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.
Vegetarian options 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.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating for guests.
- Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable.
- Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina is wheelchair accessible.
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.
Founded in 2010 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.
- Authentic Neapolitan Techniques - Carefully prepared dough and traditional baking methods ensure that every pizza is a true taste of Naples.
- Rustic Yet Inviting Ambiance - The snug space with sidewalk seating creates a welcoming environment perfect for casual meals or special celebrations.
- Recognized Excellence - 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.
A cozy Italian eatery in Manhattan, San Matteo offers gourmet wood-fired pizzas and a variety of Italian dishes in a warm, rustic setting.
- Authentic Neapolitan cuisine
- Warm and inviting atmosphere
- Attentive and friendly staff
- High-quality ingredients
- Variety of menu options
- Limited parking options
- Can be busy during peak hours
- Higher price point for some dishes
- No delivery service
Perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or a night out with friends, San Matteo is a great choice for those craving authentic Italian cuisine.
- Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
- Street parking is available but can be limited.
- The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina stands out as a delightful spot for pizza lovers in New York City. With its inviting atmosphere and high-quality dishes, it has earned a reputation among locals and visitors alike. Whether dining in or taking out, guests can expect a satisfying experience that highlights the best of Italian cuisine.
Nestled at 1559 2nd Avenue on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina 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.
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.
- Panuozzi – 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.
- Homemade Pastas – 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.
- Dry Aged Meats – 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.
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.
- Dine-in and outdoor seating options allow guests to choose their preferred vibe whether enjoying the bustling city views or the cozy interior.
- Takeout and delivery services cater to busy New Yorkers and visitors who want to enjoy authentic Italian at home.
- Accessible payment options include credit, debit, and NFC payments for convenience.
San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina 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.
- Location - 1559 2nd Avenue, Manhattan, New York, NY 10028
- Features - Wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, premium dry-aged meats, cocktails, wine, espresso, indoor and outdoor seating, group friendly, reservations accepted
- Accessibility - Takeout, delivery, accepts debit and credit cards, NFC payments, restroom available
