Roscioli

Roscioli has long held legendary status among pasta devotees who make pilgrimages to Rome specifically for its carbonara. Now, the celebrated Italian institution has touched down in Soho, bringing with it all the meticulous craft and tradition that made the original famous. Tucked into a corner of MacDougal and King, this two-level space blends alimentari charm with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere—think whimsical artwork of retired superheroes and shelves stocked with imported Italian goods.

The pasta here is a masterclass in restraint and precision. The carbonara arrives as a bowl of perfectly al dente rigatoni, each piece cloaked in a silky, emulsified sauce with substantial chunks of guanciale throughout. Pair it with the amatriciana for the full experience—the tomato-based pasta offers a bright, acidic contrast that complements beautifully. The supplì deserve their own moment: crispy rice balls oozing with cheese and meat sauce, dusted with parmesan and cacao. Order one for each person at the table; sharing simply won’t do.

The downstairs cave offers an intimate prix-fixe experience with wine pairings and plenty of stories about the origins of each pour. Upstairs in the alimentari feels more casual—couples in designer loungewear lingering over burrata, parents sharing platters of salumi with their kids, solo diners perched at the counter enjoying the theater of the tiny open kitchen. The burrata preparations are a revelation, especially the version blanketed in Cantabrian anchovies or topped with sweet semi-dried tomatoes.

Save room for the tiramisu, a cloud of whipped cream beneath a blizzard of cocoa powder that will have you scraping the dish clean. Whether you opt for the leisurely tasting menu or graze your way through the upstairs counter, Roscioli delivers an experience that feels genuinely transported—about as close to a Roman dining room as you can get without the transatlantic flight.