gaspaccio Pomodoro was great for a very hot summer day (highly recommend to pair with Prosseco or Cold Beer). Burrata with Prosciutto was a great appetizer for 4. The risotto and the chicken Parmigiano were also very well prepared, with the risotto being the strongest because it gave us a great party of cheese flavors! We could not get to dessert, so we will come back soon and will do an update! Until then, a perfect score for a well rounded experience, service and food! read more

See all

Had a reservation at Il Violino the other day to have dinner before the evening Opera around the corner, and this was a very nice experience to have before the show. Restaurant is intimate and not too high brow, more mellow and casual for a dining experience. A lot of history here too, this place has been around for a long while. Rez is necessary for dining, as well as Covid Vax cards, as NYers are well aware, and seating is minimal, not too many tables. The service was really great, had a very nice server from Europe who was kind, professional, and caring while serving us, she did a great job. We got a bottle of white wine which was delicious and sweet, I had some Truffle Pasta with Mushrooms which was good, and that's essentially the deal with this spot. 4 stars, enjoyable time, good casual dinner choice for Opera goers. read more

Really good food. Spent about 300 for a double date and that was with 2 apps and a bottle of wine. Must try! We had the lasagna, the fish special for that night, the stuffed ravioli and the eggplant lasagna. For the apps we ate the calamari and the bruschetta. read more

- my friend who lives up there, loves this place - I didn't particularly care for the food - A lot of other people at out table shared the same review - service is really nice, you feel cared for once you are there - this seems like the kind of place to celebrity spot - lasagna was too cheesy - friend didn't like the risotto - wife ordered lamb, she thought it was alright - my other friend cleaned the plate of mushroom ravioli - bread for the table is extremely soft, like a pillow - my friend says they do meats really well - other friend sed chin part was just alright as well - they stayed open late for our party which was nice of them - everyone enjoyed the tartufo read more

Great place, with cozy atmosphere and delicious food. Daniela give us the best service in NY! She is such a sweetheart! read more

Il Violino - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

It was fine. I ordered from their pri-fixe menu for lunch. They were able to cater to my food sensitivities so I can't really complain.

Delicious food, wonderful waiter. Love sitting by the windows. My only caveat is that it's a bit cramped, the tables are very close together! read more

The mussels were not great and the service was poor. The ambiance was nice but service poor not a good experience. read more

A hidden gem to say the least. Made the mistake of coming here without a reservation and fortunately was able to be seated at the bar. Great experience and service. Food came out super fresh and fast (can't go wrong with the bolognese pastas). Also thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Nice small restaurant locally owned business vibes! read more

Good service and food...My guest from CA was so impressed. Will return soon.. Thank You

Ambience: nice Service: good Food: very meh Expected it'd have good food because it was kinda cozy in there. They can do much better. They should hire a chef who can cook, that's all. And it ain't cheap.. read more

Started with the minestrone which was thinner than what I'm used to but still chunky. Ordered the Capesante (scallops), so buttery and fresh. read more