Lusardi's

- 1494 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075

In a city filled with countless dining options, a restaurant that not only survives but thrives for over four decades is a true testament to its quality and dedication. Lusardi's, a cherished Italian institution on the Upper East Side, is one such place. Owned and operated by two brothers, this restaurant has been a beloved neighborhood fixture since 1982. It offers an old-world charm that is both cozy and upscale, providing a dining experience that feels intimate and special. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with a sense of warm hospitality and a promise of expertly crafted Northern Italian cuisine that has captivated New Yorkers for generations.

Lusardi's is a place where every detail is carefully considered, from the attentive staff to the well-curated menu. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal with a group. The lighting is dim, the tables are adorned with white tablecloths, and the atmosphere buzzes with the quiet confidence of a restaurant that truly knows what it's doing. The menu, while offering a variety of timeless classics, is supplemented by an array of daily specials, ensuring that every visit offers something new to discover. The restaurant is also praised for its impressive wine list, which complements the dishes perfectly and provides a wide selection for both connoisseurs and casual diners.

The secret to Lusardi's enduring success lies in its consistency and commitment to quality. The food is consistently well-seasoned and flavorful, with dishes that evoke the feeling of a home-cooked Italian meal, elevated by professional skill. The staff, many of whom are Italian, contribute to an authentic and welcoming environment. This combination of great food, excellent service, and a captivating ambiance has made Lusardi's a go-to spot for many regulars, and a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to experience a piece of New York’s classic Italian dining scene.

---

### Location and Accessibility

Lusardi's is situated at 1494 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075. This prime location in the Upper East Side makes it easily accessible for a wide range of visitors. The restaurant is conveniently located near various public transportation options, including subway and bus lines, allowing for a straightforward trip from different parts of the city. While paid street parking is available, it is typical for this bustling New York neighborhood to have limited spots, so planning ahead is advisable.

The restaurant is designed to be accessible to all patrons. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for everyone. The interior is divided into upstairs and downstairs areas, each offering a slightly different ambiance, from a more intimate, dimly lit vibe upstairs to a more friendly and communal feel downstairs. This versatile layout allows the restaurant to accommodate different group sizes and occasions, from a romantic dinner for two to a larger group gathering.

---

### Services Offered

Lusardi's provides a range of services designed to offer a complete and elegant dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on traditional table service and hospitality. Here are the services you can expect:

• Dine-in: The primary service is a full dine-in experience, complete with table service, in a cozy and upscale atmosphere.
• Takeout: For those who wish to enjoy their food at home, takeout is available.
• Outdoor Seating: The restaurant offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal in the open air during pleasant weather.
• Catering: Lusardi's also provides catering services for special events, allowing you to bring their acclaimed cuisine to your next gathering.

---

### Features and Highlights

What sets Lusardi's apart is its steadfast commitment to classic quality and a superb dining experience. These are the highlights that make it a standout choice on the Upper East Side:

• Great Wine List: The restaurant is well-regarded for its extensive and excellent wine selection, with a knowledgeable staff that can offer perfect pairing recommendations.
• Great Dessert: Customers consistently rave about the desserts. The pistachio tart is a particular favorite, and homemade options like Tiramisu are also on the menu.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major highlight, described as cozy, romantic, and even intimate, making it perfect for special occasions.
• Authentic Italian Staff: A number of the staff, including the front-of-house person and the majority of the servers, are Italian, which adds to the authenticity of the experience.
• Reservations Required: This feature highlights the restaurant's popularity and demand. It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially for dinner, to secure a table.

---

### Contact Information

To make a reservation or for any inquiries, you can contact Lusardi's using the information below:

Address: 1494 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075

Phone: (212) 249-2020

---

### What is worth choosing

The menu at Lusardi's offers a wide selection of classic and contemporary Italian dishes, with many worth trying. The Antipasti section features favorites like Caprese Di Bufala, while the Pasta dishes are a highlight. The Tagliolini Cacio Pepe and Raviolacci are excellent choices, with the latter, a wild mushroom and fontina cheese-filled ravioli, being a standout. Another exceptional choice is the seafood pasta, which is consistently praised for being well-seasoned and delicious.

For a main course, the Fish and Meat sections offer rich and flavorful options. A customer review highlighted a daily special of Branzino in white wine sauce, praising its fantastic flavor. The Sogliola Al Prosecco and Salmone Al Rafano are also excellent choices for fish lovers. For meat, the Vitello Al Prosciutto and Pollo Tartufato are notable. The staff is also known to be very accommodating to dietary needs, even creating custom dishes for vegetarians, showcasing their dedication to a great dining experience for everyone.

No meal at Lusardi's would be complete without trying one of their celebrated desserts. The Pistachio Tart is highly recommended and described as "chef kiss" by a customer. The restaurant also provides complimentary treats like fresh bread with olive oil and Italian cookies, adding a special touch to the experience. Lusardi's is a superb choice for anyone seeking authentic, high-quality Italian food in a beautiful setting. Its long history and consistent excellence make it a true New York gem that is perfect for a special meal or an evening out with good company.

Lusardi's

1494 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075, USA