Levante: Authentic Italian Cuisine in Long Island City, Queens

Levante Introduce

In the thriving, modern landscape of Long Island City, where new businesses seem to pop up daily, there are a few places that have established themselves as true neighborhood staples. Levante is one of those places. This Italian restaurant has cultivated a reputation for delivering an authentic and delicious dining experience that feels both cozy and classy. For a New Yorker, finding a spot that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere alongside high-quality, memorable food is a priceless discovery. Levante brings the flavors of Italy to Queens, with a focus on artisanal dishes, particularly their renowned Neapolitan-style pizza. This article will take you on a journey through everything that makes Levante a must-visit destination, from its prime location and array of services to the specific menu items that have garnered high praise from locals. It's more than just a place to eat; it’s a spot to unwind, share a meal with friends, and enjoy a taste of "La Dolce Vita" right here in New York City.

Levante is conveniently located at 37-21 24th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA, placing it in a well-connected and easily accessible part of the borough. Situated in a neighborhood known for its rapid development and vibrant community, Levante is a central and attractive option for dining. The restaurant's location is particularly advantageous for New Yorkers who rely on the city’s extensive public transportation. It is a reasonable walking distance from several major subway lines, including the 7, N, Q, E, M, and R trains. This makes it a quick and straightforward trip from Manhattan or other parts of Queens. The surrounding area is also quite walkable, allowing diners to enjoy the urban landscape before or after their meal. Being a part of the bustling Long Island City scene means Levante is a visible and well-known spot, making it easy to find for both local residents and visitors looking for an authentic Italian meal. The restaurant is also part of a larger hospitality group that has a presence in other parts of New York, which speaks to its established reputation and quality.

Levante offers a full range of services to provide a comprehensive and accommodating dining experience. Their focus is on creating a welcoming environment that suits various occasions, from a casual dinner to a special event. The services include:

Dine-in Service: Levante provides a beautiful dining space with a full bar, high ceilings, and an elegant yet cozy ambiance. It is an ideal setting for an intimate dinner or a gathering with a group of friends. They also have a spacious backyard and a private dining room for more exclusive events, accommodating groups of various sizes.
Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Levante offers both takeout and delivery options. This service allows you to savor their artisanal food from the comfort of your own home, making it a convenient choice for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend in.
Catering and Events: The restaurant has the capacity to host intimate gatherings and large events. With multiple spaces available, they can accommodate groups from 10 to 150 guests, making it a great option for parties, celebrations, or corporate events. They also offer a "Do It Yourself" pizza kit, a unique and fun service for those who want to get hands-on at home.
Full Bar: Levante features a lively 16-seat full bar with a selection of classic and signature Italian cocktails, along with a curated wine list. This makes it a great spot for a drink, whether you're having a full meal or just stopping by for happy hour.

These varied services highlight Levante's commitment to flexibility and providing a high-quality experience no matter the occasion or location.

Levante stands out for several unique features and highlights that have earned it a solid reputation in the New York dining scene. These elements are frequently praised in customer reviews and are what make the restaurant truly special:

Authentic Neapolitan Pizza: The cornerstone of Levante's menu is its wood-fired Neapolitan pizza. Reviewers consistently praise the quality, noting the "slightly crunchy" crust with "nice char" and a wide selection of toppings. Popular choices include the "Levante Pizza" with wild mushrooms, truffle paté, and prosciutto, and the "Quattro Formaggi" (Four Cheese) pizza, which is described as "divine" and "beautiful." The restaurant has a dedicated pizzaiolo team, led by Francesco Perna, to ensure a high level of quality and authenticity in every pie.
Cozy and Classy Ambiance: The atmosphere is a major draw. The space is described as having a "cozy" and "inviting" ambiance, yet it is also noted for being "elegant and refined." The dining room features soaring 32-foot ceilings and a lively bar. The presence of a wood-fired oven in the back creates a "mesmerizing" visual element that adds to the authentic feel.
Diverse and High-Quality Menu: While pizza is a focus, the menu extends to a full range of Italian dishes. Popular antipasti include four-cheese arancini and homemade meatballs. The pasta selection features homemade options, with a notable mention of a rich rigatoni with a three-meat ragù. For dessert, the tiramisu is a frequently praised choice, and their Nutella zeppole are described as "delicious" with "lots of Nutella."
Outdoor Seating: The restaurant features a spacious backyard and front outdoor seating, which is a highly valued feature for New Yorkers, offering a comfortable and stylish option for al fresco dining.
Partnership with Enoteca LIC: Levante's connection to Enoteca LIC, a nearby wine and spirits store, allows them to curate a quality wine list that goes beyond "commercial" options, focusing on smaller producers and unique vintages, adding another layer of authenticity to the dining experience.

These highlights, from the perfect pizza to the welcoming atmosphere, are what make Levante a cherished spot for locals and a standout Italian restaurant in New York City.

For those looking to visit or contact Levante, here is the essential information:

Address: 37-21 24th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA

Phone: The publicly available phone number is (718) 392-3885.

The clear and accessible contact details make it easy for customers to reach out for reservations, inquiries, or to place an order, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience.

In a city with a plethora of Italian dining options, what makes Levante worth choosing? It's the rare combination of high-quality, authentic food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant isn't just serving food; it's providing an experience that feels like a mini-trip to Italy. The praise for their Neapolitan pizza is a major draw, but the menu's depth, from classic appetizers to homemade pasta, ensures that every craving is met. The cozy and elegant ambiance, complete with an eye-catching wood-fired oven, makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, whether it's a romantic dinner or a celebratory night out with friends. The consistent positive reviews for their food, ambiance, and small touches like the complimentary focaccia all contribute to its reputation as a reliable and excellent choice. For New Yorkers in Long Island City and beyond, Levante is the perfect spot to indulge in a truly authentic Italian meal without leaving the city. It’s a place that has mastered the art of making customers feel at home while serving them exceptional, artisanal cuisine, and that is a combination that is always worth choosing.