Amarena

- 151 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028

Nestled on a charming block of the Upper East Side, Amarena is a delightful Italian restaurant that transports its guests directly to Italy. Located at 151 E 82nd St, this spot is a true find for anyone in New York seeking a dining experience that feels both authentic and modern. It is an establishment that proudly serves food that is described as "so fresh, so tasty & so delicate," with portion sizes that feel genuine to the Italian culinary tradition, rather than the oversized American norm. This attention to detail and a commitment to authenticity are what set Amarena apart.

Amarena's atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between cozy and trendy, making it an ideal setting for a variety of occasions. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a solo meal, the ambiance is inviting and sophisticated. While it is a popular spot, attracting a crowd that includes many tourists, the restaurant's quality remains steadfast. It is the kind of place where a reservation for dinner is recommended, a clear sign of its high demand and loyal following. The staff works diligently to provide attentive table service, ensuring a memorable and seamless dining journey from start to finish.

Beyond the main dishes, the restaurant is highlighted for its impressive beverage program, including a great wine list and a selection of expertly crafted cocktails. The dessert menu is also a crowd-pleaser, offering an array of sweet endings that are as authentic as the main courses. Amarena is not just a place to eat; it's a destination for those who appreciate high-quality ingredients, traditional flavors, and a dining experience that feels like a genuine slice of Italy right here in New York City.

Amarena is conveniently situated at 151 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028, a highly desirable address on the Upper East Side. The restaurant's location is in a bustling neighborhood, making it a perfect spot to visit after a day spent exploring nearby attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or Central Park.

To ensure a comfortable experience for all patrons, Amarena features a wheelchair accessible entrance. This key accessibility feature, combined with its easy-to-reach location, makes it a practical and welcoming choice for a wide range of visitors and locals alike. The combination of a prime address and thoughtful amenities adds to the overall appeal of this popular eatery.

Amarena provides a versatile range of services to cater to every dining preference, from enjoying a full meal in the restaurant to taking it home.

• Dine-in: Experience the full ambiance of the restaurant and receive attentive table service.
• Takeout & Delivery: For those who want to enjoy Amarena's delicious food from the comfort of their own home, the restaurant offers both standard takeout and convenient no-contact delivery and curbside pickup options.
• Brunch, Lunch & Dinner: The restaurant serves a comprehensive menu throughout the day, making it a great option for a weekend brunch, a quick lunch, or a celebratory dinner.
• Accepts Reservations: Given its popularity, the restaurant accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for dinner.

Amarena has earned its reputation as a standout Italian restaurant in New York City due to several key highlights that define the dining experience.

• Authentic Italian Flavors: The restaurant's commitment to traditional, delicate flavors and authentic portion sizes is a major highlight, appreciated by patrons who feel "back in Italy."
• Acclaimed House Bread: Both customers and reviewers praise the house bread, describing it as "perfect" and "excellent," making it a must-have part of the meal.
• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The beverage program is celebrated for its strength, offering a curated wine list and a variety of great cocktails, including a surprisingly strong selection of mocktails.
• High-Quality Dessert: The desserts are a highlight of the menu, with a reviewer specifically noting them as a "crowd favorite."
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: Amarena provides a unique and inviting setting that is perfect for a romantic evening or a relaxing meal with friends and family.
• Extensive and Diverse Menu: The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic pizzas and mouth-watering pastas to sophisticated main courses and small plates.

For reservations, which are highly recommended, or any other inquiries, you can contact Amarena using the information below.

• Address: 151 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028
• Phone: (212) 933-0992 or +1 212-933-0992

The menu at Amarena is an extensive and thoughtful compilation of Italian dishes, with several items that stand out for their quality and flavor. A common theme in reviews is the excellence of the house bread, so starting your meal with this highly-praised item is a fantastic choice.

For appetizers, the Burrata is a classic choice, though a reviewer noted it may need a little extra salt to taste. The Polpette (meatballs) are a hearty and comforting option, while the Fiori Di Zucca (fried zucchini flowers) and Arancini are perfect for a classic Italian start. The menu also offers a wide array of salads and interesting Antipasti like the Tonno Crudo.

The pasta dishes are a core part of the experience, with one reviewer describing them as "mouth melting." The Cavatelli Al Granchio is specifically praised as being "bright and perfectly al dente." Other enticing options include the rich Every Day Sunday Gravy and the elevated Campanelle Alla Vodka Lobster. While one reviewer had a negative experience with the Campanelle alla Vodka being overcooked, the consensus on the pasta is overwhelmingly positive, so exploring the list is highly encouraged.

The menu also features a variety of authentic pizzas, from the classic Margherita Pizza to more unique creations like the Tartufata Pizza with truffle and the savory Carbonara Pizza. For main courses, the selection is impressive, with items like the Prime NY Strip and Vitelo Alla Milanese showcasing the restaurant's commitment to high-quality ingredients. The seafood options, such as the Halibut and Branzino, are also worth considering.

The beverage program is a significant highlight. The restaurant has a "great wine list" and a variety of `Cocktails`, and one reviewer was "surprisingly impressed" with the `mocktail` selection, so non-alcoholic options are also worth exploring. For dessert, while one reviewer found the options to be "standard meh," others called them a "crowd favorite." The Tiramisu Sundae and the namesake Amarena Cake are intriguing and unique items that are worth trying. Ultimately, Amarena is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine and an inviting atmosphere, with a focus on fresh flavors and a more traditional approach to dining.

Amarena

151 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028, USA