400 5th Avenue, 2nd Level • The Langham NYC, New York City, NY 10018 • Tel:212.613.8660
When it comes to exceptional Italian dining in Midtown Manhattan, Ai Fiori stands apart as a beacon of refined Riviera-inspired cuisine. Located within the Langham Hotel, this culinary gem elevates coastal Italian and French traditions to luxurious new heights. Midtown, meanwhile, offers a dynamic range of Italian restaurants that cater to every occasion—from celebratory dinners to casual pasta cravings. Explore our curated guide to the most unforgettable Italian dining experiences in Manhattan’s vibrant heart.
Midtown Manhattan boasts a vibrant Italian dining scene where culinary heritage meets modern sophistication. With its high concentration of chef-driven restaurants and walkable proximity to landmarks like Times Square, Bryant Park, and Grand Central, Midtown is ideal for both leisurely dinners and power lunches. Many establishments offer private dining, romantic settings, and sommelier-guided wine pairings. The range spans from rustic trattorias to experimental tasting menus, with several venues offering late-night or 24/7 service.
Ai Fiori is reimagining Italian fine dining through the lens of the French and Italian Riviera. With its newly designed Bar Fiori and a refreshed menu from Executive Chef Lauren DeSteno, the restaurant brings a vibrant, sensual energy to Midtown’s culinary scene. Guests can expect elegant interiors inspired by nautical glamor, a more shareable and inviting menu, and a curated cocktail program that reflects Riviera chic.
Signature dishes include the Lobster Knuckles in garlic butter, Swordfish Brochettes, Langostine Terrine, and the house-made Tagliatelle Royale with lobster and sea urchin. The expanded “Verdure” and crudo sections embrace seasonality, playfulness, and bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ai Fiori offers a variety of private and semi-private spaces, perfect for everything from corporate dinners to intimate celebrations. The options include:
Customized tasting menus begin at $150 per person and come with expert sommelier service for curated wine pairings.
To celebrate dads this year, Ai Fiori is offering a unique experience. The first 25 Father’s Day reservations will receive two complimentary Yankees tickets for any game following Sunday, June 15th (subject to availability). All fathers dining that day will also be treated to a complimentary pour of Papi 10 bourbon—adding a special touch to the occasion.
Visitor Tips:
Book weekend tables 4–6 weeks in advance, especially for special occasions. The dress code is business casual, and seasonal specials, including truffle menus, are well worth inquiring about.
Step into a 1950s-style supper club at Carbone, where red leather banquettes and iconic Italian-American dishes like Veal Parmesan ($52) make it a perennial favorite. Private dining rooms and a bustling celebrity scene contribute to its nostalgic charm.
Nestled in a dimly lit basement setting, Il Mulino is beloved for its intimate ambiance and classic Italian fare. The Black Truffle Risotto ($46) is a standout, perfectly paired with selections from their extensive Italian wine cellar.
A James Beard Award winner in 2024, Rezdôra celebrates Emilia-Romagna’s pasta traditions with modern finesse. Diners can opt for pasta tasting menus and enjoy an open kitchen that showcases every hand-rolled detail.
Securing tables at Midtown’s top Italian spots takes foresight:
Budget-conscious? Consider lunch specials or shared plates. Many restaurants offer BYOB or waive corkage on select nights. Mentioning special occasions can often lead to complimentary extras like desserts or champagne pairings.
Ai Fiori leads the charge with its new seafood crudo bar, pasta-making classes, and expanded al fresco dining on its summer terrace. Across Midtown, hyper-regional Italian menus and digital wine lists are trending, creating more immersive dining experiences.
For a truly elevated Italian dining experience in Midtown, Ai Fiori combines culinary innovation, sophisticated ambiance, and impeccable service. While other venues offer strong alternatives for specific moods and moments, Ai Fiori’s Riviera revival delivers a sense of occasion like no other.
Experience la dolce vita—Midtown style.
