TLDR
An under-the-radar Nolita staple serving reliable Italian classics, including standout pizzas, pastas, and gluten-free options, in an unpretentious, low-key setting.
Instagram Posts References
The reviewer visited Emporio and tried a variety of dishes, comparing what they ordered to what they would reorder. They found the whipped ricotta with bread to be a great starter, and the octopus was perfectly cooked. While the ravioli and shrimp dishes were not as memorable, the eggplant parm was a standout. The reviewer also noted a brussels sprout salad that they would go back for.
Emporio in Nolita is featured for its Tiramisu Espresso Martini. The drink is presented with elements reminiscent of tiramisu, including ladyfingers and cocoa powder, suggesting a dessert-like cocktail experience.
Details
A long-standing Nolita gem, this unpretentious Italian spot is celebrated for its consistent quality and relaxed atmosphere [1], [3], [5]. Diners frequently praise its reliable selection of pizzas, pastas, and standout salads, making it a favored choice for both casual lunches and hosting guests [1], [5], [6]. Beyond the main menu, the establishment has garnered attention for its unique dessert cocktails and extensive gluten-free options [4], [7], [8].
Food Overview
The kitchen excels at Italian staples, with high praise for their Neapolitan-style pizzas, perfectly cooked octopus, and signature Tuscan kale salad [1], [3], [8]. Diners also highly recommend the grilled eggplant parmesan and the unique tiramisu espresso martini for a decadent finish [8], [10]. While the whipped ricotta is a celebrated starter, some visitors suggest skipping the artichokes or shrimp dishes, which were described as less memorable [8].
The Tuscan kale salad, whipped ricotta, and grilled eggplant parmesan are highly recommended, along with the creative tiramisu espresso martini [8], [10].
Patrons generally regard the restaurant as a solid, dependable dining experience that eschews trendy hype in favor of consistent, high-quality food [1], [5], [8]. While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some note that outdoor seating options are limited [9].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01pizzas3 mentions
- 02tuscan kale salad3 mentions
- 03tiramisu espresso martini2 mentions
Caveats
Potential diners should be aware that outdoor seating is limited [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About EMPORIO
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Need A Reco For Your Favorite Pizza In Soho That
"Described as an underrated spot with great pizza and pasta."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For A Small Localneighborhood Italian
"The food at Emporio is considered solid by one commenter. However, they noted that it does not have a lot of outdoor seating."
NeutralFrom post: Options For Quieter Italian And Chinese In Midtown
"This commenter suggested Emporio in Nolita as a favorite less 'trendy' Italian spot, noting it's not in midtown."
PositiveFrom post: Where To Go With Parents That Isnt Fussy Hyped
"Emporio was mentioned as one of many restaurant ideas for hosting parents or out-of-town guests."
PositiveFrom post: Best Italian In Little Italy
"This commenter recommended Emporio as a solid, less crowded lunch spot with good Tuscan Kale salad, pizzas, and pastas."
Positive