Gioia

- 94 South St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

For New York diners on Long Island seeking an authentic, high-quality Italian dining experience that blends cozy, romantic ambiance with culinary expertise, Gioia in Oyster Bay is a must-visit destination. True to its name, which means 'joy' in Italian, Gioia aims to bring the warmth and deliciousness of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy—famous for its fresh, handmade pasta—straight to the North Shore. It's more than just a restaurant; it’s a modern Italian trattoria centered on the belief that joy and pasta should be shared often and with love.

This establishment has quickly become one of Oyster Bay's most talked-about culinary spots, celebrated for its focus on simplicity, seasonal vegetables, and a commitment to making pasta fresh in-house every day. While the atmosphere is distinctly cozy and romantic, it remains accessible and welcoming to the local community, making it ideal for a special date night or an upscale family dinner. The dining experience is elevated by outstanding service, a carefully curated wine list, and unique touches like tableside preparations that add a theatrical flourish to the meal.

Gioia is conveniently situated in the heart of downtown Oyster Bay, a charming hamlet that is continually growing its reputation as a vibrant dining scene on Long Island. Its exact location is:

• Address: 94 South St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Accessibility is a key priority, making it easy for all New York patrons to enjoy the dining experience. The restaurant offers comprehensive accessibility features, which are a major benefit in the Long Island area:

• Parking: Guests benefit from both Free parking lot access and Free street parking options nearby, alleviating the common stress of finding a spot.
• Accessibility: The venue is fully equipped with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring comfort and ease of access for everyone.

Gioia provides a full-service dining model with additional options to accommodate the modern New York lifestyle, all while maintaining a focus on a high-end experience.

• Dine-in: The core offering, emphasizing table service in an intimate and perfectly timed setting that is neither rushed nor slow.
• Delivery and Takeout: For customers who prefer to enjoy the Italian specialties at home, the full menu is available for both delivery and convenient pickup.
• Dinner Service: The restaurant primarily focuses on an exceptional dinner experience, for which reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
• Brunch: While focusing on dinner, the venue also offers a delightful Brunch service, providing another opportunity to experience their famous cuisine.
• Catering: While details are not fully specified, the availability of 'Catering' suggests the ability to bring their signature Italian fare to private events and parties.
• Bar Service: A full Bar onsite offers a range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, hard liquor, and a highlight on Great cocktails.
• Kids’ Menu and Amenities: The restaurant is Good for kids and provides High chairs, making it a surprisingly welcoming option for families despite its romantic ambiance.

Gioia’s popularity among New York locals is driven by several stand-out features that enhance the entire dining experience, positioning it as a top-tier Italian option on Long Island.

• Handmade Pasta and Emilia-Romagna Focus: The true culinary heart of Gioia is its authentic focus on Northern Italian cuisine, featuring fresh, handmade pasta dishes that are often lauded as better than some fine dining in the city. Signature pastas include Mushroom Lasagna, Tagliatelle Bolognese (made with beef, veal, & pork), Gramigna with spicy sausage, and the daily specials like Lobster Tagliatelle.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: The venue offers a sophisticated selection, highlighted by a Great wine list that is often described as a 'day trip from Bologna,' featuring unique Italian varietals. They also boast Great cocktails, including the famous Tableside Martini Classico and the popular Spritz Cart.
• Tableside Service and Thematic Carts: The dining experience includes unique, theatrical touches such as the preparation of cocktails tableside and the presence of a mobile Piatto Di Formaggi (cheese trolley) and a Mozzarella Cart. These elements contribute to the romantic and intimate atmosphere.
• Atmosphere and Ambiance: The setting is described as Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy—a perfect storm for an intimate date night or a special occasion. Reviewers specifically note the ambiance is perfect, with music in the background that allows for easy conversation.
• Speed and Quality of Service: Despite its high-quality presentation and popularity, the restaurant is praised for its Fast service and perfectly timed meal pacing, ensuring that guests feel neither rushed nor neglected between courses.

For New York customers wishing to secure a reservation or inquire about service, the restaurant is readily available:

• Address: 94 South St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
• Phone: (516) 922-1660
• Mobile Phone: +1 516-922-1660

Gioia is absolutely worth choosing for any New York diner looking for a memorable and authentic Italian experience outside of Manhattan. It is hailed as the "true hidden gem of Oyster Bay" and the ideal blend of fine dining sophistication and comfortable neighborhood trattoria charm. What makes it stand out is its specialized focus: the deep dive into the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna, a region often underrepresented compared to Southern Italian fare. The commitment to fresh, handmade pasta—such as the acclaimed Mushroom Lasagna or the traditional Maltagliati—is a significant differentiator.

Beyond the food, the combination of excellent, friendly service (especially from the bar staff, as noted by customers), the intimate atmosphere, and the novelty of tableside presentations for cocktails and cheese creates a complete and joyous experience. The fantastic beverage program, featuring a Great wine list and expertly crafted cocktails, further elevates a standard dinner into a special event. For solo diners, couples seeking a Romantic evening, or small groups, Gioia delivers a refined yet approachable experience that many Long Islanders are thrilled to have as their local high-end Italian option.

Gioia

94 South St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, USA