Torrisi NYC Review: A Standout Italian Restaurant in New York City

John and I had been looking forward to this dinner for months—well before we arrived in New York City for the Christmas holiday. Torrisi Restaurant & Bar had been firmly on our list, and we were especially excited to celebrate Christmas Eve dinner here while marking the month of our engagement anniversary. New York holds deep meaning for us—John proposed to me in Central Park—and returning to the city during the holidays felt like the perfect moment to revisit that chapter. 

Torrisi is not the kind of restaurant you decide to visit at the last minute. Reservations are famously hard to come by—and for good reason, as the restaurant holds a Michelin star recognized for its high-quality Italian cooking and thoughtful execution. Getting to the restaurant was a breeze. It was about a 10–15 minute car ride from where we were staying at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, making it an easy evening out, especially on a night when the weather was unusually chilly and about to turn to snow, the first New York City had seen in four years! And, it was our first time seeing New York covered in a blanket of white. Absolutely, stunning. 

Inside Torrisi: Design, Atmosphere, Setting, and Michelin Recognition

Torrisi is set within the iconic Puck Building on Mulberry Street, right in the heart of Nolita, and the moment you step inside, you feel the energy of the room. Designed by Garrett Singer Architecture, the interior is charming, stylish, and chic, with layers of detail that invite you to look around and take it all in. In my case, I grab my iPhone and click away, capturing the charming restaurant. 

Vaulted ceilings soar overhead, artwork lines the walls, and every corner feels thoughtfully composed—picturesque without feeling overdone. It’s the kind of space that feels lively and intimate all at once, setting the tone for a memorable evening.

The couple seated next to us were locals and shared a few recommendations on what to order, and we’re so glad we listened. Some of the dishes we chose were part of Torrisi’s seasonal offerings, while others are staples you’ll find on the menu year-round.

What We Ate at Torrisi – Must-Try Dishes!

We started with a fennel-and-grapefruit dish that worked beautifully as a light, refreshing opener. Crisp shaved fennel and bright citrus kept everything clean and balanced, with just enough freshness to wake up the palate without stealing attention from what was still to come. It was simple in the best way and a smart way to begin a long, indulgent meal. 

The house endive salad followed, crisp and beautifully balanced, a perfect lead-in to the main courses. For our mains, we shared the maccheroni amatriciana, and it was easily one of the highlights of the night. The pasta was cooked just right and coated in a rich tomato sauce with a little kick, layered with smoky, savory depth, and finished with that salty bite that keeps you going back for another forkful. It felt comforting and bold at the same time—classic Roman flavors, but with an ease and confidence that felt very New York.

One dish we couldn’t stop talking about was Torrisi’s tortellini, often described as “pillows of happiness,” and that description feels spot-on. The small pasta parcels were tender and comforting, filled with creamy ricotta and coated in a simple, beautifully balanced sauce that let the pasta shine. Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, white truffles were shaved generously at the table, adding an earthy richness that took the dish into hedonistic territory. It was cozy, satisfying, and impossible not to love — the kind of plate that disappears far too quickly, even when you’re trying to pace yourself.

We also ordered the chicken alla griglia, and it completely surprised us. We don’t often eat chicken with the skin on at home, so this felt like a fun change — and Torrisi’s version was wonderful. The chicken was juicy and flavorful, with a perfectly crisp skin and a subtle smokiness that came from grilling over high-quality Japanese coals, the kind chefs prize for giving grilled meats a clean, intense heat without overwhelming smoke. Paired with a rich, complex sauce, it was high in protein and great flavor.

After the mains, a refreshing palate-cleansing sorbet arrived—light, bright, and exactly what we needed before dessert. Torrisi’s much-talked-about affogato followed, though this version is anything but traditional. Instead of espresso poured over ice cream, it arrives layered with vanilla ice cream, fudge sauce, and mascarpone cream, finished with coffee granita that adds contrast and texture. It was decadent without being heavy, a fun and unexpected way to end the meal. 

Just when we thought the evening was complete, a generous plate of cookies and small treats arrived at the table—an extra, thoughtful touch that made the night feel celebratory from start to finish.

FAQ: Dining at Torrisi Restaurant & Bar

What kind of food does Torrisi serve?

Torrisi focuses on Italian cuisine with strong Roman influences, offering bold, comforting flavors presented with a modern New York sensibility. Pastas and grilled mains are standouts.

How do you get reservations at Torrisi NYC?

Reservations at Torrisi are highly sought after and require planning well in advance. Tables are limited, especially for prime dining times and holidays, so securing one often takes persistence. John woke up before sunrise in San Diego to call on New York City time, doing this over multiple mornings until we finally locked in a reservation. It’s not the kind of place you book casually—but if it’s on your list, a little effort goes a long way. LFM Travel Tip: If you can’t land a reservation on Resy.com, try Dorsia.com (a members-only app that provides access to exclusive restaurants).

Is Torrisi worth the effort to get a reservation?

Yes, with its Michelin-star recognition, Torrisi offers a memorable culinary experience, refined Italian cooking, bold flavors, and an atmosphere that balances energy with intimacy. It’s a restaurant that lives up to its reputation and one we’d happily return to. The decor is charming and provokes conversation.

Where is Torrisi located?

Torrisi is located in the iconic Puck Building on Mulberry Street in Nolita, a vibrant neighborhood that’s easy to pair with a walk around downtown Manhattan before or after dinner.

If you’re planning more Italian dining while you’re in the city, we also loved our meal at Rezdôra—here’s our full review of Rezdôra NYC, another restaurant gem worth making time for.