Emilio's Ballato

One of my absolute favorites in NYC, Emilio’s is everything Italian in the city should be. No reservations and only 12 tables, so you have to get there early. Emilio has been there over 30 years, you name the New York celebrity and there’s a picture of them on the wall. Emilio is the father and his son is the head chef - and he’s a genius. If you get to New York City and want Italian, go to Emilio’s Ballato. They’re still putting out food as good as any in NYC. Look at the pictures - wow!

There are Italian restaurants… and then there’s Emilio’s Ballato. A true NYC classic where you might just look over and spot your favorite celebrity twirling pasta. From the moment you walk in, it feels like stepping into timeless New York, warm lighting, walls lined with iconic photos, and that unmistakable aroma of garlic and simmering sauce. We started with the Meatballs & fresh antipasto, a beautiful assortment of thinly sliced prosciutto, savory salami, sharp aged provolone, creamy fresh mozzarella, briny olives, and roasted peppers drizzled in olive oil. Every bite tasted vibrant and authentically Italian. For my entrée, I had the Linguine with fresh clams in olive oil and garlic. The pasta was perfectly al dente, tossed in a silky, garlicky white wine sauce with tender, sweet clams that tasted like they were pulled straight from the sea that morning. Light, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. And yes...they sat us at the table with the Brad Pitt photo. Where else can you have dinner with Brad Pitt? The food wasn’t just great, it was comforting, classic, and executed with confidence. The kind of meal that reminds you why traditional Italian never goes out of style. 55 E Houston St, New York, NY 10012 A true New York institution.

Was walking to get pizza after the Halloween Parade on 6th Ave and my feet hurt so I just stopped here instead of where I was going. The food was excellent. Rucola (especially good), Chicken Parmesan, coffee and Tiramisu. Ate like a pig but enjoyed every bite. Would 100% recommend.

Authentic Italian restaurant with a simple, honest interior. The food is genuinely excellent—hard to find in NYC—and the place feels warm and home-like.

Reminded why this is truly a staple of the new York City Italian and dining scene, came in for lunch about two + months go on a Thursday afternoon and was not disappointed. Had a friend visiting from Dallas and we made sure to try 6/7 dishes and let him see alot of what made Emilios so special. We started with their focaccia w sauce and light cheese, Their massive meatballs (2) in red sauce, the baked oysters (in breacrumbs) and their burrata appetizer specially over fresh prosciutto and tomatoes , so good. Then for our mains we split two pasta dishes and one entree...between the tagliatelle bolognese, Penne w red sauce and the star of the show the veal milanesa (bone in) with the arugula and cherry tomatoes... Sadly we were too full for dessert. But definitely will be back again

Emilio’s is an iconic New York City spot. From the moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by history the walls are filled with photos of famous and notorious people who have visited over the years. During our visit, while waiting to be seated outside, we even saw one of The Sopranos actors. The main actor walked out of the restaurant, which was a cool moment. The only downside was the seating process for dining. You have to wait outside in line until a table opens, and in the middle of a New York City winter, that was rough. We waited over an hour and were honestly frozen by the time we got in. That said, once inside, it was worth it. The restaurant is small, with around ten tables, but it’s very warm and welcoming. The staff was kind, the food was good, and there were plenty of Italian options along with great wine. The vibe was cozy, lively, and perfect for conversation.

Known as a celebrity hot spot checked it out for a late lunch. The walls are covered with pictures of all those who have visited. The chicken parm here is truly the star of the show. Have to say that the food is overpriced. The pasta served was not even warm. The appetizer was bigger than I thought it would be. Order their tiramisu if you still have room in your stomach. You will not be disappointed!

Emilio’s Ballato 55 E. Houston St. New York, NY 10012 This restaurant is high profile. Several celebrities have frequented this spot and the dining area has photos of all the icons who visited. There is usually a line; all customers are required to wait outside because there is no indoor lobby. The focaccia bread was one of the best starters I ever had. It especially went well with olive oil. The cutlet was gigantic. It was pounded thin with crispy edges. While there was a decent ratio of sauce, it was too sweet for my taste. For the most part, I enjoyed the cutlet. However, a major disadvantage is that pasta is not included; I would have to buy a separate entrée. There is not even an option to purchase a side of pasta for an up charge. I would have comprised and paid an additional cost even though the lone cutlet was a whopping $42. #emiliosballato #emiliosballatonyc #chickenparm