Sotto la Luna

- 34-39 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106

In a city overflowing with Italian restaurants, Sotto la Luna in Astoria stands out as a genuine culinary destination. Located within the World Artisan Market, this is more than just a place to grab a meal; it's an experience that transports you straight to Italy. With a focus on traditional flavors and fresh, high-quality ingredients, Sotto la Luna offers an authentic taste of Italian cuisine, from classic Neapolitan pizzas to exquisite handmade pasta. The restaurant's name, which means "under the moon," perfectly captures the cozy and romantic ambiance, making it a delightful choice for a special occasion or a relaxed dinner with friends. It’s a true labor of love for its owners, a group of experienced restaurateurs who have brought a touch of Sunnyside's beloved Italian dining to the heart of Astoria.

The atmosphere inside Sotto la Luna is a highlight in itself. As one customer noted, the inviting space, with its open kitchen concept, adds to the overall experience. The design is modern with a rustic feel, featuring high ceilings, an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work, and a welcoming dining area. This blend of casual and trendy makes it a comfortable spot for a variety of crowds, from groups to solo diners. The staff's commitment to service is also a key feature, as mentioned in glowing reviews that praise their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. It’s a place that feels both upscale and approachable, successfully bridging the gap between a high-end dining experience and a local neighborhood favorite.

Sotto la Luna is nestled within the World Artisan Market at 34-39 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106. This prime location places it in a bustling and easily accessible part of Astoria, a neighborhood celebrated for its rich and diverse food scene. Being part of a larger food hall provides a unique and dynamic environment, but Sotto la Luna maintains its own distinct identity. The restaurant is easy to reach by car or public transportation, with both free and paid street parking available in the vicinity. This makes it a convenient spot to visit, whether you're a local resident or coming from another part of Queens or Manhattan.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all. It features both a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, making it a welcoming space for patrons with mobility needs. The family-friendly atmosphere, complete with high chairs for children, also makes it a great choice for a family dinner. Furthermore, the restaurant is pet-friendly, allowing dogs at its outdoor seating. This focus on accessibility and comfort helps solidify Sotto la Luna as a key part of the Astoria community.

Sotto la Luna provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to different customer needs and dining preferences. These services are designed to offer flexibility and convenience, whether you're planning a full dinner or just need a quick bite. They include:

• Dine-in: The restaurant offers a full table service experience, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy their meal in the cozy and inviting atmosphere. It's an ideal setting for a leisurely lunch or a special dinner.

• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: For those who prefer to eat at home, Sotto la Luna provides convenient takeout and curbside pickup options. This allows you to enjoy their delicious food without the wait, simply by calling ahead to place your order.

• Delivery and No-contact Delivery: The restaurant also partners with delivery services to bring its authentic Italian cuisine directly to your door. The no-contact delivery option is available for a safe and seamless experience.

• Reservations: Sotto la Luna accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for dinner. This service allows patrons to plan their visit and ensure a table is ready upon their arrival, which is a great feature for a popular spot.

• Bar Service: With an onsite bar and a great wine list, Sotto la Luna offers a full selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cocktails, and wine. This makes it a perfect place for a drink before or with your meal.

This wide array of service options shows the restaurant's commitment to catering to the diverse lifestyle of New York residents.

Sotto la Luna’s commitment to authentic Italian cuisine and a superior dining experience is evident in its menu and features. Here are some of the key highlights that make it a standout:

• Authentic Neapolitan Pizza: The restaurant is known for its Neapolitan pizzas, cooked in a high-temperature oven for a light, airy dough and a perfectly crispy crust. The menu includes both classic choices like "Pizza Margherita" and more unique options like "Pizza Sotto la Luna" with black truffle and porcini mushrooms. They also offer gluten-free crust for an additional charge, accommodating various dietary needs.

• Handmade Pasta and Italian Classics: Beyond pizza, the pasta dishes are a major draw. A highlight is the "Cacio e Pepe," which is theatrically prepared tableside in a giant Pecorino cheese wheel, a feature that is particularly enjoyable for diners. Other standout dishes include the "Pappardelle with braised duck ragout" and "Lasagna Bolognese."

• Unique Offerings and Daily Specials: The menu features creative and seasonal dishes, with a "Piatti del Giorno" section that changes daily. This keeps the experience fresh and exciting for repeat customers. The menu also includes a variety of Italian heroes, paninis, and an impressive selection of "Tartare," including a unique "Tuna and Watermelon Tartare."

• Great Wine List and Bar: With an onsite bar and a "Great wine list" as a highlight, Sotto la Luna is a fantastic place for wine lovers. The carefully selected list complements the food perfectly, and the bar also offers a range of cocktails and beers.

• Desserts and Coffee: No Italian meal is complete without dessert and coffee. The "Tiramisu" is a particular favorite, and the "Nutella Calzone" offers a fun and decadent finish. The restaurant serves a full range of coffee drinks, from "Espresso" to "Cappuccino," ensuring a perfect ending to the meal.

These features, combined with the fast service and welcoming atmosphere, solidify Sotto la Luna's reputation as a top-tier Italian restaurant in the Astoria neighborhood.

For more information, to make a reservation, or to place an order for pickup, you can contact Sotto la Luna at:

• Address: 34-39 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106, USA

• Phone: (631) 380-3569

For New Yorkers, Sotto la Luna is worth choosing for its authentic, high-quality Italian food and its delightful dining experience. While some delivery-related issues have been reported, the in-person dining experience is consistently praised. The quality of the food, from the flavorful appetizers to the perfectly cooked mains, is a key reason to visit. A customer review highlights the deliciousness of their focaccia and quinoa salmon salad appetizers, as well as the well-crafted pasta dishes and the professionalism of the chef who corrected an undercooked steak, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction.

The unique offerings, such as the tableside Cacio e Pepe, provide a memorable and fun element that sets it apart from other Italian restaurants. The open kitchen and trendy yet cozy atmosphere make it a fantastic choice for a group outing or a romantic date. While some patrons have noted that portions can feel small for the price, the quality of the ingredients and the overall experience often justify it. The excellent wine list and delicious desserts also make it a place where you can enjoy a full and satisfying meal. In a city where Italian food is everywhere, Sotto la Luna stands out for its authenticity, its great ambiance, and its dedication to providing a truly "delightful" experience, making it a must-try for any food lover in Astoria.

Sotto la Luna

34-39 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106, USA