Nica Trattoria Introduce
In a city overflowing with dining options, finding an authentic Italian restaurant that feels like a hidden gem is a true delight. Nica Trattoria, nestled on a quiet street in the Upper East Side, is exactly that. It's more than just a place to eat; it's an experience that transports you to a small, cozy family-owned restaurant in Italy. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere is warm, charming, and full of life, creating a magical setting that feels both intimate and welcoming. The restaurant is a labor of love, and this passion is evident in every detail, from the rich flavors of the food to the exceptional hospitality.
The true heart of Nica Trattoria is its owner and host, who greets every guest as if they were old friends. As one customer beautifully described, he is "not only welcoming and kind, but he sang! His voice filled the room with joy and added such a personal, unforgettable touch to the evening." This level of personal engagement is rare in New York City and is a major reason why Nica Trattoria has earned such a devoted following. It's this unique combination of a heartfelt welcome and delicious, authentic food that makes the experience so memorable. Patrons feel like a "guest in his home," which creates a sense of comfort and authenticity that you simply can't replicate.
The food at Nica Trattoria is a testament to the simplicity and richness of classic Italian cuisine. The menu is filled with dishes that are "absolutely divine," with every bite "bursting with authentic flavor." From the perfectly cooked pasta to the rich sauces, each dish is crafted with care and tradition. The restaurant's popularity is also driven by its reputation for having some of the "best gnocchi" in the city. Another review highlighted the incredible quality of their lamb dishes, noting that they source "very good lamb from a small farm in upstate NY," a detail that speaks to their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu offers a wide variety of options, from classic antipasti to hearty main courses and a selection of delicious desserts and an excellent wine list to complement any meal.
Nica Trattoria is a perfect spot for various occasions. Its cozy and romantic atmosphere makes it an ideal location for a special date night, where you can enjoy an intimate meal in a beautiful setting. It is also well-suited for solo dining, as the welcoming staff and lively atmosphere ensure that you feel comfortable and cared for. The restaurant's popularity means that reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, which is a testament to its success and the high demand for a seat in this charming establishment. It’s an upscale experience without the stiff formality, proving that great food and hospitality can be enjoyed in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Nica Trattoria is located at 354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028, in a charming part of the Upper East Side. This location makes it a convenient and sought-after destination for locals.
The restaurant is committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere of this special restaurant.
Nica Trattoria offers a range of services that cater to its customers' preferences.
- Outdoor Seating: For those who prefer to dine al fresco, the restaurant offers an outdoor seating option.
- Curbside Pickup and Takeout: Enjoy the delicious food from Nica Trattoria in the comfort of your own home with convenient takeout and curbside pickup services.
- Dine-in: Experience the full, magical atmosphere of the restaurant with table service.
Nica Trattoria is known for its incredible features that contribute to its unique charm.
- Authentic Italian Cuisine: The restaurant specializes in classic and authentic Italian dishes, with a menu full of fresh, flavorful options.
- Exceptional Hospitality: The host's engaging personality and friendly welcome make every guest feel special and part of the family.
- Great Wine List, Coffee, and Dessert: The restaurant provides a comprehensive and high-quality experience from start to finish, with great selections of wine, coffee, and desserts.
- Romantic and Cozy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major highlight, perfect for a memorable and intimate meal.
- Reservations Recommended: The restaurant accepts reservations, making it easy to plan your visit and ensure a table.
- Solo Dining: The welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for solo diners looking for a delicious meal and a pleasant experience.
To make a reservation or learn more, you can contact Nica Trattoria at the following:
Address: 354 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028
Phone: (212) 472-5040
Mobile Phone: +1 212-472-5040
There are many reasons why Nica Trattoria is a standout choice in New York City. What makes it truly worth choosing is the unparalleled blend of authentic, high-quality Italian food and a warm, personal hospitality that is hard to find elsewhere. The menu offers a wide variety of classic dishes, from the perfectly cooked Spaghetti Carbonara to the rich and flavorful Tagliatelle Bolognese. The specialty dishes, such as the best-ever gnocchi and the well-regarded lamb, are a must-try. Beyond the food, the romantic and cozy atmosphere, combined with the entertaining and welcoming host, turns a simple dinner into a magical event. It's a place where you can go for a quick bite or linger for a special occasion, feeling a true connection to the culture and people. Nica Trattoria provides a unique and unforgettable dining experience that will leave you with a full heart and an even fuller belly.
Nica Trattoria Food & drink
Antipasti
- Funghi ripieni $10.75
Stuffed mushrooms
- Zuppa di vongole $12.75
Baby clams in a light garlic, tomato, and white wine sauce
- Peperoni con acciughe $10.50
Fresh roasted peppers with anchovies
- Carpaccio originale $14.75
Thinly sliced filet mignon with olive oil, lemon, and shaved parmigiano reggiano
- Caprese e prosciutto $12.50
Fresh mozzarella with tomato and prosciutto
- Caesar salad $10.50
- Insalata tropicale $12.75
Heart of palm, endive, and avocado
- Insalata tre colori $10.75
Rucola, endive, and radicchio salad
- Polenta con porcini $14.75
Polenta topped with porcini mushrooms
Secondi
- Scampi ubriachi $28.50
Sautéed shrimp in white wine garlic sauce
- Pollo alla Giorgio $23.50
Breast of chicken sautéed with prosciutto, fontina cheese, and mushrooms
- Pollo scarpariello $25.00
Chicken with garlic and oil
- Costoletta di vitello $35.75
Grilled veal chop
- Bistecchina pizzaiola $32.75
Steak with spicy tomato sauce
- Medaglioni di filetto $35.00
Filet mignon medallions in a black pepper sauce
- Cosciotto d'agnello $32.75
Braised lamb shank
Pasta
- Spaghetti pomodoro $16.75
Spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce
- Spaghetti carbonara $16.75
Spaghetti with pancetta, onion, egg and parmigiano reggiano
- Farfalle al ragù di tonno $18.75
bowtie pasta with a tuna ragout
- Fusilli nordici $16.75
Short pasta with fresh salmon and vodka in a pink tomato sauce
- Fidelini frutti di mare $18.75
Thin spaghetti with seafood
- Fidelini Borgo Taro $18.75
Thin spaghetti with olive oil, garlic, fresh porcini mushrooms and tomato
- Linguine al pesto $16.75
Linguine with home-made pesto sauce
- Linguine alle vongole $16.75
Linguine with baby clams, garlic, and white wine (white or red sauce)
- Linguine alla puttanesca $16.75
Linguine with capers, anchovies, fresh tomato, and black olives
- Rigatoni boscaiola $18.75
Rigatoni with meat sauce, mushrooms, and peas
- Rigatoni all'amatriciana $16.75
Rigatoni with onion, pancetta and fresh tomato
- Rigatoni quattro formaggi $16.75
Rigatoni in a four-cheese sauce
- Tagliatelle bolognese $18.75
Long pasta with meat sauce
- Penne alla vodka $16.75
Short pasta with spicy tomato sauce, vodka, and a touch of cream
- Orecchiette alla barese $18.75
Orecchiette with broccoli rabe, sausage, and garlic
- Tortellini in brodo $16.75
Tortellini in home-made broth
Dolci
- Dolci
Ask us about our home-made desserts
Nica Trattoria Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
Planning
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Nica Trattoria Photos










Nica Trattoria Location
Nica Trattoria Reviews
gnocchicashlambownerchopsgemartichokewalkcauliflowerintimate
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1From the moment I stepped in, I knew I was in for something special. The atmosphere was warm, charming, and full of life — it felt like a little slice of Italy! The food? Absolutely divine. Every bite was bursting with authentic flavor, from the rich sauces to the perfectly cooked pasta.But what truly made the night magical was the host — not only welcoming and kind, but he sang! His voice filled the room with joy and added such a personal, unforgettable touch to the evening. It felt like dinner and a show rolled into one beautiful experience.I had the most beautiful time here. I left with a full heart and an even fuller belly. Can’t wait to go back!
August 13 · Hanna ObradovichThis place is a must go. You feel as if you’re in a small cozy family own restaurant in Italy. Best gnocchi I’ve ever had. Also ordered ragú pasta with lamb and eggplant stuffed with goat cheese and drenched in tomato sauce. All terrific. The owner has a personality! Makes you feel as if you’re a guest in his home. I plan to come back and take the rest of my family. Out of all of the Italian restaurants I’ve been in the city, definitely one of the most authentic experiences.
July 03 · Thomas SpotoThis spot is truly a gem in the upper east side. Authentically good food with great staff and so many options to choose from. The wait staff was so attentive and the owner was so charismatic and funny. Made us feel so welcome and happy to be there! The gnocchi was incredible and we will definitely be back to try more of the delicious apps. Not sure what these negative reviews are talking about, it was everything we were hoping it to be.
May 10 · Fern PasternakI don’t know what any of these negative reviews are talking about this is probably one of the best local spots on the UES. Food is incredible, staff is hard working (my water glass was never empty), and the owner is entertaining. What a great small Italian restaurant. Gnocchi is the best I’ve ever had and I’ve had a lot of gnocchi in my life. 100% will be returning.
May 10 · Kerrin HarvanPeople in the neighborhood need to run to this authentic Italian restaurant. They use the best ingredients and the food is absolutely delicious and made to order. We had the asparagus and the burrata to start and the pastas were A+: carbonara, amatriciana and vodka. Each better than the other. The final touch was the homemade panna cotta. We will be back very soon. Thank you so much to Giuseppe.
July 07 · Lauren Asnis
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