TLDR
Classic Italian trattoria, beloved UES staple w/ fantastic wood-fired pizza & pasta. Neighborhood gem w/ a lively vibe.
Instagram Posts References
The future of Mezzaluna, an established restaurant on the Upper East Side, remains in question. Despite a previously announced closure that was later withdrawn, the lease has only been extended for a short period. The founder's daughter has detailed the ongoing discussions and considerations regarding the restaurant's continuation in a recent essay, indicating that a final decision has not yet been made.
The post recommends the Penne Alla Vodka with Mozzarella from Mezzaluna on the Upper East Side, indicating a positive dining experience with this classic Italian pasta dish.
Mezzaluna, identified in the report as a "beloved UES staple," is slated to close next week. The closure was confirmed by an employee via phone to East Side Feed, though the specific circumstances or reasons behind this decision have not been made public. This news marks the impending departure of a well-regarded establishment from the Upper East Side community.
Bryan Kim reviews Mezzaluna, an enduring Upper East Side Italian trattoria, praising its classic lasagna, pesto trofiette, and exceptional wood-fired pizza.
Details
Mezzaluna, a long-standing Italian trattoria on the Upper East Side, is celebrated for its classic dishes and vibrant atmosphere [1]. Known for its hearty lasagna, house-made trofiette with pesto, and especially its wood-fired pizza with a thin, chewy, and crunchy crust, the restaurant offers a consistently satisfying dining experience. While most dishes are well-received, the veal milanese is noted as being somewhat over-browned [1].
Food Overview
Mezzaluna offers classic Italian fare, with standout dishes including hearty lasagna, house-made trofiette with pesto, and an exceptional wood-fired pizza known for its thin, chewy, and crunchy crust. The Caesar salad is also highly recommended for its richness and additions like fried prosciutto and a jammy egg [1]. However, the veal milanese is considered less impressive and can be over-browned [1]. The Penne Alla Vodka with Mozzarella is also specifically recommended [2].
Caveats
The future of Mezzaluna has been uncertain, with initial closure announcements being withdrawn but the lease only extended for a short period, leaving its continuation under consideration [3]. One dish, the veal milanese, was noted as being only decent and possibly over-browned [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MEZZALUNA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Napolitanostyle Pizza On Ues Similar
"This user recommended Mezzaluna."
NeutralFrom post: Any 80s Looking Nyc Restaurants Kinda Like Bad
"Mezzaluna was listed as one of the 80s Italian restaurants on the Upper East Side."
NeutralFrom post: Tell Me Your Favorite Reliablecomfylocal Eats
"Mezzaluna on the Upper East Side is recommended for not having long waits."
PositiveFrom post: Things We Ate In Nyc When We Remembered To Eat A
"The user expressed fondness for Mezzaluna on 3rd Ave, mentioning it has been a part of their life since they grew up in the area and is a true neighborhood spot. They were glad to hear the original poster enjoyed it."
PositiveFrom post: Things We Ate In Nyc When We Remembered To Eat A
"The user had a very positive experience at Mezzaluna on 3rd Ave, enjoying the neighborhood feel, the quality of the mozzarella in their salad, their daughter's pasta, and their own pizza. They particularly liked the lively atmosphere created by the other patrons."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"This user clarified that Mezzaluna is more casual in contrast to other suggested upscale restaurants."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"This user listed Mezzaluna among their recommendations, later noting it's more casual than some other suggestions."
Positive