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Italian Food Center ico

Italian Food Center
- 161 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013

Restaurant ★4.0

161 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, USA

4.0
Aug 16, 2025, visited restaurant for dinner. The service was ok. The food was ok , nothing to brag about. The margarita pizza was not tasteful, very little sauce and dry. The Fettuccine Bolognese, was a little dry and slightly overcooked. I been to this restaurant many times and have eaten in many of the restaurants in Little Italy for over 50 years. So sad that the quality of Italian cooking is not like it used to be. Many of the restaurant’s chef have left and many of the chef are Mexican now. Most of the restaurant’s in Little Italy are more for tourists. I go to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx to have Italian food. It is also a little expensive for its food and portions served. Also very noisy you can’t really hear yourself talking because everyone sitting close to each other as well, especially if you are sitting outside or inside where it is open. - Latin Impulse Magazine
Italian Food Center Overview Intro Detail Photos Location Reviews

Italian Food Center Introduce

For New Yorkers looking to experience the time-honored charm of Little Italy, Italian Food Center is a destination that captures the essence of the neighborhood. Located on the bustling Mulberry Street, this casual and cozy spot provides a familiar and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a taste of classic Italian fare. While Little Italy is known for its many dining options, Italian Food Center stands out as a reliable choice for a straightforward and satisfying meal. It's a place that focuses on traditional comfort food, offering a no-frills dining experience where the focus is on the simple pleasures of good food and a relaxed setting. It’s an ideal spot for a spontaneous dinner or a solo dining experience, with a casual vibe that makes everyone feel right at home.

The culinary philosophy at Italian Food Center is centered on traditional Italian cooking. While specific menu details are not provided, the general offerings point to classic comfort foods that are a staple of Italian-American cuisine. The restaurant is a go-to for a quick bite or a satisfying dinner. The menu is likely to include a range of popular Italian dishes, from rich pasta dishes to savory mains and classic desserts. For instance, a customer review highlights a delicious tiramisu, which is praised as one of the best they have ever had. This suggests that the restaurant puts a special emphasis on a high-quality dessert selection, making it a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth after a hearty meal. Another customer review mentions that the food is good, but it's important to keep expectations in check, as the focus is on a simple, classic approach rather than a modern or gourmet twist. The value of the dining experience comes from its authenticity and the comfort it provides.

The atmosphere at Italian Food Center is notably casual and is popular among locals. This local appeal suggests that the restaurant has a loyal following who appreciate its straightforward approach to dining. It’s the kind of place where you can feel comfortable and relaxed, whether you're dining with a group or enjoying a quiet meal by yourself. The service is described as friendly and attentive, with staff members who are quick to help and ensure a pleasant experience. One reviewer specifically noted the staff’s responsiveness, mentioning a server who cleaned a small spill "in a blink, without asking," which highlights a dedication to a spotless and attentive service. While some reviews suggest the restaurant can be noisy due to its bustling environment and close seating, this also contributes to the lively and authentic Little Italy vibe. The restaurant accepts reservations, which is a helpful feature for those who want to plan ahead and secure a table during peak hours, ensuring a smoother visit.

Italian Food Center also caters to those looking for a quick and easy meal. With both dine-in and takeaway options, it provides flexibility for various dining preferences. Whether you want to sit down for a leisurely dinner or grab a meal on the go, the restaurant can accommodate your needs. The offerings include comfort food and quick bites, making it a suitable spot for a wide range of occasions, from a lunch break to a late-night craving. The availability of coffee is also a plus, making it a convenient stop for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner espresso. The restaurant’s commitment to providing a consistent and reliable experience has made it a local favorite, a place where people can go for a taste of traditional Italian cooking without any pretense. The focus on what they do well—classic dishes and dependable service—is what keeps people coming back. While some may find it a bit expensive for the portions, others find it to be a fair price for the quality and convenience it offers in a popular tourist area.

In a neighborhood that can sometimes feel overly tourist-oriented, Italian Food Center maintains a sense of local charm and authenticity. It’s a place that represents the classic Little Italy dining scene, where you can find honest, home-style food. The restaurant accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards, which adds to the convenience. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and its ability to deliver on the promise of good Italian comfort food. It may not be the most elegant or modern dining spot, but for many New Yorkers, that’s precisely its appeal. It's a place with character, a spot where you can feel the history of the neighborhood and enjoy a meal that’s both familiar and satisfying. If you're looking to escape the crowds and find a reliable, welcoming spot for a traditional Italian meal, Italian Food Center is a solid choice.

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Location and Accessibility

Italian Food Center is located at 161 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, USA, in the heart of the historic Little Italy neighborhood. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway and bus stops within a short walking distance. Its prime location on a bustling street makes it easy to find and a perfect stop while exploring the neighborhood. The restaurant's central location on Mulberry Street means it is a convenient and well-known spot for both locals and tourists looking for an authentic meal in the area.

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Services Offered
  • Dine-in service with a casual atmosphere.
  • Takeaway options for a convenient meal on the go.
  • Accepts reservations for planned dinners.
  • Offers a variety of dishes including dinner and dessert.
  • Provides coffee for a quick pick-me-up.
  • Accepts credit cards and debit cards for payment.
  • Accommodates solo diners.
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Features / Highlights
  • Authentic Italian Comfort Food: Focuses on classic, traditional Italian dishes that are both familiar and satisfying.
  • Casual Atmosphere: A relaxed and cozy environment perfect for a low-key dinner.
  • Local Favorite: Popular among locals, suggesting a consistent and reliable quality.
  • Attentive Service: Known for its friendly and quick service, with staff who are responsive to customer needs.
  • Delicious Desserts: A particular highlight is their tiramisu, which has received high praise.
  • Quick Bite: An ideal spot for a fast and satisfying meal.
  • Convenient Location: Situated on a prime street in Little Italy, making it easy to access.
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Contact Information

Address: 161 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, USA

Phone: (838) 204-6432

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What is worth choosing

Choosing Italian Food Center is a great decision for anyone who values a no-frills, authentic Italian dining experience. The main reason to visit is for the dependable comfort food it provides. While it may not be a high-end, elegant spot, its strength lies in its simplicity and its commitment to serving classic dishes that feel like a home-cooked meal. The friendly and attentive service adds to the welcoming atmosphere, and the availability of delicious desserts like their acclaimed tiramisu is a definite plus. For those who want to avoid the overly touristy traps and find a spot where locals dine, Italian Food Center offers a genuine taste of Little Italy. It's a reliable choice for a casual dinner or a quick bite, providing a satisfying and authentic meal without the high-end price tag or pretense. It's a place that captures the true essence of the neighborhood's culinary tradition, making it a worthwhile visit.

Italian Food Center Details

  • Service options

  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Popular for

  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Offerings

  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Quick bite
  • Dining options

  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Crowd

  • Locals
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards

Italian Food Center Photos

Italian Food Center Picture 1Italian Food Center Picture 2Italian Food Center Picture 3Italian Food Center Picture 4Italian Food Center Picture 5Italian Food Center Picture 6Italian Food Center Picture 7Italian Food Center Picture 8Italian Food Center Picture 9Italian Food Center Picture 10

Italian Food Center Location

Italian Food Center

161 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, USA

Italian Food Center Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 14 user reviews.

pizza

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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