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Nonna Dora's ico

Nonna Dora's
- 606 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016

Italian restaurant ★4.0 (203)·$50–100

606 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

4.0
The food is decent, but somewhat overpriced. The service was prompt and attentive. You will need to select from their 3- or 5-course tasting menu.The portions are quite small — especially if you’re ordering salads for appetizers. The flavors are somewhat underwhelming.For our dinner, we ordered meatballs and seafood salad for appetizers; squid linguine with clams and shrimp mezzelune for the main course; and panna cotta for dessert.The meatballs were my least favorite dish. The ground beef was quite dry, bland — and just boring. The mince needed cumin, garlic, and onions, IMO. The marinara sauce was extremely underwhelming. It tasted like generic canned marinara sauce. It certainly didn’t taste like an Italian grandma’s slowly simmered Sunday sauce — or something that any self-respecting Nonna would permit to be served at the table. I sorely regret not getting the eggplant appetizer — which looked amazing.The shiitake mushrooms on top of the shrimp ravioli were sad and flavorless. They lacked the delicious, umani flavor characteristic of shiitakes. I’m guessing they used frozen mushrooms — and didn’t sauté them properly. I say this as someone who regularly cooks with fresh shiitakes — and who once made the tragic mistake of using frozen. As a moderately proficient home cook, I could have easily prepared something better — so maybe I’m more critical than the average reviewer. Still, this is shameful quality for any decent restaurant. It’s a very small detail — but it’s what makes a meal special and exciting.The restaurant itself is located in a very modest space, on the first floor of an apartment building. It’s easy to miss. The ambiance felt like something in a fast-casual chain restaurant — rather than in an Italian grandmother’s kitchen. Everything felt industrial and impersonal — and somehow unloved. Ironically, it’s right next door to a Chipotle.On the positive side, our waitress was friendly and helpful. The restaurant was clean and quiet. The pasta was quite good. It’s made-from-scratch — and there were lots of gluten-free options. It was bouncy, chewy, and flavorful — and everything that you would expect from a Nonna’s homemade pasta.Overall, the food wasn’t bad. The shrimp mezzelune and the panna cotta were my favorite dishes. The ravioli pasta and shrimp filling were very good. The fruit compote and vanilla custard were absolutely delightful — although the serving was tragically minuscule. (I considered getting seconds.)It’s probably best to come during lunch — when you can personally observe Nonna Dora making the pasta. Perhaps the quality of the food is better during lunch, when Nonna is carefully watching — and standing at the ready with her rolling pin.It’s 3/5 stars for me — it’s definitely not bad — but not anything special either. Instead of Nonna, it looks like Cousin Vinny was perhaps doing the cooking that evening.The quality of the food probably depends upon who’s cooking — and whether Nonna is watching. - J.H. Miretskay
Nonna Dora's Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$50–100 per person Reported by 203 people$20–30$30–50$50–100$100+

Nonna Dora's Introduce

Nestled in the heart of Kips Bay, Nonna Dora's is a culinary gem that brings the authentic flavors of Italy's Puglia region to the heart of New York City. This Italian restaurant is a true testament to tradition, with a unique story centered around its namesake, Nonna Dora, who has been hand-making pasta for decades. The restaurant’s atmosphere strikes a beautiful balance between cozy, romantic, and trendy, creating a welcoming and sophisticated space for a memorable dining experience. Unlike a traditional fast-casual spot, Nonna Dora’s offers a more focused and intentional menu, encouraging guests to savor each dish. The concept is built around fresh, handmade pasta, a rarity in today’s dining scene, and the quality is evident in every bite. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a place where food is made with love and a deep respect for culinary heritage. While some might find the space a bit modest, its clean, quiet, and well-maintained ambiance adds to its charm, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Nonna Dora’s is more than just a place to eat; it's a place to experience a slice of Italian culture and tradition. The restaurant serves as a tribute to Nonna Dora's dedication to her craft, with many dishes inspired by her family recipes. The focus is on quality over quantity, with a carefully curated menu of Antipasti, handmade pasta, and Dolci that highlights the best of Italian cuisine. This commitment to authenticity is what draws a loyal following of locals and a steady stream of tourists seeking a genuine Italian dining experience. The experience here is about more than just the meal; it's about connecting with a tradition that has been passed down through generations, making it a truly special and heartfelt place to dine in the city.

Nonna Dora's is conveniently located at 606 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA. Situated in the vibrant Kips Bay neighborhood, its location makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The restaurant is tucked away on the first floor of an apartment building, and while it might be easy to miss, its proximity to major avenues and public transportation makes it a convenient destination. For those arriving by car, paid street parking is available, which is a key advantage in a dense urban area like New York. The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is evident with its wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all guests can dine comfortably. Being located in a bustling area means it's a great spot for a dinner before an evening out or a quick, elegant meal during the day. Its proximity to other establishments and residential buildings in Kips Bay makes it a natural gathering spot for a variety of patrons. The central location in Midtown Manhattan allows for easy access from different parts of the city. While some reviews mention its understated exterior, its reputation for quality food and service makes it a destination worth seeking out. The location is not just a point on a map; it's a part of the experience, offering a quiet and cozy retreat from the surrounding urban energy. The restaurant’s accessibility and location are a testament to its design as a neighborhood gem, easily reached but feeling a world away once you step inside. This blend of urban convenience and intimate atmosphere is a significant part of what makes Nonna Dora’s so appealing to a wide range of diners, from locals to those exploring the city for the first time.

Nonna Dora's offers a selection of services designed to provide a flexible and high-quality dining experience. These services ensure that guests can enjoy their authentic Italian cuisine in the way that best suits their needs and preferences.

  • Delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, Nonna Dora’s provides a reliable delivery service. This is a great option for a cozy night in, allowing you to enjoy their handmade pasta and other dishes without leaving your residence.
  • Takeout: If you're on the go and want to pick up your meal, the takeout service is a convenient choice. You can call ahead or place an order and collect it at your leisure, which is ideal for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
  • Dine-in: The primary service offered is the dine-in experience, which is highly recommended to fully appreciate the atmosphere and quality of the food. With table service, guests can relax and enjoy a full meal in the cozy and romantic setting.
  • Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations and, due to its popularity, recommends making them, especially for dinner. This ensures a seamless experience and a guaranteed table for your group, which is particularly useful for planning special occasions.
  • Table Service: The staff provides attentive and friendly table service. As highlighted in customer reviews, the waitstaff is helpful and knowledgeable, guiding guests through the menu and making the dining experience feel personal and welcoming.

The combination of these services caters to a wide array of dining preferences, from the convenience of a delivered meal to the luxury of a planned, sit-down dinner. The option to make a reservation is a key feature that helps manage the flow of customers and ensures a high-quality experience for everyone. The attentive table service is a crucial part of what makes the restaurant special, with staff members often going above and beyond to make a meal memorable. This holistic approach to service, combining modern convenience with traditional hospitality, is a significant reason why Nonna Dora’s has become a beloved spot in the community. The restaurant's ability to provide these different services seamlessly speaks to its professionalism and customer-first approach. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal, Nonna Dora’s has an option for you, making it a versatile and reliable choice for any occasion. The focus on providing a consistently high-quality experience, regardless of the service option, is a testament to their commitment to excellence and to the legacy of Nonna Dora herself.

Nonna Dora's boasts several highlights that make it a compelling choice for Italian cuisine in New York. These features are what contribute to its unique character and positive reputation among local diners.

  • Authentic Handmade Pasta: This is the restaurant’s most significant highlight. The pasta is handmade daily by Nonna Dora herself, a tradition that ensures incredible texture, flavor, and authenticity. The pasta is bouncy, chewy, and flavorful, and there are also gluten-free options available. This dedication to craft is a rarity and a major draw.
  • Great Wine List: Nonna Dora's offers an excellent selection of wines, carefully chosen to complement the menu. The wine list includes a variety of options that cater to different tastes and pair well with the rich flavors of the Italian dishes.
  • Great Dessert: The dessert menu is highly praised, with options like the Tiramisu and Panna Cotta being particular favorites. These traditional Italian sweets are a perfect end to the meal, with rich flavors and high-quality ingredients.
  • Serves Local Specialty: The restaurant serves dishes inspired by the Puglia region, Nonna Dora’s home. This focus on a specific local specialty provides a genuine and unique culinary experience that sets it apart from more generic Italian restaurants.
  • Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a date night or a special celebration. The quiet and clean environment enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to focus on the company and the food.
  • Attentive and Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the fast and attentive service. The staff is known for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, which adds to the overall positive dining experience.
  • Variety of Offerings: The menu includes a wide range of offerings, from Antipasti and handmade pasta to a selection of alcohol, beer, and cocktails. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring that a variety of dietary needs can be met.

These features collectively create a dining experience that is both authentic and enjoyable. The restaurant's commitment to using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, particularly in its handmade pasta, is its defining characteristic. The ambiance, combined with the knowledgeable and friendly staff, ensures that every visit is a pleasant one. The availability of a great wine list and delicious desserts further elevates the experience, making it a destination for a full, well-rounded meal. Nonna Dora’s stands out by focusing on what truly matters: quality ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a welcoming environment. It’s a place where the love for food is palpable, and this is what makes it a must-visit spot in New York for anyone who appreciates genuine Italian cuisine.

For those planning to visit or contact Nonna Dora's, here is the essential information:

Address: 606 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Phone: (917) 261-6544

Mobile Phone: +1 917-261-6544

The restaurant's address places it in the Kips Bay neighborhood of Manhattan, a well-trafficked and easily accessible area. Given its popularity and the recommendation for dinner reservations, it is a great idea to call ahead to secure a table, especially on weekends. The provided phone numbers offer a direct line to the restaurant, making it easy to inquire about availability, ask questions about the menu, or make a reservation. The dual phone numbers, including a mobile number, provide an additional layer of convenience for customers trying to get in touch. For those using a GPS or mapping application, the address is straightforward and will lead you directly to the location. It is important to note that the restaurant's entrance is located on the first floor of an apartment building, which is helpful to know when searching for the spot. While paid street parking is available, it is always best to plan ahead in a busy city like New York. This comprehensive contact information ensures that prospective diners have all the necessary details to plan a seamless and enjoyable visit to Nonna Dora's. The accuracy and public availability of this information are crucial for a positive customer experience, from the moment they decide to visit to the time they finish their meal. Nonna Dora's makes it easy to connect and plan a visit, reflecting their overall commitment to customer care and accessibility.

Nonna Dora's is an excellent choice for anyone in New York seeking an authentic and high-quality Italian dining experience. What makes it truly worth choosing is its unwavering dedication to the craft of handmade pasta. The presence of Nonna Dora herself, who makes the pasta daily, is a unique and genuine feature that sets this restaurant apart. This isn't a marketing gimmick; it's a living tradition that you can taste in every single dish. While some reviews may mention small portions or prices, the focus here is on the quality and authenticity of the food, not on a generic, all-you-can-eat model. The handmade pasta, whether it's the Tagliatelle or the Mezzelune, is the star of the show and provides a truly special and flavorful experience. The restaurant also excels in its other offerings, from the delectable Antipasti like the fried calamari and Panzerotti to the absolutely delightful desserts, with the Panna Cotta and Tiramisu being particular standouts. The attentive and friendly service, as praised by numerous customers, adds a layer of warmth and hospitality that makes the dining experience feel personal and cared for. The cozy, romantic, and trendy ambiance is perfect for a special occasion or a quiet, intimate dinner, creating a perfect backdrop for the exceptional food. The fact that the restaurant offers a variety of service options—dine-in, takeout, and delivery—further adds to its appeal, catering to different lifestyles. For a true taste of Puglia and a dining experience rooted in tradition and passion, Nonna Dora's is the clear choice. It’s a place where you can taste the love and care put into every dish, making it a must-visit destination for any Italian food lover in the city. The overall quality and authenticity make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable and delicious meal.

Nonna Dora's Menu

  • Dora's Handmade Pasta

  • Orecchiette $32.00

    in a rabbit ragu

  • Garganelli $30.00

    Bolognese sauce

  • Spaghetti Neri $34.00

    squid ink pasta with anchovy, bottarga & bread crumbs

  • Tagliatelle $34.00

    with mushrooms & salsa tartufata

  • Rigatoni $32.00

    alla Carbonara

  • Tonnarelli $34.00

    with scallops & green onions, in a lobster reduction

  • Gnocchi $30.00

    with a basil & pine nut pesto

  • Dora's Lasagna $32.00

    with meat sauce & bechamel

  • Ceci E Tria $28.00

    Fresh & fried pasta with chickpeas, tomato & pecorino

  • Ravioli Per Olivia $30.00

    ricotta-filled, in a Sicilian pistachio sauce

  • Pappardelle $32.00

    with wild boar ragu

  • Mezzelune $32.00

    filled with shrimp & ricotta, with shiitake mushrooms & thyme

  • Malloreddus $32.00

    saffron-seasoned, with sausage & tomato

  • Paglia E Fieno $32.00

    'Straw & Hay' with Foggia tomatoes & fresh ricotta di bufala

  • Linguine $34.00

    with local clams, white wine & parsley

  • Spaghetti $32.00

    with Dora's Sunday meatballs & sauce

  • Maccheroncini Grano Arso $32.00

    burnt wheat pasta with duck confit, peas & pea shoots

  • Cappelletti $30.00

    filled with ricotta di bufala, with tomatoes & guanciale

  • Cavatelli $28.00

    with broccoli rabe & toasted almonds

  • Dolci

  • Tiramisu $12.00

    Dora's classic recipe

  • Torta Di Ricotta $12.00

    Dora's ricotta cheesecake

  • Semifreddo $12.00

    'Half-frozen' chocolate mousse with caramelized hazelnuts

  • Panzerotti Dolci $12.00

    Baby calzones filled with nutella

  • Panna Cotta $12.00

    Vanilla bean custard with berry compote

  • Antipasti

  • Polpette $20.00

    Dora's Sunday meatballs in sauce

  • Barbabietole $20.00

    Roasted beet salad with ricotta & chickpeas

  • Fave E Cicoria $18.00

    Dried fava bean puree with braised greens

  • Melanzana $20.00

    Baked eggplant Parmigiana

  • Burrata $22.00

    Creamy Pugliese mozzarella with Dora's giardiniera

  • Rucola $18.00

    Arugula salad with confit tomatoes, in a lemon vinaigrette

  • Cavolo $18.00

    Baby kale salad with pecorino & pine nuts

  • Calamari Fritti $20.00

    Cirspy-fried squid with tomato sauce

  • Panzerotti $18.00

    Baby calzones filled with San Marzano tomato & mozzarella

  • Pulpo $22.00

    Octopus salad with shaved fennel, white beans & black olives

  • Piatto Emiliano $22.00

    Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano

Nonna Dora's Details

  • Service options

  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great dessert
  • Great wine list
  • Serves local specialty
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Hard liquor
  • Small plates
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Planning

  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Parking

  • Paid street parking
  • Parking

Nonna Dora's Photos

Nonna Dora's Picture 1Nonna Dora's Picture 2Nonna Dora's Picture 3Nonna Dora's Picture 4Nonna Dora's Picture 5Nonna Dora's Picture 6Nonna Dora's Picture 7Nonna Dora's Picture 8Nonna Dora's Picture 9Nonna Dora's Picture 10

Nonna Dora's Location

Nonna Dora's

606 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Nonna Dora's Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 416 user reviews.

negronirabbit raguorecchietteboar ragupappardellefresh pastapanzerottitasting menumalloredduscourse meal

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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