Nonnas of the World

- 27 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301

Nonnas of the World, which evolved from the celebrated Enoteca Maria, is a one-of-a-kind dining destination located on Staten Island that offers New Yorkers a truly heartfelt and authentic culinary experience. This is not your typical Italian restaurant; the concept centers around a rotating roster of grandmothers—or 'Nonnas'—from Italy and various countries across the globe, each taking turns in the kitchen to prepare the beloved, traditional dishes of their heritage.

The unique concept, born from a desire to honor family tradition and cultural identity, has made this establishment a global sensation, even inspiring a Netflix film. The restaurant maintains two distinct culinary paths: one kitchen is dedicated to the regional Italian specialties crafted by Italian Nonnas, featuring classics like 'Penne Con Ragú' and 'Lasagna Della Nonna,' while the other hosts a rotating international Nonna, offering a different country's cuisine nightly. This means one evening you may find yourself savoring classic Italian 'Braciole Al Ragú Napoletana,' and the next, a specialty from a Japanese, Peruvian, or Egyptian Nonna.

Many New York patrons consider a visit here the highlight of a trip, describing the service as "warm and welcoming" with an atmosphere that truly makes you "feel like family." Highly praised dishes often include the deeply comforting, hearty Italian fare, with the 'Lasagna' and 'Polpette' (meatballs) frequently cited as some of the best in the city. The commitment to fresh ingredients is also noted, with a customer calling the harvest salad "very fresh and perfect components."

However, the nature of the rotating global menu means that the quality of the non-Italian, one-off dishes can vary, presenting an element of culinary adventure. One diner noted a Japanese Nonna’s Eggplant Dengaku dish was "terrible" and "overly charred," and also expressed disappointment with the lack of seasoning in the 'Capuzzelle' (Lamb’s Head), noting that the main meat lacked flavor despite the flavorful accompanying vegetables. Similarly, a popular dessert like the 'Banana Pudding' was criticized for being mostly cream. This feedback underscores that the restaurant is a true representation of home cooking—sometimes rustic and regional dishes may not appeal to all palates, or execution can be inconsistent.

Given its popularity, especially following its national media exposure, reservations are not just recommended; they are often essential. The atmosphere is described as 'Casual,' 'Cozy,' and 'Trendy,' and it caters well to 'Family-friendly' groups, larger 'Groups,' and 'Tourists' seeking this distinctive NYC culinary secret.

Its proximity to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal is a major advantage for all New York City users. Diners arriving via the iconic, free ferry from Lower Manhattan only have a short, five-minute walk to reach the restaurant, making it an excellent destination spot that also provides a scenic view of the Statue of Liberty during the commute.

Parking options in the area are typical for a busy urban district, though accommodating:

• Free Street Parking: Available in the immediate vicinity, though naturally subject to availability.
• Paid Street Parking: Available on surrounding streets for convenient hourly parking.
• Paid Parking Lot: Nearby parking lots offer a secure option for diners traveling by car.

A crucial logistical note for all guests is the restaurant's policy: 'Cash-only.' Visitors planning a trip should ensure they are prepared with cash, as credit or debit cards are not accepted for payment.

• Dining Service: The primary service is 'Dine-in' with dedicated 'Table service,' offering a focused and intimate meal experience.
• Reservations System: Due to its high demand, the restaurant operates on a strictly controlled reservation system:
  • 'Accepts reservations' with 'Reservations required.'
  • 'Lunch reservations recommended' and 'Dinner reservations recommended.'
  • It is common to experience 'Usually a wait' even with a reservation, reflecting its small size and popularity.
• Comprehensive Meal Options: Available for 'Lunch,' 'Dinner,' and an array of 'Dessert' options, making it suitable for any time of day they are open.
• Culinary Offerings: The menu is robust and features an extensive list of dishes under categories such as 'First Plate,' 'Second Plate,' and 'Main,' as well as daily-changing 'Spuntino Special' items.
• Beverage Program: Highly rated for its beverage offerings, including:
  • 'Great wine list' with a selection of Italian wines.
  • Selection of 'Beer.'
  • 'Great cocktails.'
  • 'Coffee' for a perfect meal ender.
• Dietary Accommodations: The changing menu often features several inclusive options, including:
  • 'Vegan options'
  • 'Vegetarian options'
  • 'Organic dishes'
• Amenities: Providing essential comfort and convenience with a 'Restroom' and a 'Gender-neutral restroom.'

• The Nonna Concept: The defining highlight is the rotating guest chefs—real grandmothers from various countries—who prepare authentic 'Serves local specialty' and 'Comfort food' from their respective cultures, ensuring a truly unique menu every visit.
• Critically Praised Italian Staples: The permanent Italian menu is anchored by highly-rated traditional dishes like the 'Lasagna Della Nonna' and 'Polpette,' which consistently receive high praise from both local New Yorkers and visitors.
• Acclaimed Wine and Beverage Program: The restaurant is specifically highlighted for its 'Great cocktails,' 'Great coffee,' and 'Great wine list,' confirming that the quality extends beyond the food.
• Atmosphere and Service: The environment is noted for being 'Casual,' 'Cozy,' and 'Trendy,' offering a relaxed yet sought-after dining atmosphere. Customers also highlight 'Fast service' despite the busy nature of the small dining room.
• Media Recognition: The restaurant's story and concept have garnered national and international media attention, including inspiring a major Netflix film, which elevates its status from a local eatery to a cultural phenomenon.
• Culinary Adventure: The ever-changing international menu provides a unique 'Small plates' and full meal opportunity to try authentic, regional, and often rare-to-find global dishes, such as 'Capuzzelle' (Lamb's Head), 'Zampe Di Porcellino' (Pig's Feet), or dishes like the Japanese Nonna’s 'Eggplant Dengaku.'
• Ideal for Multiple Crowds: It is highly 'Popular for' 'Lunch' and 'Dinner' and is explicitly welcoming to 'Family-friendly' groups, large 'Groups,' and 'Solo dining,' making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Address: 27 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301

Phone: (718) 447-2777

Mobile Phone: +1 718-447-2777

The restaurant requires reservations for both 'Lunch' and 'Dinner' and advises booking for specific Nonnas' cuisines well in advance, as schedules are often published on a rolling basis. Remember to confirm the 'Cash-only' payment policy prior to your visit to ensure a smooth dining experience.

The Unbeatable Atmosphere and Service: The most significant draw is the feeling of walking into a grandmother’s home. Customers repeatedly highlight the warmth, the welcoming nature of the staff, and the feeling of being "part of the family." For a bustling metropolis like New York, this unique, 'Cozy' and personal touch is a precious commodity that is truly worth the trip to Staten Island.

The Italian Menu Staples: While the rotating global menu is the main attraction, the permanent Italian menu, cooked by the resident Italian Nonnas, is consistently excellent. Hearty, home-cooked favorites such as the 'Lasagna Della Nonna,' 'Polpette,' and traditional pasta dishes like 'Penne Con Ragú' are often hailed as the best of their kind. Choosing one of these classics guarantees a dish made with genuine love and generations of tradition.

A Global Culinary Education: For the adventurous New York foodie, choosing a night with an international Nonna provides a rare opportunity to taste truly authentic regional dishes that simply cannot be found anywhere else in the city. The commitment to 'Serves local specialty' and the inclusion of niche, culturally significant items like 'Zampe Di Gallina' or 'Coda Di Vitello' offers an educational and exciting dining experience. Though quality can be variable on specific international dishes, the unique nature of the offering is what you are truly paying for.

In short, choose Nonnas of the World to support a unique cultural institution, savor unparalleled Italian comfort food, and experience a dining journey defined by the love and skill of grandmothers from around the globe. Just be sure to plan ahead with your 'Reservations required' and remember to bring 'Cash-only.'

Nonnas of the World

27 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301, USA