Nica Trattoria

- 354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028

In a city filled with Italian restaurants, finding a place that feels truly authentic, warm, and personal can be a rare and wonderful discovery. Nica Trattoria, located on the Upper East Side, is just such a place. This intimate eatery has become a cherished destination for New Yorkers seeking an experience that goes beyond just a meal. It’s an immersive escape to a small, family-owned restaurant in Italy, where the atmosphere is as memorable as the food. The a-la-carte menu and the daily specials offer a delightful journey through classic Italian cuisine, prepared with a level of care and passion that is immediately evident in every dish.

The culinary philosophy at Nica Trattoria is centered on authenticity and quality. The menu features a curated selection of antipasti, pastas, and secondi that showcase the rich diversity of Italian cooking. The pasta is a particular highlight, with customers calling it some of the "best" they've ever had. Favorites include the Spaghetti carbonara, the flavorful Tagliatelle bolognese, and the celebrated Fidelini frutti di mare. One of the most talked-about dishes is their renowned gnocchi, which is described by patrons as "the best gnocchi" they've ever had. For starters, the Peperoni con acciughe and the Polenta con porcini are excellent ways to begin your meal, setting the stage for the hearty courses to follow. The "Secondi" menu offers a robust selection of meat and seafood dishes, such as the succulent Costoletta di vitello and the classic Pollo scarpariello, providing a taste of true Italian comfort food.

The experience at Nica Trattoria is elevated by its fantastic beverage and dessert options. The restaurant is known for its great wine list, featuring selections that perfectly complement the authentic flavors of the food. In addition to wine, the bar offers a selection of beer and hard liquor. The coffee is also highly praised, making for a perfect after-dinner treat. Speaking of which, the desserts are another highlight, with customers raving about their "great dessert" offerings, which often include traditional Italian sweets. The atmosphere is consistently described as casual, cozy, and romantic, making it a perfect spot for various occasions, from a solo dinner to a special date night. The most unique and cherished feature, however, is the host, who is known for his welcoming personality and for adding an unforgettable personal touch to the evening, sometimes even with a song, making every guest feel "as if you’re a guest in his home." This personalized hospitality is what truly sets Nica Trattoria apart, creating a magical dining experience that leaves patrons with full hearts and bellies.

## Location and Accessibility

Nica Trattoria is a hidden gem located at 354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028, USA, on the Upper East Side. The restaurant is situated on a quiet street, providing a charming and intimate setting away from the main avenues. Its location is a short walk from the 86th Street subway station, which services the 4, 5, and 6 lines, as well as the Q line, making it easily accessible from many parts of Manhattan. The neighborhood itself is known for its classic brownstones and sophisticated atmosphere, adding to the overall feeling of a special, local discovery.

The restaurant is mindful of accessibility, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating available. While the space is described as small and cozy, this attention to accessibility ensures that guests with mobility challenges can still enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere. The street-level entrance is designed for easy access, and the staff is noted for their attentiveness, which would undoubtedly extend to assisting guests as needed. The neighborhood is very walkable, with many shops and other attractions nearby, making Nica Trattoria a convenient and pleasant destination for a memorable dinner.

## Services Offered

Nica Trattoria provides a range of services to accommodate its diners, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, authentic experience in the restaurant's charming and cozy dining room.
• Outdoor seating: When weather permits, you can choose to dine outdoors and take in the Upper East Side ambiance.
• Takeout & Curbside pickup: For convenience, you can order your favorite dishes to go and pick them up directly from the restaurant.
• Delivery: Have your meal delivered right to your doorstep for a taste of Nica Trattoria at home.
• Reservations: Given the intimate size and popularity, reservations are required to ensure you get a table, making it easy to plan your visit in advance.
• Table Service: The restaurant offers full table service, with a staff that is renowned for its kindness and hospitality.

## Features / Highlights

Nica Trattoria is a standout due to several unique features that contribute to its celebrated reputation.

• Great Dessert: The dessert menu is highly praised, providing a delicious finale to your authentic Italian meal.
• Great Wine List: The curated selection of wines perfectly complements the menu and is a favorite among guests.
• Great Coffee: For coffee lovers, the restaurant offers high-quality coffee that is a perfect post-meal treat.
• Cozy & Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is often described as feeling like a "slice of Italy," making it ideal for a date night or a relaxing dinner.
• Unique Host: The owner and host is a major highlight, known for his welcoming personality and even for singing, adding an unforgettable personal touch to the dining experience.
• Authentic Experience: The restaurant prides itself on offering one of the most authentic Italian dining experiences in the city, making it a must-visit for connoisseurs of Italian cuisine.
• Payment: The restaurant accepts credit cards and debit cards for convenience.

## Contact Information

For reservations or inquiries, you can contact Nica Trattoria using the information below.

Address: 354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028, USA

Phone: (212) 472-5040

Mobile Phone: +1 212-472-5040

## What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Nica Trattoria is an excellent decision for anyone in New York seeking a truly special and memorable dining experience. What makes this restaurant worth choosing above others is its rare combination of authentic, high-quality food and an exceptionally warm, personal atmosphere. Unlike many city eateries, Nica Trattoria feels less like a business and more like a passion project, where every detail is meant to make you feel like a welcomed guest in a family home. The owner's personality and willingness to engage with diners, even with a song, creates a unique and unforgettable ambiance that is a true rarity in New York's competitive dining scene. This personal touch fosters a sense of community and warmth that makes customers want to return again and again.

Beyond the personal connection, the food itself is a compelling reason to choose Nica Trattoria. The menu is a love letter to Italian tradition, with standout dishes that are highly praised by critics and customers alike. The gnocchi is a must-try, often hailed as the best in the city, and the pasta dishes are prepared with a level of care and authenticity that truly makes them divine. The carefully selected wine list ensures that every meal can be perfectly paired, enhancing the flavors and providing a complete culinary experience. The cozy and romantic setting makes it an ideal spot for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet, intimate dinner. The fact that the restaurant is popular with locals speaks volumes about its quality and consistency. By choosing Nica Trattoria, you are not just getting a meal; you are getting a slice of Italy, served with a full heart and a personal touch that will leave you with a "full heart and an even fuller belly."

Nica Trattoria

354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028, USA