Sandro's: An Authentic Roman and Northern Italian Gem on the Upper East Side

Sandro's Introduce

In a city filled with Italian restaurants, Sandro's stands out as a true culinary destination on the Upper East Side. This isn’t your average neighborhood trattoria; it’s an authentic and upscale establishment dedicated to the rich and nuanced flavors of Roman and Northern Italian cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the cozy and romantic atmosphere transports you far from the bustling streets of New York. Sandro's is the kind of place you reserve for a special date night, a celebration with friends, or a quiet solo dinner when you want to truly indulge. The bar area is particularly welcoming, a great place to begin or end your evening with a masterfully crafted cocktail.

Sandro's has built a reputation for its commitment to classic, well-executed dishes. They are known for their exceptional pasta, with customers consistently raving about the perfect texture and flavorful sauces. The menu is a thoughtful curation of Italian staples and chef's specials, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques. The service is often highlighted as a key part of the experience, with a friendly and helpful staff who are eager to provide suggestions and ensure a memorable meal. From the complimentary bread and bruschetta to the thoughtful touches throughout the dining experience, Sandro's feels like a place that truly cares about its guests.

Sandro's is located at 322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028. This convenient Upper East Side address places it in a prime spot for both local residents and tourists visiting the area. The restaurant is easily accessible by various modes of public transportation, including a short walk from the subway and bus stops, making it a viable option for a special night out no matter where you are in the city. The location is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is surrounded by other shops and businesses, but Sandro's provides a quiet and intimate escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The restaurant offers a wheelchair-accessible seating area, ensuring that a broad range of guests can enjoy its culinary delights. While the atmosphere is upscale and romantic, the staff is very accommodating and welcoming to all, making it a comfortable space for groups and dates alike. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, as the restaurant is a popular spot and often has a wait during peak hours.

Sandro's provides a comprehensive range of services designed to offer a seamless and high-end dining experience.

Dine-in: The restaurant offers a full-service dining experience with both bar and table seating. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a friendly group gathering.
Reservations: Sandro's accepts reservations, which are highly recommended to ensure you get a table, especially during busy dinner hours.
Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Sandro's offers takeout and curbside pickup services.
Delivery: The restaurant provides both standard and no-contact delivery, bringing its authentic Italian cuisine directly to your door.
Catering: Sandro's also offers catering services, making it a great choice for special events or business lunches.

Sandro's stands out in the competitive New York dining scene due to its exceptional features and highlights.

Great Wine List: The restaurant boasts an impressive wine list, with selections that perfectly complement the authentic Italian menu. The staff is knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Exceptional Cocktails and Coffee: Beyond wine, Sandro's is known for its great cocktails, which are a perfect way to start your evening. The coffee is also highly praised, making for a perfect end to the meal, especially when paired with one of their desserts.
Delicious Desserts: Don't skip dessert. Sandro's is celebrated for its Tiramisu and other dessert offerings, providing a sweet finish to a perfect meal.
Authentic Italian Cuisine: Specializing in Roman and Northern Italian dishes, Sandro's offers a taste of Italy that is both genuine and comforting. From the classic Spaghetti Al Pomodoro to the more unique Spaghettini Al Limone, the pasta dishes are a highlight.
Complimentary Bread and Bruschetta: A thoughtful touch that customers consistently praise is the complimentary bread, breadsticks, and bruschetta provided at the start of the meal, setting a tone of generous hospitality.
Cozy and Romantic Ambiance: The atmosphere is a blend of cozy, romantic, and upscale, with great attention to detail in the decor, from the water glasses to the table setup. It's a fantastic spot for a special occasion.
Attentive and Friendly Service: The staff is known for being very friendly and helpful. They are attentive without being intrusive, creating a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact Sandro's using the information below.

Address: 322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028

Phone: (212) 288-7374

When you're looking for an Italian restaurant that offers more than just a meal, Sandro's is worth choosing for its full, immersive experience. The combination of its romantic, cozy atmosphere and its truly authentic Roman and Northern Italian cuisine is hard to beat. The focus on quality is evident from the first bite of the complimentary bruschetta to the final spoonful of Tiramisu. The pasta dishes are a definite highlight, with customers calling them perfectly cooked and flavorful. The extensive wine list and well-made cocktails further elevate the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely evening.

While the price point may be considered upscale, the quality of the food, the level of service, and the overall ambiance make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable night out. It’s a great place for a date, a celebratory dinner, or simply a night when you want to be transported to Italy through food. The personalized and friendly service adds a layer of warmth that makes you feel like a valued guest. For a truly special Italian dining experience that delivers on all fronts—from food to atmosphere—Sandro's is a top choice on the Upper East Side.

Sandro's Menu

Appetizers
Mozzarella Di Bufala $25.00
Served with cherry tomatos, basil, and EVOO. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Sandro's Polpette
Sandro's-style meatballs. Served with tomato sauce. ***Can contain pistachio To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Burrata $24.00
Burrata served with tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Suppli
Fried Roman rice balls stuffed with mozzarella di buffala. Rice sauteed in bolognese sauce (veal/beef blend, no pork). To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Caprese $21.00
Mozzarella di bufala, tomato, EVOO To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Prosciutto San Daniele With Burrata Or Mozzarella $29.00
Prosicutto San Daniele aged 24months with burrata or mozzarella di bufala To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.

Salads
Insalata Contadina $15.00
Red and green leaf, olive oil, tomatoes and chianti vinegar. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Insalata Classica All'aceto Di Fichi $15.00
Arugula, tomatoes, Parmesan and fig vinegar. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Sandro's Caesar's Salad $16.00
Romaine hearts, organic eggs, anchovies and cheese. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Tropea Salad $16.00
Red onions, cucumbers, tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Pear Salad $18.00
Sliced pear, arugula, gorgonzola cheese, walnuts, lemon vinaigrette (sorry no additions or substitutions. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.

Pastas
Al Pomodoro $24.00
Served with choice of pasta and tomato sauce. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Alla Bolognese $28.00
To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Alla Francescana $28.00
Tomatoes, touch of cream, vodka, and prosciutto To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Rigatoni Con Ragu Di Pomodoro E Polpette $28.00
With tomato, wine, onions, and meatballs. **MAY CONTAIN PISTACHIOS. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Spaghettini Al Limone $28.00
Sandro's specialty creamy lemon sauce. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Rigatoni Amatriciana $28.00
tomato sauce, onion, and guanciale. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Rigatoni Straciatelle $26.00
Rigatoni, tomato sauce, basil, and stracciatella (creamy inside of burrata) To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Spaghetti Vongole $28.00
Spaghetti Arrabiata $25.00
Tomato sauce, garlic, Calabrian chilli pepper, cherry tomatoes, parsley To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Side Of Burrata $11.00
Add a side of imported burrata to any pasta of your choice

Main Courses
Grilled Branzino Filet $40.00
Grilled filet served with a side salad. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Branzino Filet Livornese $41.00
tomato sauce, black olives, capers. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Branzino Filet Picata $41.00
lemon sauce, capers. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Grilled Prawns $42.00
Butterflied grilled prawns, served with tomato onion side salad. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Pollo Alla Bolognese $38.00
Breaded chicken breast, prosciutto, mozzarella, topped with tomato sauce. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Pollo Alla Milanese $31.00
Chicken breast pounded, breaded, lightly fried. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Veal Bolognese $65.00
Veal chop pounded, breaded, lightly fried, topped with prosciutto, mozzarella di bufala, and tomato sauce. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.
Veal Milanese $62.00
Bone in veal chop, pounded, breaded and lightly fried. To reduce waste, kindly let us know if you would like complimentary bread with your delivery by clicking "bread" in the Extras section. If no selection is made then we will not send bread.

Sides
Broccoli Di Rapa $15.00
Sauteed with olive oil and garlic or steamed.
Roasted Potatoes $14.00
Spinach $15.00
sautéed spinach, extra virgin olive oil, lemon

Extras
Extra Cheese On The Side $2.00
Bread For Your Order $0.00
Only choose if you would like to have complimentary bread included with your order
Extra Bread $5.00

Desserts
Sandro's Biscotti $4.00
5 of Sandro's homemade butter cookies.
Tiramisu $12.00

Beverages
Partanna Aranciata $6.00
Organic sicilian blood orange soda

Sandro's Details

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Small plates
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Cozy
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale

Crowd
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
High chairs

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Sandro's Photos

Sandro's Location

Sandro's

New York New York County New York East 86th Street

322 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028, USA

Sandro's Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 278 user reviews.

cacio e pepefood and servicelemonvealhomebread stickscookiesbarburratawine list

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

We came here on a Sunday evening close to closing and they were very sweet and happy to seat us.Ambiance: The bar area is really nice. They have done a great job with table set up as well and I love the colored water glasses. Sandro’s is great for big groups, small groups and dates.Service: everyone was very friendly. Our waiter was very helpful on giving us suggestions on what to order based on our preferences. He also gave us advice on whether certain modifications would work with our meal choices.Food: They started us off with complimentary bread and bruschetta. The bruschetta was really yummy. A classic and simple take on bruschetta which was perfectly seasoned. The bread was also nice and soft. As our entree, I got their vodka sauce with house made fettuccini. The pasta felt perfectly cooked and I really enjoyed the sauce with it. The spaghetti pomodoro was also on point. It had the right amount of pasta or sauce ratio and the sauce was really flavorful.Price: we got 4 entrees and 2 glasses of wine and our meal came out to about $50/person.Insta: @TheShahLALand
June 14 · Forum Shah
Great service and authentic Italian food.When we were seated, they immediately brought out bruschetta, bread, and breadsticks, a thoughtful touch. The salad, cacio e pepe, and wine were all excellent. To top it off, we were brought a warm cookie before heading out. 10/10 recommend.
September 08 · Catherine Fleming
We had a great lunch here! The veal flank was meaty and juicy. We also ordered the apple cake with ice cream for dessert, which made my day.
April 27 · Elsie L
A fine dining NYC chef recommended this spot to me, so when I was in the area for a holiday party, I decided to stop by for dinner with some friends.Now I have to wonder how high that chef was. This was one of the worst Italian meals I've ever had in the city--which is saying something because this city is full of bland, terrible Italian restaurants.The complimentary lentil soup we began with was probably the only thing I really liked. I should've just stuck with a big bowl of that. Instead, we decided to order a few dishes to share: the Bucatini Amatriciana (overcooked), the Spaghetti Con Vongole (watery and bitter), the Fettucine with White Veal Ragu (decent), and the Gamberi Alla Marinara (not spicy in the least, despite the menu warning otherwise).I do appreciate the complimentary lemon cookies at the end, but I wouldn't venture back here even if all of NYC's Michelin-starred chefs proclaimed it their favorite restaurant. Maybe my palate isn't refined enough? Oh well.
July 10 · Josephine Lee
I went to Sandro's thinking that I was going to get a real authentic Italian meal by erroneously thinking that the pretentious prices would satisfy my palate. I was wrong. I didn't like eating food which is meant to go into the garbage. I paid $66 for caesar salad, a sparkling water and a chicken that made me nauceous. I left without eating another bite. The good side of the restaurant is that it is a great place to bring guests to drink wine as long as they don't order any food.
August 05 · The Starlite Show