Cafe Fiorello’s tucked right across from Lincoln Center makes it the perfect pre-show dinner spot, but honestly, it’s a star in its own right. The antipasto bar alone is worth the visit – just point at what looks good and they’ll build you a beautiful plate of Mediterranean delights.

The outdoor seating gives you that quintessential New York people-watching experience, especially when the opera or ballet crowd is flowing by in their finery. Inside, it’s all warm lighting and classic Italian restaurant vibes that somehow manage to feel both special and comfortable at the same time.

Their thin-crust pizzas have that perfect char that makes you wonder if they secretly imported their oven from Naples, and the pasta dishes change seasonally so there’s always something new to try. The wine list is impressive without being intimidating, with plenty of Italian options that won’t break the bank.

What really sets Cafe Fiorello apart, though, is that it manages to be a neighborhood joint despite being in one of the most touristy parts of the city. You’ll spot regulars chatting with waiters they know by name, tourists taking photos of their gorgeous plates, and Lincoln Center performers grabbing a late bite. It’s New York dining at its most quintessential.