Roscioli

Roscioli brings a slice of Rome to the heart of Soho, and it does so without apology. This two-level corner spot on MacDougal Street has quickly become a destination for anyone who believes pasta should be approached with reverence. The walls display paintings of retired superheroes with dad bods, jars of imported Italian goods line the shelves, and there’s even a cheeky nod to American convenience food culture with cans of “Chef Ros-Ci-Oli” spaghetti and meatballs. It’s a place that takes its food seriously while refusing to take itself too seriously.

The pasta here is nothing short of exceptional. The carbonara is the main event—each piece of rigatoni cooked precisely al dente, coated in a sauce so velvety you’ll want to bottle it. Pair it with the amatriciana for the full experience, a tangy tomato counterpart loaded with guanciale and buried under a mountain of parmesan. The burrata selections remind you why this cheese became a phenomenon in the first place, especially when draped with Cantabrian anchovies or sweet semi-dried tomatoes. Don’t overlook the supplì—crispy rice balls that demand one per person, not one for the table to share.

Downstairs, a somewhat treacherous metal staircase leads to an intimate cave-like dining room offering a prix-fixe tasting menu complete with wine pairings. It’s romantic and unhurried, perfect for lingering over glass after glass of Italian wine. Upstairs in the alimentari, the vibe is more casual but no less special—solo diners at the counter, couples in designer loungewear, families sharing plates of cured meats and aged cheeses.

Whether you opt for the full tasting experience or a more casual meal upstairs, Roscioli delivers the kind of dining experience that feels transportive. It’s ideal for date nights, impressing parents, or any occasion that calls for exceptional Italian food and thoughtful wine. Just save room for the tiramisu—it’s mostly whipped cream, and that’s exactly why it works.