Pastai Restaurant Introduce
In the bustling culinary landscape of New York City, Pastai Restaurant emerges as a true gem, offering a slice of Southern Italian authenticity right in the heart of Chelsea. The name "Pastai" literally means "the pasta makers," a fitting title for a place that prides itself on crafting fresh, handmade pasta from scratch every day in an open kitchen. This commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality, local ingredients elevates the dining experience from a simple meal to a genuine culinary journey.
Pastai is more than just a place to eat; it's a celebration of Italian heritage and family tradition. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale and cozy, making it an ideal setting for a romantic dinner, a celebratory group gathering, or even a solo meal at the bar. With its great wine list, exquisite desserts, and fast, friendly service, Pastai has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike who appreciate the art and passion behind true Italian cuisine. This article will guide you through everything that makes Pastai a must-visit destination, from its convenient location to its standout dishes and unique offerings.
Pastai is perfectly located at 186 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA, in the vibrant neighborhood of Chelsea. This prime location places it within easy reach of some of the city's most popular attractions, including the High Line, and is well-served by a variety of transportation options. Guests can easily access the restaurant via several subway lines or buses, making it a convenient destination from almost any part of the city.
For those who prefer to drive, paid street parking is available in the vicinity. The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a **wheelchair accessible entrance**, **wheelchair accessible restroom**, and **wheelchair accessible seating**, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming experience for all diners. Its central location also makes it a great spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy a meal after a day of exploring the neighborhood.
Pastai provides a comprehensive and flexible range of services to cater to every kind of dining need.
Dine-in: The primary experience at Pastai is a seated, elegant meal. With its cozy and romantic atmosphere, it's perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions. Full table and counter service are available.
Outdoor Seating: On pleasant days, guests can enjoy their meal in the fresh air with the restaurant's outdoor seating area, adding a charming touch to the dining experience.
Takeout & Delivery: For those who want to enjoy Pastai's food at home, the restaurant offers both standard and **no-contact delivery** and takeout options.
Catering & Private Dining: Pastai offers **catering** services for events of all sizes. It also features a **private dining room** that is perfect for corporate gatherings, birthday parties, or other special occasions, accommodating up to 19 guests.
Pastai's appeal extends far beyond its delicious menu. Several key features contribute to its outstanding reputation.
Exceptional Atmosphere: The ambiance is often described as **casual**, **cozy**, **romantic**, and even **upscale**. It’s a space that feels both elegant and welcoming, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from a casual lunch to a romantic date night. The open kitchen and warm decor add to its charm.
Great Dessert & Coffee: The desserts, especially the **Sfinci Di Ricotta** and **Tiramisu**, are a standout highlight. The restaurant is also known for its excellent coffee, including **American Coffee**, **Espresso**, and **Cappuccino**.
Extensive Wine List: Pastai boasts a **great wine list** with a curated selection of fine wines that pair perfectly with the Southern Italian dishes. This makes it a great spot for wine enthusiasts.
Halal & Vegetarian Options: The menu is inclusive and caters to diverse dietary needs, offering a variety of **vegetarian options** and **halal food**, making it a welcoming place for everyone.
Family and LGBTQ+ Friendly: The restaurant is welcoming to all. It's considered a great spot for **families** and **groups**, with a **kids' menu** and **high chairs** available. It also proudly identifies as an **LGBTQ+ friendly** and **transgender safespace**, fostering a truly inclusive environment.
For reservations, catering inquiries, or any other information, you can contact Pastai using the details below.
Address: 186 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
Phone: (646) 688-3463
The menu at Pastai is a celebration of authentic Southern Italian flavors, with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta. Here are some dishes and categories that are particularly worth trying based on customer reviews and menu highlights:
Starters: For a truly authentic start, the **Burrata E Prosciutto** is a classic combination of creamy cheese and savory ham. The **Arancini Di Riso**, or fried rice balls, are a popular choice. For something unique, the **Polipo Scottato** (seared octopus) offers a fresh and flavorful beginning to your meal.
Homemade Pasta: The heart of Pastai's menu is its pasta. The **Reginette Al Ragu** is a top choice, featuring flat, ridged pasta in a rich meat sauce. The **Lasagna Al Forno** is also a standout, offering a classic, comforting dish. For seafood lovers, the **Tagliatelle Con Aragosta** (with lobster) is a decadent and flavorful option. The **SPAGHETTI ALLA CARBONARA** is also prepared with traditional Italian methods, making it a must-try for fans of this classic dish.
Main Courses: Beyond pasta, the main courses offer a variety of options. The **Salmone** and **NY Steak** provide excellent alternatives for those who prefer a different protein. The **Gaddina Cu Peperonta** (chicken with peppers) offers a rustic, flavorful taste of Southern Italy.
Desserts: Do not skip dessert at Pastai. The **Tiramisu** is a timeless classic, and the **Sfinci Di Ricotta** are a unique and delicious treat. The **Homemade Cheesecake Balls** and **Torta Di Cioccolato** are also highly recommended by patrons, offering a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Beverages and Catering: The restaurant offers an excellent selection of **wine**, **beer**, and **cocktails**. For non-alcoholic options, the fresh juices and San Pellegrino sodas are great choices. Additionally, if you're hosting an event, Pastai's **catering** service brings their authentic flavors directly to your home or venue, making it a perfect choice for your next celebration.
In summary, Pastai is more than a restaurant; it's a labor of love that celebrates the rich traditions of Italian cuisine. With its focus on fresh, handmade pasta, elegant yet cozy atmosphere, and an inclusive spirit, it offers a dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. It's a place where every dish tells a story, and every visit feels like a warm embrace.
Pastai Restaurant Menu
All Day Menu - Catering
- Catering $135.00
- Gift Certificate $1,000.00
All Day Menu - Starters
- Burrata E Prosciutto $19.00
Fresh burrata and prosciutto di Parma, served with beefsteak tomatoes, basil pesto, fresh basil & extra virgin olive oil.
- Crocchette Di Patate $14.00
Homemade fried & breaded potato croquettes stuffed with Fontina cheese & caramelized onions.
- Polipo Scottato $21.00
Charred octopus over fennel citrus salad, red onion, Sicilian oregano, olive in a lemon extra virgin olive oil sauce.
- Arancini Di Riso $15.00
Homemade safron risotto balls stuffed with angus beef and pea ragù served over a San Marzano tomato sauce.
All Day Menu - Homemade Pasta and Sauces to Cook at Home
- Torchio $4.00
One portion of swirled pastai "TORCHIO" made out of semolina flour. (about 110 grams of pasta)
- Lemon Tagliatelle $6.00
One portion of lemon tagliatelle made out of semolina flour with lemon zest. (about 110 grams of pasta)
- Bucatini $4.00
One portion of thick hollow spaghetti made out of Semolina flour. (about 110 grams)
All Day Menu - House-Made Desserts
- Sfinci Di Ricotta $15.00
Three pieces of grandma's Ricotta doughnuts, rolled in cinnamon sugar and filled with orange-vanilla pastry cream.
- Tiramisu $15.00
Lady fingers soaked in espresso, layered with whipped mascarpone cream and cocoa.
- Homemade Cheesecake Balls $15.00
Homemade cheesecake balls rolled with salty cookie crust, candied fennel and strawberry compote.
- Torta Di Cioccolato $15.00
Warm flourless mocha cake, vanilla gelato and warm chocolate sauce.
All Day Menu - Main Courses
- RISOTTO AL NIVURO DI SICCIA $34.00
Squid ink risotto with, broccoli rabe, shrimp, bay scallops and sundried tomatoes
- Salmone $36.00
Seared salmon filet, creamed spinach, olive gremolata
- NY Steak $42.00
NY steak with arugula salad and balsamic glaze
- Gaddina Cu Peperonta $34.00
Roasted Half Chicken, Mixed Vegetables In A Mushroom Marsala Sauce
All Day Menu - Bites Appetizers
- Olive Fritte $12.00
Fried, breaded Castelvetrano olives stuffed with Pecorino cheese.
- Affettati Misti $28.00
A board of assorted Italian cured meats, served with marinated olives.
- 3 Antipasti $28.00
- Formaggi $25.00
Cheese board with Italian Sheep's Milk, Cow's Milk and Goat's Milk cheeses and Sicilian honey.
- Polipo Con Patate $21.00
Charred octopus over chickpea puree, black squid ink sugo & roasted grape tomatoes, finished with toasted crumbled almonds
- Arancini Di Riso $15.00
Saffron risotto balls stuffed with a beef-pea ragu and soft Pecorino cheese.
- 1 Antipasti $10.00
- Burrata E Prosciutto $21.00
Fresh burrata and prosciutto di Parma served with beefsteak tomatoes, basil pesto, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil.
All Day Menu - Beverages
- Hot Tea $4.00
- Cranberry Juice $5.00
- American Coffee $3.50
- Cappuccino $5.00
- Apple Juice $5.00
- Lurisia Sparkling Water $8.00
750ml.
- Double Espresso $5.50
- Lurisia Still Water $8.00
750 ml.
- Matcha Zest $7.00
Ground organic matcha, fresh mint, fresh lemon juice served over ice.
- Espresso Macchiato $5.00
- San Pellegrino Aranciata $5.00
- San Pellegrino Limonata $5.00
All Day Menu - Panini
- Verdure Grigliate Panini $19.00
Fried eggplants, roasted peppers, pesto, tomatoes, fresh basil, oregano & extra virgin olive oil
- BRESAOLA $23.00
Thinly sliced air cured beef, artichokes, arugula, tomatoes and mozzarella
- Prosciutto San Daniele Panini $24.00
Prosciutto di parma, arugula, tomato, Buffalo Mozzarella and extra virgin olive oil. Served with a small arugula and red onion salad.
All Day Menu - Pasta Fatta in Casa
- BUCATINI CON BROCCOLI $24.00
Thick hollow spaghetti with cauliflower-saffron ragù, pine nuts, pecorino, raisin & topped with toasted breadcrumbs
- Ravioli Di Ricotta $23.00
Ravioli stuffed with mushrooms, ricotta cheese in a marina sauce
- Tagliatelle Con Aragosta $32.00
Lemon tagliatelle with lobster, spinach and crispy artichokes in a white wine sauce.
- Bucatini Con Le Sarde $25.00
Thick hollow spaghetti with fresh sardines, fennel, tomatoes, brandy-soaked raisins, pine nuts and breadcrumbs.
- Lasagna Al Forno $24.00
Lasagna with a short rib ragu, Bechamel, Ricotta and broccoli rabe.
- Reginette Al Ragu $26.00
Long curly pasta with a short rib ragu, arugula and grated Sicilian Pecorino cheese.
- Paccheri Alla Genovese $25.00
Paccheri pasta with a slow-cooked, 8-hour braised sweet onion and flank steak ragu.
- GARGANELLI Con Burrata $22.00
GARGANELLI pasta with burrata, broccoli rabe pesto and cherry tomatoes.
- SPAGHETTI ALLA CARBONARA $22.00
Spaghetti with pancetta, garlic, organic eggs and pecorino Romano
All Day Menu - Salad
- Insalata Di Bietole $15.00
Roasted beet, goat cheese, Sicilian honey, freeze and walnuts in s balsamic dressing
- NSALATA DI CALAMARI $19.00
Calamari tossed with pesto, on a bed of braised red cabbage & frisée, with capers & caramelized onions
- Cetriolo Feta E Pomodoro $15.00
Cucumbers, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, feta, gaeta olives, red onions, Sicilian oregano - white balsamic vinaigrette
- Rucola Cu Pinnolo $15.00
Arugula, radicchio, endive, pine nuts, Parmigiano & balsamic vinaigrette.
Pastai Restaurant Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Breakfast
- 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
- Halal food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Salad bar
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid street parking
Pastai Restaurant Photos










Pastai Restaurant Location
Pastai Restaurant Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We booked the chef's table and loved every minute of it. What a great little spot for dinner. The Italian chefs Luigi & Ricardo were very interesting and we had fun talking to them. The food was delicious, as was the wine. Highly recommend this spot in Amsterdam!
May 26 · Marina Larenz-JurchenWe had an amazing time at Pastai, such an elegant spot, Mo at the bar really took care of us, and the food was super delicious. The fried artichoke was almost like a vegetarian calamari. I had the Bucatini Con Cavolfior and really loved it, my boyfriend had the ravioli which I shamelessly stole a bite. I wasn’t going to get dessert but got talked into it, and SO glad I did—the Parmesan crème brûlée was to die for, and I also stole a bite of my boyfriend’s flowerless cake and ice cream, which was also super tasty. I almost ate too much but no regrets 😂 We will have to go back soon and try a few more new things! As a vegetarian, Pastai has a bunch of really good options and a great balance on the menu.
November 01 · Emilie WilliamsService and atmosphere was up to standard for a place like this. The lobster pasta was good as well, but nothing special or deserving of 5 stars. Maybe other dishes are, but that’s all I tried during restaurant week.
August 18 · Walid DaheurThis restaurant is so cute! It’s very neighborhoody and cozy and it’s a great option for a date night! Their pasta is amazing and they have a good wine selection too. We went there around 8pm on a Friday and we had a reservation, which I recommend cuz the place was at capacity (there might have been one or two other open tables). I highly recommend this spot if you live in Chelsea
October 22 · Martina RusevaFavorite neighborhood spot in Chelsea. Everything on the menu is consistently delicious! So many Italian restaurants in NYC are overhyped and hidden gems like this are overlooked but it’s definitely worth going to.
August 22 · Shannon Pollack
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