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New York

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina offers a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of New York City. With a menu that showcases traditional Neapolitan pizzas, homemade pastas, and classic Italian dishes, the restaurant has become a beloved spot for those seeking authentic Italian flavors. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience for all guests.

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina: Authentic Italian Flavor in New York City’s Upper East Side.

Nestled at 1559 2nd Avenue in Manhattan, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina delivers an irresistible slice of Italy right in the heart of New York City. Renowned for its gourmet wood-fired pizzas and specialty panuozzi sandwiches, this charming eatery offers an authentic Italian dining experience that satisfies both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike.

San Matteo’s cozy, rustic interior combined with ample natural light streaming through large windows creates a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for solo dining, lively group celebrations, or romantic evenings. Outdoor seating is also available, allowing guests to savor their meals al fresco while taking in the vibrant New York street scene. The staff is frequently praised for their friendly and attentive service, adding warmth to every visit.

Indulge in a broad menu featuring classic Italian dishes crafted with fresh, quality ingredients. Guests rave about the authentic wood-fired pizzas, especially the specials like the one topped with fresh ricotta and honey — a must-try that balances savory and sweet beautifully. Complement your meal with a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, cocktails, and espresso, making each dining experience complete.

 are also thoughtfully incorporated, ensuring a satisfying meal for all dietary preferences.

The community sentiment around San Matteo is overwhelmingly positive. Diners frequently commend the authentic Italian flavors and the warm hospitality of the staff. Guests appreciate the relaxed yet inviting ambiance, perfect for groups or intimate gatherings. While some reviews mention occasional variability in service speed and food quality, the overall experience is consistently praised, with many planning return visits.

What are the operating hours of San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina?

 Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Friday to Sunday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM.

Do they offer delivery or takeout services?

 Yes, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina provides both delivery and takeout options.

 Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating for guests.

 Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable.

 Yes, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina is wheelchair accessible.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina is a culinary gem that transports you straight to Italy with its authentic flavors and warm ambiance. Located at 1559 2nd Avenue, this charming eatery is renowned for its gourmet wood-fired pizzas and a delightful selection of Italian dishes. The rustic decor, complemented by sidewalk seating, creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, San Matteo promises a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Italian hospitality.

At San Matteo, every dish tells a story, crafted with passion and the finest ingredients. The standout feature is undoubtedly the **wood-fired pizza**, which boasts a perfectly charred crust and a variety of toppings that cater to every palate. One must-try is the pizza special topped with fresh ricotta and drizzled with honey, a harmonious blend of savory and sweet that will leave your taste buds dancing. Additionally, the pasta specials, made fresh daily, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity.

Beyond the delicious food, San Matteo offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel at home. The attentive staff, known for their friendly service, enhances the experience, ensuring that every meal is memorable. Fun fact: the restaurant's name pays homage to Saint Matthew, the patron saint of tax collectors and accountants, reflecting the owners' roots in Italy and their commitment to authenticity.

Conveniently located on the Upper East Side, San Matteo is surrounded by a variety of attractions that make it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists. Just a short stroll away, you can explore the iconic Central Park or visit the renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art. After a day of sightseeing, indulge in a delightful meal at San Matteo to recharge and reflect on your adventures.

San Matteo is celebrated for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes, all crafted with high-quality ingredients.

The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that highlights the best of Italian cuisine, making it a must-visit spot in NYC.

San Matteo offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, making it convenient for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering with friends, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina is the perfect destination. Come experience the flavors of Italy right in the heart of New York City. We invite you to make a reservation or simply drop by to savor the best pizza and pasta around. Your table awaits!

Gourmet wood-fired pizzas, wine & espresso served in a snug, rustic space with sidewalk seating.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNucXVlR2tnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJlSK2ub5YwokRXuBr8tkYY9w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNucXVlR2tnRRAB

Always a 5 start experience here at the bar or seated in the restaurant, alone, on a date or with a group. We celebrated a ladies night reunion here, and had exceptional, attentive service to make sure we left on time for our show. It was early so we enjoyed a spot to the right of the restaurant enjoying plenty of windows. Lots of space, a welcoming and rustic atmosphere.

There is a broad menu of cocktails, legit Italian pizza and food, esp with the specials! It was very hard to choose! For 6 people, we enjoyed 4 pizzas, a pasta, a couple of salads. We also had the brussel sprouts (decent, but we didn't realize they were roasted!). Food was served hot the waitstaff is fast with requests. Make a reservation, enjoy the authentic Italian pizza! We'll be back!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYdWZHZ05BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJlSK2ub5YwokRXuBr8tkYY9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYdWZHZ05BEAE

Finding a restaurant in NYC that can accommodate a group of 12 and is reasonably priced can be a challenge, but San Matteo was the perfect spot for our birthday dinner. The service was exceptional—attentive, friendly, and welcoming. We were seated upstairs, where the atmosphere was relaxed, avoiding the typical moodiness you get at other restaurants. We tried both the pasta and pizza specials of the night, and they were outstanding—flavorful, fresh, and of high quality. I highly recommend San Matteo for anyone looking for great food and a comfortable, inviting setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIcTZxZUVBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJlSK2ub5YwokRXuBr8tkYY9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIcTZxZUVBEAE

Best authentic pizza on the upper east side. I always order delivery but today I dined in and had the pizza special with fresh ricotta and honey— OMG. So good. Fatmir was so funny and so sweet as our server. Will definitely be back!!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdnJqazJnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJlSK2ub5YwokRXuBr8tkYY9w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdnJqazJnRRAB

This is the first (unique, actually) place that comes to mind when I want to have a authentic Italian pizza... Don't waste your time anywhere else and do yourself a favor, order from them or visit in person. You won't regret.
Note: Do not get distract with the photo because DoorDash does not care about people's food... You cannot taste the photo and I assure you that the pizza was delicious.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMdl9ua1VREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJlSK2ub5YwokRXuBr8tkYY9w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMdl9ua1VREAE

Amazing pizza crust and friendly staffs! Definitely go back here and try other pizza choices the have! Prices are not cheap but not very unfair! Tiramisu and coffee were decent but not exceptional! The only point to improve is the sanity of the restroom as they only have one restroom and it wasn’t clean when I dined over there!

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina: Authentic Italian Pizza in Manhattan

Established in 2010 by brothers Fabio and Ciro Casella, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina has become a staple in New York's Upper East Side, offering authentic Neapolitan cuisine and traditional Italian dishes.

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina History Overview 

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Upper East Side, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina has cultivated a reputation as the go-to destination for authentic Neapolitan pizza and traditional Italian dishes. Since its inception, this establishment has blended old-world culinary craftsmanship with a warm, inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of Italian dining.

 by passionate brothers Fabio and Ciro Casella, San Matteo quickly distinguished itself by staying true to the authentic flavors and techniques of Neapolitan pizza making. This dedication to quality and tradition laid the foundation for its enduring popularity among locals and visitors alike.

By 2012, the restaurant's commitment to genuine Italian cuisine garnered significant attention, earning recognition from The New York Times. This accolade highlighted San Matteo's skillfully crafted pizzas, made with traditional dough and fresh, high-quality ingredients imported from Italy whenever possible.

Responding to growing demand, San Matteo expanded in 2015 by opening a second outlet aptly named San Matteo Take Away. This allowed patrons to enjoy their favorite wood-fired pizzas and Italian specialties on the go, broadening the restaurant’s accessibility while maintaining the same exceptional standards.

San Matteo's culinary excellence was further cemented in 2018 when it was featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide, a testament to its superior quality and authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant’s rustic charm paired with gourmet wood-fired pizzas and a curated selection of wines has made it a beloved fixture on New York’s vibrant restaurant scene.

 - Carefully prepared dough and traditional baking methods ensure that every pizza is a true taste of Naples.

 - The snug space with sidewalk seating creates a welcoming environment perfect for casual meals or special celebrations.

 - Accolades from The New York Times and inclusion in the Michelin Guide underscore the restaurant’s high culinary standards.

From its founding in 2010 to its present-day acclaim, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina exemplifies the vibrant culinary spirit of New York City, offering food lovers an authentic slice of Italy right in Manhattan. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler seeking genuine Italian flavors, San Matteo remains a must-visit destination for wood-fired pizza enthusiasts.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Children

In the heart of Manhattan, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina is a charming eatery that offers gourmet wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta, and a cozy ambiance. This Italian restaurant is a celebration of culinary passion, inviting guests to enjoy authentic flavors in a rustic setting.

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina

Authentic Neapolitan cuisine featuring a variety of pizzas, pastas, and traditional Italian dishes.

Margherita

Napoletana

Marinara

Regina Margherita

Diavola

Mariconda

Capricciosa

Prosciutto e Bufala

Cotto e Bufala

Paesana

Contadina

Vestuti

Cetara

Quattro Formaggi

Patate e Porcini

Porcini e Tartufo

Primavera

Tartufata

Cacio e Pepe

Salsiccia e Friarielli

Burrata

Minala

Siberiano

Centenario

Pizza Roll

Focaccia

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina Menu

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina Menu Overview New York NY USA Upper East Side Authentic Italian Dining Experience Gourmet Wood Fired Pizzas Pasta Specials Vegetarian Options Cocktails Desserts Outdoor Seating Group Friendly Reservation Recommended Relaxed Atmosphere Outstanding Service Fresh Ingredients Italian Classics Local Favorite 2nd Avenue Manhattan 10028 Culinary Delights Starters Mains Desserts Drinks Specials 

Nestled in the vibrant Upper East Side of Manhattan, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina delivers an authentic Italian dining journey characterized by gourmet wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and a welcoming rustic ambiance. This beloved neighborhood spot is ideal for food enthusiasts seeking traditional flavors crafted with the highest quality ingredients, alongside a selection of inventive specials that keep the menu exciting. Whether dining solo, celebrating with friends, or accommodating larger groups, guests enjoy attentive service and a lively yet cozy atmosphere enhanced by plentiful natural light and optional outdoor seating.

San Matteo’s starters are a celebration of classic Italian antipasti with vibrant flavors and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Marvel at the Margherita pizza featuring rich tomato sauce, homemade mozzarella, and fresh basil—a timeless opener. For lovers of bold tastes, the Napoletana offers garlic, oregano, and basil infused tomato sauce, while the Marinara enriches that with black olives, capers, and Sicilian anchovies for a salty, savory punch. The Regina Margherita combines buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and Parmigiano Reggiano, elevating the traditional Margherita with creamy and tangy notes.

 - Homemade mozzarella, spicy salami, cherry tomatoes, Parmigiano Reggiano, and basil blend heat and creaminess perfectly.

 - A rustic combination of homemade mozzarella, mushrooms, black olives, Parma ham, and fresh basil.

 - Creamy mozzarella center with arugula, Castelvetrano olives, cherry tomatoes, and Prosciutto di Parma for a rich starter.

The main courses at San Matteo exhibit mastery in blending tradition with fresh ingredients. Signature pizza options range from the cheese-laden Quattro Formaggi, featuring homemade mozzarella, gorgonzola, Swiss Emmental, and provolone, to the earthy Patate e Porcini with potatoes, porcini mushrooms, Parmigiano Reggiano, and mozzarella. Truffle lovers will relish the Porcini e Tartufo, a harmonious mix of mushrooms, truffle oil, and creamy mozzarella. For those seeking something lighter, salads like the Insalata di Spinaci with fresh pears, walnuts, and pecorino cheese offer refreshing balance.

 - Featuring truffle pâte, prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, basil, and homemade mozzarella for an indulgent flavor.

 - A classic Italian pasta elevation with dry cured pancetta, Cacio Cavallo cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper.

 - Homemade mozzarella topped with savory sausage and bitter broccoli rabe for a robust taste.

Complement your meal with San Matteo’s assortment of coffee and dessert offerings. The classic tiramisu provides a satisfying finish with its smooth layers of mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Pair your meal with expertly crafted cocktails, a curated selection of Italian wines, or freshly brewed espresso to complete the authentic Italian dining experience in a snug yet lively setting.

Chef’s Specials And Seasonal Highlights

San Matteo regularly features specials that showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients with creative Italian twists. Past guests rave about unique pizza specials like those with fresh ricotta and honey, and fresh pasta dishes that highlight bold, vibrant flavors. The specials menu offers a perfect opportunity to explore beyond classic offerings and discover the kitchen’s inventive spirit.

 shines throughout the menu, from the wood-fired crusts to the carefully selected cheeses and cured meats.

 sourced locally and imported from Italy ensure every bite bursts with genuine flavor.

 with ample seating options, including outdoor sidewalk dining, makes it an ideal spot for all occasions.

 caters to diverse tastes with vegetarian options and specialties that delight seasoned pizza aficionados and newcomers alike.

Experience the taste of Italy at San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina where the perfect combination of artisan craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and inviting ambiance awaits. Reservation is recommended to enjoy a memorable meal in this Upper East Side gem known for its consistently outstanding Italian classics and spirited specials.

Savor authentic Italian flavors at San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina in Manhattan. Indulge in gourmet pizzas and homemade pasta today!

San Matteo Pizzeria: Authentic Italian in NYC, Manhattan

New York County

Warm, flavorful sandwiches baked in a wood-fired oven, filled with various ingredients.

Panuozzi

Italian-style turnovers filled with a variety of ingredients, then baked to perfection.

Calzoni

Homemade pasta dishes including Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, and more.

Pasta

Premium dry-aged meats like Ribeye Bone-In and Tomahawk, served with sides.

Dry Aged Meats

Italian charcuterie boards featuring a selection of meats and cheeses.

Taglieri

San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina in Manhattan New York City Upper East Side Italian Dining Experience 

Nestled at 1559 2nd Avenue on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, 

 offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience in a cozy, rustic setting with plenty of natural light. Known for its gourmet wood-fired pizzas, this neighborhood gem balances a snug indoor atmosphere with sidewalk seating perfect for people-watching and enjoying New York’s vibrant street life.

A menu crafted for Italian food lovers and casual diners alike

San Matteo's menu dazzles with a variety of authentic Italian specialties, including their signature gourmet pizzas baked to perfection in a wood-burning oven. Beyond pizza, diners can indulge in housemade pastas, such as the creamy Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina and the peppery Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe, crafted daily with fresh ingredients that highlight traditional Italian flavors.

 – a specialty sandwich featuring charred pizza dough folded and filled with a variety of savory ingredients, then baked to delightful perfection. Priced at $16.95, it's a must-try for sandwich enthusiasts seeking something uniquely Italian.

 – including classics like Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina and Tonnarelli Cacio E Pepe, all crafted from scratch using the freshest ingredients. These dishes are priced around $16, delivering exceptional value and authentic taste in every bite.

 – for a more indulgent experience, savor premium cuts like Ribeye Bone-In and Tomahawk, served with complementary sides such as broccoli rabe and baked pasta. These exquisite meats are priced at $100, perfect for special occasions or meat aficionados seeking top-shelf quality.

Exceptional service and welcoming ambiance

The moment you walk into San Matteo, you're greeted by a warm, rustic atmosphere that feels both relaxed and lively. Whether seated at the inviting bar, enjoying one of the many windows overlooking the street, or dining in the spacious upstairs area perfect for groups, the attentive and friendly staff make every visit memorable. They skillfully handle special requests and accommodate groups up to twelve people with ease.

San Matteo complements its outstanding food offerings with a broad menu of cocktails, wines, and espresso drinks. Guests praise the cocktail selection for its creativity and quality, while the wine list enhances the authentic Italian dining experience. For those with a sweet tooth, desserts like tiramisu provide a satisfying finish to the meal.

Convenience and accessibility for all visitors

 options allow guests to choose their preferred vibe whether enjoying the bustling city views or the cozy interior.

 services cater to busy New Yorkers and visitors who want to enjoy authentic Italian at home.

 include credit, debit, and NFC payments for convenience.

 is a standout destination for anyone seeking genuine Italian flavors coupled with a welcoming atmosphere and versatile dining options on New York City’s Upper East Side.

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