Bellini (Italian)
1660 Third Avenue (between 92nd and 93rd Streets)
(212) 410-6787

There is no shortage of great Italian restaurants in New York City. They exist in all parts of town and come in all permutations and price ranges. But with its combination of value and dozens of diverse pasta and pizza offerings (plus an additional westside location at 483 Columbus Ave.), Bellini has become a perennial favorite with us. We loved Ecco-la, which used to be in this space, and was delighted to see that a similarly casual Italian place took its spot.

Recommended Dishes
If you like to begin with an appetizer, we recommend that you choose one of the salads. The Insalata di Arugula and the classic Caesar are great, and can be doubled to make an entree if you prefer a light meal.

While the pizzas are great (there is a brick oven, after all!), we suggest you head straight for the pasta. The tender chicken strips and creamy sauce in the Fettuccine Alfredo e Pollo never fails to please anyone we recommend it to, nor does the Spaghetti e Pollo Cacciotore, made with plenty of peppers, onions and mushrooms in a light white wine and tomato sauce. We also enjoyed the traditional spaghetti and meatballs.

The servers are generally attentive and your order will arrive quickly, making this the perfect spot for a bite before a movie, or a lecture at the nearby 92nd Street Y.

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