Aunt Jake's

- 1555 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028

In the vibrant culinary landscape of New York City, where Italian restaurants are abundant, Aunt Jake's stands out as a true gem on the Upper East Side. This is not your typical Italian restaurant; it is a dedicated Pasta shop that places the art of handmade pasta at the very heart of its experience. It offers a unique concept that combines the comfort of classic Italian fare with an interactive, hands-on approach that captivates both seasoned foodies and curious newcomers. As one satisfied customer shared, it’s a place where they "had such an amazing and unique experience," a feeling that is echoed by many who have visited.

The philosophy at Aunt Jake's is simple yet powerful: to deliver fresh, flavorful food in a warm, inviting setting. The atmosphere is best described as a perfect mix of casual, cozy, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a variety of occasions, whether you're out for a relaxed lunch, an intimate dinner, or even dining solo. While it's particularly popular with groups looking for a memorable night out, the welcoming environment ensures everyone feels right at home. It’s a place that fosters a fun and engaging atmosphere, which is essential for creating lasting memories, especially for those who participate in their unique offerings. The team is known for being friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall fantastic experience and making every visit feel special.

Aunt Jake's is conveniently located at 1555 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028. Situated on the Upper East Side, the restaurant is easily accessible to locals and visitors exploring the neighborhood's many attractions. Its central location on 2nd Avenue makes it a prime destination for a delicious and comforting Italian meal. For those driving, the establishment is situated in an area where both free street parking and paid street parking are available, offering a couple of options for patrons.

The restaurant is also committed to providing a welcoming space for all diners. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the dining experience. Given its popularity, especially during peak hours, it is highly recommended to plan ahead. While the staff is known for their fast service, the restaurant can get busy, so reservations are a key part of the experience. It is noted that reservations are required or at least recommended, particularly for dinner, to ensure you can secure a table and avoid a wait. This thoughtful planning helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit from start to finish.

Aunt Jake's offers a comprehensive range of service options designed to suit the fast-paced lifestyle of New Yorkers, while also providing a full-service dining experience.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, authentic experience by dining in and taking advantage of the warm atmosphere and attentive table service.
• Outdoor Seating: On a beautiful day, you can choose to sit outside and enjoy your meal while taking in the vibrant energy of the Upper East Side neighborhood.
• Takeout: For those who want to enjoy Aunt Jake's food at home or at the office, takeout is a convenient and quick option.
• Delivery: Stay cozy at home and have your Italian favorites brought right to your door with both standard and no-contact delivery options.

What sets Aunt Jake's apart from other Italian restaurants in the city is its focus on creating an engaging and memorable experience, not just serving a meal.

• The Pasta Making Class: This is arguably the most unique and celebrated feature of Aunt Jake's. As highlighted in a customer review, it's a "fun and hands-on" experience where you get to learn the art of pasta making. For an incredibly reasonable price, the experience includes the class itself, guided by a helpful and professional staff, followed by a delicious three-course meal. This blend of entertainment and excellent food makes for a unique birthday celebration, date night, or group outing.
• Customizable Pasta Dishes: The restaurant's core concept is a testament to its creativity and commitment to customer satisfaction. Patrons have the freedom to choose from a variety of fresh Pasta Shapes and an array of sauces, allowing them to create their own unique combination. This "build your own" approach ensures that every dish is tailored to your specific taste, whether you're a purist or looking for something more adventurous.
• Comprehensive Menu Offerings: Beyond the pasta, the menu is extensive and well-rounded. It includes a variety of Starters and delicious Specialties, and also caters to various dietary needs with its gluten-free (GF) and vegetarian (V) options marked clearly on the menu, such as the Risotto (GF, CV) and Eggplant Caponata (CGF, V).
• A Full-Service Bar: The restaurant features a well-stocked bar onsite with a variety of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, and Hard liquor. This makes it an excellent choice for a night out, where you can pair your meal with a perfect glass of Wine or a refreshing cocktail.

For more information, to inquire about a reservation, or to place an order, you can reach Aunt Jake's at the following address and phone number.

• Address: 1555 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
• Phone: (917) 261-5040

The menu at Aunt Jake's is full of delicious possibilities, but some items truly stand out and showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality. The most recommended experience is undoubtedly the pasta-making class. As one reviewer noted, it's an "amazing experience" that is "so fun and hands-on," followed by a truly delicious three-course meal. This is a unique and worthwhile option that provides not only a meal but also a lasting memory.

For those who prefer to simply dine in, the menu is full of incredible options. You cannot go wrong with their classic Three Cheese Meat Lasagna or the Chicken Parmigiana, both of which are beloved staples. However, for a more adventurous and authentic Italian experience, the Squid Ink Bucatini Vongole is a fantastic choice, offering a burst of rich, savory flavors. The Shrimp Scampi and Risotto also come highly recommended as beautifully executed main courses. The beauty of the menu, however, lies in its customizable nature. Choosing from the array of fresh Pasta Shapes, from the thick Mafalda to the pillowy Sweet Potato Gnocchi, and pairing it with your choice of sauce allows you to create your perfect pasta dish. Starting with a Hot Honey Burrata or the all-natural Beef Meatballs is a great way to begin your meal. The Kale Caesar Salad is also a popular starter, loved for its fresh, flavorful ingredients. Aunt Jake's offers an experience that is both highly personal and deeply satisfying, making every dish a good choice.

Aunt Jake's

1555 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA