Last Updated: 20 days ago
Phone: (212) 274-8881
Address: 55 EAST HOUSTON STREET 10012
Old-school Italian-American trattoria, celeb fave. Classic red sauce dishes, generous portions, no-reservations policy.
Emilio's Ballato in Nolita offers a throwback dining experience with a romantic ambiance, serving generous portions of veal parm, sausage and broccoli rabe, and pasta.
This Nolita gem offers a throwback to classic Italian-American dining, complete with a romantic, vintage ambiance and chandeliers. Known for its generous portions, the menu features highlights like the iconic Veal Parm, hearty sausage and broccoli rabe, and a variety of pasta dishes. It's a family-run spot where the owners make you feel at home, though be prepared for a no-reservations policy for smaller groups.
The restaurant specializes in classic Italian-American red sauce dishes, with particular praise for the Veal Parm, Chicken Parm, and red sauce meatballs. Pasta dishes like Tagliatelle Bolognese and Linguine Vongole are also highly recommended, as are the Scarpariello wings. Some reviews mention the Veal Antonio as a pricey but excellent, shareable option. While many highlight the quality, one user had a negative experience with cold, bland food, calling it the worst meal in years.
"Standout dishes include the Veal Parm, Chicken Parm, red sauce meatballs, and pasta selections like Tagliatelle Bolognese and Linguine Vongole. The off-menu Vitello Antonio and Scarpariello wings are also highly praised."
Customers rave about the authentic, old-school Italian-American experience and classic dishes, though some note difficulties with reservations and wait times.
Important Note
The restaurant does not take reservations for small groups and can have long wait times. Some reviews mention it being difficult to get a table, while others have had no issues. There are also conflicting opinions on its value and whether it lives up to the hype.
"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato for its good meatballs and generally for Italian cuisine."
Positive"The original poster responded to the Emilio's Ballato suggestion, stating that 'fancy' is not a strict requirement and that they are primarily craving cheese ravioli."
Neutral"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato, questioning if it fits the definition of 'fancy' but confirming it has cheese ravioli."
Neutral"This user suggested Emilio's Ballato for its private area, typically reserved for celebrities, requiring a set $200 per person food menu for reservations."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato was recommended, with the caveat that reservations cannot be made and one must go in person to wait."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is described as very old school, classic, and authentically Italian, with a noted sighting of a gangster."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is recommended for its authentic atmosphere, with a mention of seeing a gangster there."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is recommended as an option for an old-school experience, alongside John's of 12th Street."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is suggested as a classic red sauce option, alongside Bamonte's and Monte's, but getting into Ballato's can be difficult due to long lines."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is mentioned as a recommendation."
Neutral"The commenter recommends Emilio's Ballato, noting that they were able to walk in around 5 PM on a Sunday and highlighting the quality of their veal parm."
Positive"The user mentions Emilio's as a place they are definitely going to visit before leaving NYC."
Neutral"The back room at Emilio's Ballato is suggested for its atmosphere that might fit the user's request."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is mentioned as one of the old classics in Little Italy."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is listed as a recommended restaurant in the Little Italy area."
Positive"This commenter strongly advises against Emilio's Ballato for the requested group, calling it a 'TikTok answer' and stating it's not what the group would want."
Negative"Emilio's is recommended as a suitable option for large groups."
Positive"Emilio's Ballato is suggested for its old-school vibe and is considered a great option, though potentially difficult to get a table for seven."
Positive"This is a classic red sauce Italian restaurant with a notable owner often seen at a front table. The user specifically recommended trying the veal parm."
Positive"The user recommended Emilio's."
Positive
