Rafele Introduce
For those searching for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine right in the heart of New York City, look no further than Rafele. Nestled in the charming and historic West Village, this restaurant has become a local favorite for its dedication to traditional Italian flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's the kind of place that feels both upscale and comfortably casual, making it the perfect setting for a variety of occasions—from a romantic date night to a lively dinner with friends. Rafele prides itself on offering a genuine culinary experience that transports diners straight to Italy with every bite. The menu is a thoughtful curation of classic and contemporary dishes, all prepared with the highest quality ingredients. Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting, Rafele provides a memorable dining experience that celebrates the very best of Italian gastronomy in one of Manhattan's most beloved neighborhoods. The restaurant's reputation for exceptional food and a welcoming environment has made it a go-to spot for those seeking an authentic and satisfying Italian meal in a city filled with countless dining options.
The culinary journey at Rafele begins with a commitment to fresh, homemade ingredients. Many patrons rave about the house-made pasta, which is a centerpiece of the menu. From the rich and creamy Pappardelle Bolognese to the delicate Ravioli Di Spinaci, each pasta dish is a testament to traditional techniques and bold flavors. But the menu extends far beyond pasta. The Antipasti selection offers a wonderful start, with options like the popular FRIED CALAMARI and the rich BURRATA. For those with a taste for something more substantial, the Entrées feature standout dishes such as the tender Veal Milanese and the flavorful Branzino Alla Griglia. The commitment to quality is evident in every dish, ensuring a dining experience that feels both authentic and special. The restaurant's dedication to crafting a diverse and satisfying menu is what keeps patrons coming back time and time again. It’s a place where you can explore a wide range of Italian culinary traditions, all executed with a professional and passionate touch.
Location and Accessibility
Rafele is conveniently located at 29 A 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014, USA. Its prime location in the heart of the West Village makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes within walking distance. This makes getting to the restaurant a breeze, no matter where you are in the city. For those with mobility needs, Rafele is committed to providing a comfortable dining experience. The establishment features a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone can enjoy a meal at Rafele without any issues. The restaurant’s placement on a prominent street also makes it easy to find, adding to the convenience. Its location in one of New York's most iconic and vibrant neighborhoods enhances the overall dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious meal before or after exploring the many attractions and unique shops the area has to offer. The combination of a fantastic location and excellent accessibility makes Rafele a standout choice for dining in the West Village.
Services Offered
Rafele provides a variety of services to accommodate every guest's needs and preferences. Their flexible approach ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience, whether you're dining in or taking your meal to go. The restaurant offers a wide range of options to suit any plan or schedule. Some of the notable services include:
- Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service, sit-down meal in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Takeout: Conveniently order your favorite dishes to enjoy at home.
- Delivery: Get delicious Italian food delivered right to your door.
- Curbside pickup: A quick and easy way to collect your order without having to go inside.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations and they are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner, especially during peak hours.
- Table service: Professional and attentive staff provide a high-quality dining experience.
- Outdoor seating: When the weather is nice, enjoy your meal on the pleasant patio. They also allow dogs outside in the outdoor seating area.
Features / Highlights
Rafele is celebrated for several standout features that set it apart from other Italian restaurants in the city. These highlights contribute to the exceptional reputation and overall positive dining experience for all who visit. The combination of high-quality offerings and a charming atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot. Key highlights include:
- Great cocktails, coffee, and wine list: The bar offers a wide selection of expertly crafted cocktails, a great coffee selection for post-dinner enjoyment, and an extensive wine list featuring Italian and international bottles that perfectly complement the menu.
- Fast service: Patrons consistently praise the speed and efficiency of the staff, ensuring a pleasant and timely dining experience.
- Great dessert: The dessert menu, or DOLCI, is a highlight, with classic Italian treats like Tiramisu` and Tortino Al Cioccolato that provide the perfect ending to a meal.
- Atmosphere: The ambiance is often described as casual, cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, making it a versatile venue for any occasion.
- Popular for: Rafele is a great choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. It's also a popular spot for both groups and tourists.
- Amenities: The restaurant features an onsite bar and restroom. They also provide high chairs for children.
- Offerings: The menu is expansive, including a full bar with alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine. It also caters to various dietary needs with healthy options, organic dishes, and vegetarian options. Other offerings include comfort food, late-night food, and small plates.
- Payment options: The restaurant accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, for added convenience.
Contact Information
To make a reservation or inquire about the menu, you can contact Rafele directly. It is always a good idea to call ahead, especially for larger groups or during busy times, to ensure you get a table. The friendly staff will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have. The restaurant is located at 29 A 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014, USA. You can reach them by phone at (212) 242-1999.
What is worth choosing
Choosing Rafele for your next meal is a decision you won't regret. The restaurant's appeal lies in its authentic approach to Italian cooking, combined with a welcoming and stylish environment. Based on customer feedback, the fried calamari is a standout appetizer that comes highly recommended, with one reviewer calling it "the best we had ever had." The seafood pasta, with its fresh ingredients and rich flavors, is another popular choice. The menu's dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from the savory Pork Chops to the classic Pappardelle Bolognese. One patron noted that the experience "is what American-Italian in New York is all about," praising the quality of all their dishes and the excellent service. This sentiment captures the essence of Rafele—a place where traditional Italian recipes are brought to life with a modern sensibility. The staff's commitment to fast service and a positive dining experience further enhances the meal, making you feel right at home. Whether you are craving a perfect pizza, a classic pasta dish, or a hearty entrée, Rafele offers something for every palate. The combination of its convenient West Village location, diverse menu, and exceptional service makes it a top choice for anyone seeking a memorable Italian dining experience in New York City.
Rafele Menu
Insalate
- Insalata Di Carciofi $18.00
Shaved artichokes, grana padano, lemon, extra virgin olive oil.
- CAESAR SALAD $18.00
ROMAINE, GRANA PADANO WITH A LIGHT SAUCE CAESAR DRESSING TOPPED WITH CROUTONS
- Rughetta $18.00
Arugula, crispy pancetta, shaved parmesan, fennel, light balsamic dressing
- Puntarelle $18.00
Roman chicory, fennel and light anchovies dressing
- Insalata Riccia $14.00
Frisee, baby kale, poached pears, goat cheese, shallot vinaigrette.
- Insalata Del Mercato $16.00
Market greens, red onions, radish, lemon and extra virgin olive oil.
- Cavolfiore $16.00
Roasted cauliflower, caramelized onion, black currants, pine nuts, breadcrumbs.
- Puntarelle Alla Romana $14.00
Sweet Italian chicory, light anchovy dressing.
Pizza
- Pizza Pepperoni $20.00
House made tomato sauce, mozzarella, and sliced pepperoni
- Margherita $18.00
Fior di latte mozzarella, house tomato sauce, basil.
- Schiacciata $17.00
Pizza stuffed with mortadella, robiola cheese, truffle oil
- Pizza Zucchini $18.00
Zucchini, buffalo ricotta, caramelized onion
- Marinara $17.00
House tomato sauce, garlic, oregano.
- Bianca $17.00
Burrata, artichokes, basil, extra-virgin olive oil.
- Salsiccia E Broccoli Rab $20.00
Sausage, broccoli rabe, chili flakes
- Salsiccia E Broccoli Rabe $16.00
Sausage, broccoli rabe, chili flakes.
- Funghi E Fontina $20.00
Mix of mushrooms, fontina cheese, truffle oil.
- Rafele $22.00
Prosciutto di Parma, buffalo mozzarella, arugula, Grana Padano.
Entrées
- Pork Chops $34.00
Lightly pan seared pork chop, white wine sauce served with escarole
- Zuppa Di Pesce $36.00
Fish stew, house tomato sauce, garlic, peperoncino.
- Veal Milanese $48.00
Lightly breaded pan roasted veal chop served with an arugula salad with yellow cherry tomatoes in a lemon vinaigrette
- Bistecca Per Due 22 Oz $105.00
Grass-fed steak for two braised in our brick oven, served with pan seared spinach and roasted potatoes
- Lamb Chops $42.00
Grilled New Zealand baby lamb chops, broccoli rabe, roasted potato
- FRITTO MISTO $26.00
Fried Calamari, shrimp, zucchini, sage, lemon, fennel
- Pollo Alla Milanese $28.00
Lighlty breaded pan roasted chicken breast served with a mixed green salad
- Galletto Arrosto $30.00
Roasted organic chicken, Italian herbs, sauteed spinach and roasted carrots
- Branzino Alla Griglia $34.00
Grilled branzino, Italian herbs, white wine, rosemary potatoes, spinach.
- Stinco Di Maiale $38.00
Slow braised pork shank, carrots, onion, celery, red wine reduction, polenta
- Pollo Alla Parmigiana $30.00
Lightly breaded chicken breast, melted mozzarella, house tomato sauce
- Tagliata Di Manzo $42.00
Grilled grass-fed new York strip loin, salsa verde, arugula, shaved grana padano.
Sides
- Escarole $8.00
Sautéed escarole with cannellini beans.
- Spinaci $10.00
Pan seared spinach, garlic, olive oil.
- Beets $8.00
Roasted beets, fontina melt.
- Brussel Sprouts $10.00
Brick-oven roasted, parmesan crust.
- Finocchio Brasato $10.00
Roasted fennel, garlic, olive oil
- Asparagus $10.00
Pan seared asparagus
- Patate $10.00
Roasted with rosemary, sea salt.
- Friarielli $10.00
Broccoli rabe, peperoncino, black olives.
House-Made Pasta
- Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe $23.00
tonnarelli, pecorino Romano, black pepper, roman style.
- Tagliolini Ai Funghi $24.00
Tagliolini, mixed mushrooms, truffle paté, grana padano.
- Orecchiette Friarielli $24.00
Orecchiette pasta with sausage and broccoli rabe
- Garganelli Primavera $24.00
Garganelli, zucchini, peas, string beans, basil, cherry tomato in garlic and olive oil
- Cavatelli $19.00
Cavatelli, sausage, broccoli rabe, garlic, olive oil, calabrian chili.
- Spaghetti Frutti Di Mare $28.00
Spaghetti, shrimp, clams, scallops, cherry tomatoes.
- Spaghetti Vongole Posillipo $28.00
Linguine, clams, cherry tomato sauce
- RAVIOLI DI PISELLI $26.00
Ravioli filled with peas, buffalo ricotta, mint, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, crispy prosciutto in a leek and pea puree
- Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina $24.00
Gnocchi, melted buffalo mozzarella, house tomato sauce, basil, grana padano.
- Spaghetti Pomodoro $22.00
Spaghetti, house tomato sauce, garlic, basil, olive oil.
- FETTUCCINE ASPARAGI $24.00
Fettuccine, asparagus, leeks, pecorino romano
- Ravioli Di Spinaci $25.00
Spinach and buffalo ricotta ravioli, house tomato sauce, basil.
- Pappardelle Bolognese $25.00
Ribbon pasta, slowly braised pork and beef ragu, in a classic bolognese sauce
- Paccheri Genovese $28.00
- Spaghetti Carbonara $24.00
- Paccheri All' Amatriciana $25.00
Paccheri, pork cheek, tomato sauce, pecorino cheese.
DOLCI
- Tiramisu` $14.00
Classic ladyfingers,Mascarpone, Espresso
- Torta Ricotta $14.00
Italian Style Cheesecake
- Tortino Al Cioccolato $14.00
Chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream and raspberry coulis
Antipasti
- ZUCCHINI BLOSSOM $18.00
- Carciofi $18.00
Crispy fried artichokes, grana padano, parsley.
- BURRATA $19.00
Burrata, marinated cherry tomato, basil, oregano, evoo
- CAPRESE $19.00
Heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, oregano, basil
- Melanzana $18.00
Layers of eggplant, buffalo mozzarella, house tomato sauce, grana padano, basil.
- Romeo's Favorite (Schiacciata) $22.00
Pizza stuffed with arugula, prosciutto, mozzarella, olive oil, peperoncino.
- CRAB CAKE $24.00
BAKED CRAB CAKE, LIGHTLY SPICED REMOULADED SAUCE
- Polpo Alla Griglia $18.00
Grilled octopus, roasted fennel
- Polpettine $18.00
Pan seared veal and beef meatballs, house tomato sauce.
- Schiacciata $19.00
Pizza stuffed with mortadella, robiola cheese, truffle oil.
- Montanara $16.00
Fried small pizzas, house tomato sauce, grana padano, basil.
- FRIED CALAMARI $18.00
Fried calamari, shrimp, zucchini, fennel, sage and lemon.
- SHRIMPS $20.00
- Piatto Di Formaggi E Salumi $24.00
Platter of assorted cheese and cured meats.
- Gnocco Fritto $19.00
24-month black label prosciutto di Parma with fried dough.
- Mozzarella $25.00
Buffalo mozzarella with 24month black label Prosciutto di Parma
- Gamberoni $17.00
Grilled prawns, arugula, lemon olive oil dressing.
- Arancini $16.00
Lightly fried four cheese risotto balls.
Rafele Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Rafele Photos










Rafele Location
Rafele Reviews
cheesecakeappetizerbranzinocacio e pepebartenderwine listvillagesolidpappardellerestaurant week
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Best fried calamari we had ever had. Service was great. Had the seafood pasta with scallops, clams, and shrimp, and it was very good, but could have used some kind of brightness. I thought there would be more tomatoes to add to the acidity. Overall we thoroughly enjoyed dinner.
April 13 · TThis is what American-Italian in New York is all about. Enjoyed all of our dishes and the service was great. Would recommend.
August 16 · Kurtis J. SamcheeGreat spot in the west village for a nice dinner. The food was decent, the service polite and prompt. About halfway through our meal, we noticed a furry little friend scurrying around under the empty tables. Understandably, it’s New York City, so there are bound to be mice in every corner and crevice. We informed our server of the situation without alerting other patrons, and the incident was handled professionally and efficiently. But unfortunately, we had lost our appetite.Overall, “mice in a kitchen should only be kept in the movie Ratatouille, not Rafele.” - My Date
August 21 · Saahil DuttaAfter looking around NYC for an Italian restaurant with gluten free pasta options, we happened upon Rafele. I was surprised that they offered three different gluten free noodle options. The meal was delicious and I appreciated not having to eat the classic gluten free penne noodle. Pictured is the bolognese with paccheri pasta.
July 11 · Emory MolineI’ve lived in Manhattan for 12 years+ now and this is my absolute favorite Italian restaurant. We first visited about 4-5 years ago and it’s become the regular Italian spot for girls night and when visitors are in town. We only sit outside because the patio is so pretty and charming (in the cooler months they have heat lamps, it is enclosed) and the staff is always so lovely. The food is amazing. It’s usually lively but never too busy. I can’t recommend this restaurant more.
November 12 · Amanda M.
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