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Emilio's Ballato is renowned for its authentic Italian-American cuisine, warm hospitality, and classic ambiance. While the wait times can be lengthy due to its popularity, many patrons find the experience worthwhile. Signature dishes like Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Pollo Emilio receive high praise. The restaurant's intimate setting, adorned with celebrity photos, adds to its charm. However, some diners have noted that the owner can be scrutinizing, which may affect the overall experience.

Experience Classic Italian Flavors at Emilio's Ballato in Manhattan New York City New York NY USA 55 E Houston St 10012 USA with Authentic Atmosphere and Celebrity Charm for Foodies and Travelers 

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 55 East Houston Street, Emilio's Ballato invites you to step into an iconic slice of New York's Italian-American dining legacy. Known for its classic ambiance and celebrity allure, this timeless restaurant offers a culinary journey full of rich flavors and warm hospitality that resonates with both locals and visitors. Whether you're a passionate foodie craving authentic Italian comfort food or a trend-conscious traveler seeking a genuine New York experience, Emilio's Ballato delivers with a blend of tradition and charm.

Emilio's Ballato shines with its hearty Italian-American dishes that keep diners coming back time and again. Signature plates like the Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and the indulgent Pollo Emilio showcase the kitchen’s dedication to authentic flavors and generous portions. Guests praise the melt-in-your-mouth chicken parmigiana and the vibrant Caprese salad made with freshly crafted buffalo mozzarella. Each dish is a nod to tradition, prepared with care using recipes that have stood the test of time in this bustling New York City hotspot.

When you visit Emilio's Ballato, prepare for an intimate atmosphere where old-school waiters set the tone, and celebrity photos adorn the walls, adding a touch of glamour to your meal. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making the wait line part of the adventure. While service can feel a bit rushed during busy hours, patrons appreciate the charm and authenticity that fill the cozy dining rooms. The owner’s presence adds a quirky, chaotic energy that some find endearing and others find unique to this classic establishment.

- Emilio's Ballato is strictly first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly.

- The busiest hours are dinner time on weekends; arriving before 5 PM is recommended to avoid long waits.

- There is no formal dress code, but smart casual attire is advisable for the setting.

- Emilio's Ballato is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

Does Emilio's Ballato accept reservations?

 No, Emilio's Ballato operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.

What are the peak hours to visit Emilio's Ballato?

 The restaurant is busiest during dinner hours, especially on weekends. Arriving early, before 5 PM, can help avoid long wait times.

Is there a dress code at Emilio's Ballato?

 While there is no formal dress code, patrons are advised to dress appropriately for a fine dining experience.

Does Emilio's Ballato offer takeout or delivery services?

 No, Emilio's Ballato does not offer takeout or delivery services; all dining is on-site.

Is Emilio's Ballato wheelchair accessible?

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Emilio's Ballato enjoys a positive reputation for delivering authentic Italian-American cuisine steeped in tradition. Diners treasure the cozy, old-world atmosphere and the warm service from seasoned waitstaff. While long waits are common due to its popularity, many agree the experience and flavors are worth it. The intimate setting, peppered with celebrity snapshots, adds to its unique allure. Some visitors note that the owner’s hands-on style can affect the vibe, but this eccentricity is part of the restaurant’s charm. Perfect for groups seeking classic dining with a side of New York history, Emilio's Ballato remains a beloved destination for Italian food lovers.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 55 E Houston St, Emilio's Ballato is a culinary gem that embodies the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. This charming restaurant, a favorite among locals and celebrities alike, invites you to step into a world where tradition meets flavor. The moment you enter, the rich aroma of simmering sauces and freshly baked bread envelops you, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Emilio's Ballato is renowned for its hearty Italian dishes that have stood the test of time. The **chicken parmigiana** is a must-try, featuring a generous portion of tender chicken, perfectly breaded and smothered in a rich marinara sauce, topped with bubbling mozzarella. Each bite is a celebration of flavor that transports you straight to Italy. Another standout is the **Caprese salad**, made with fresh, locally sourced tomatoes and creamy buffalo mozzarella that melts in your mouth, drizzled with a balsamic reduction that adds a delightful tang.

What sets Emilio's apart is not just the food, but the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. The restaurant has a storied history, having been a favorite haunt of celebrities for decades. An interesting tidbit: the owner often shares amusing anecdotes from the restaurant's past, adding a personal touch to your dining experience. The walls are adorned with vintage photographs, creating a nostalgic ambiance that complements the culinary journey.

Emilio's Ballato is known for its authentic Italian dishes, particularly the chicken parmigiana and Caprese salad, both of which are crowd favorites.

Due to its popularity and limited seating, guests often wait in line, especially during peak dining hours.

The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, filled with the sounds of laughter and the aroma of delicious food, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.

Emilio's Ballato accepts credit and debit cards, making it convenient for guests.

Whether you're a local or just visiting New York City, Emilio's Ballato promises a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Come savor the flavors of Italy in a setting that feels like home. We invite you to join us for a meal that will leave you with a smile and a full belly.

Old-school waiters set the tone at this longtime Italian restaurant and celebrity hangout.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmX1lXYjF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRQqJgYVZwokRfJB16sxh1Pg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmX1lXYjF3RRAB

Waited in line for 1.5 hours just to see some random tourists cut the line and be escorted into a private room, whatever. The food was mediocre. Who uses shredded lettuce for a caesar salad?? It came super warm and wilted with a couple of very strong anchovies. The clam pasta is supposed to be very popular but the clams were chewy and overcooked, even a little sandy. Wish I had gotten the baked clams first so I would know to change my order because those were just as chewy and gross. Thank god the veal was good because it was $86. Only 2 waiters so service is slow. The owner sits at a table in the front and plays random videos on a mini speaker on the table that plays over the music which added a chaotic charm that I found funny but some might hate. There was no bar menu but every now and then you’d see one-off cocktails being sent to the private dining area. Wine is only sold by the bottle with the average price around $150, come drunk if you come at all.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQeXBpZndnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRQqJgYVZwokRfJB16sxh1Pg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQeXBpZndnRRAB

People stand in line for hours to get in here, so obviously it is good. We stopped by on a Friday just before 4:00 and got right in. Very nice small dining room with amazing food. We started with a Caprese salad that was incredibly good. The tomatoes were delicious and the buffalo mozzarella was incredible - probably made that morning. We also were given bread that would have made a great meal by itself. I then had chicken parmigiana which was (1) huge and (2) melt in your mouth delicious. Best I have ever had and I have had it a lot. My friend had pasta with a Marinara and it too was delicious. Wonderful cozy room, great service (the recommendations were spot on) and incredible food. Just another in a very, very large group of very happy customers.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubDlEdy1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRQqJgYVZwokRfJB16sxh1Pg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubDlEdy1RRRAB

Authenticity and atmosphere star 5. Maybe eat a snack before you wait in line so you don’t pass out from hunger. No reservation allowed and waiting on line over an hour made me cranky and I filled up on 5 pieces of bread waiting over another hour for my food. Nether the less I hadn’t been here in decades so I came and experienced and they were nice. I felt a bit bad for the waiter as he appeared to be working alone which made the service rushed. There’s BTW an additional room in the back with a bit of a wine cellar vibe. We arrived at a bit after 5:30 pm Sunday in light rain and they were already full and there was approximately 10 people ahead of us. I’m not sure how to access quicker entrance, ask at the door. My favorite part of the evening was reading the old newspapers dated from the 70’s on the bathroom wall. The wine is good perhaps I should have drank more. The waiter said the ice machine and soda cooler was broke and I couldn’t have a soda, weird. The food is a bit heavy for my taste and my Caesar salad was sad. Check it out tell me what you think. I lived in Naples Italy 8 years so I’m tainted.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNWRMM01BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRQqJgYVZwokRfJB16sxh1Pg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNWRMM01BEAE

No frills, amazing red sauce, Italian comfort food! Heard great things about the chicken parm here and really needed to check it out for myself. We had the fried calamari, penne arrabbiata, pork chop special and of course the chicken parm. Everything was so delicious - would definitely come back again! Hopefully without  wait again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3cU1HWmZ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRQqJgYVZwokRfJB16sxh1Pg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3cU1HWmZ3EAE

Five stars is not enough for this gem. I honestly hate to even leave a review because I don't think my words can do the food justice. But to anyone who might stumble across this review, everything we tried (a table of three) was indescribably, mind-blowingly amazing. Authentic Italian food with so much flavor that I'm still trying to process the experience months later. Did we wait patiently outside until a table was available? Yes. Was it worth every second? Absolutely!

Emilio's Ballato: Classic Italian Dining in NYC's Soho

Established in 1956, Emilio's Ballato has been serving authentic Italian-American cuisine in New York City for decades. The restaurant is known for its classic dishes and has attracted a diverse clientele, including celebrities and locals alike.

History of Emilio's Ballato in New York City.

Established in 1956, Emilio's Ballato stands as a vibrant testament to authentic Italian-American cuisine in the heart of New York City. For decades, this beloved restaurant has held a special place in Manhattan's dining scene, serving traditional, lovingly crafted dishes that capture the essence of Italian heritage.

The restaurant's journey began in 1956, quickly becoming a cornerstone for traditional Italian-American dining in the city. By 1980, Emilio's Ballato's unique charm and quality fare attracted a notable celebrity clientele, whose photos now proudly adorn the walls, enriching the atmosphere with a sense of timeless glamour and authenticity.

Entering the new millennium, Emilio's Ballato's culinary excellence was formally acknowledged when it was featured in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide in 2000. This recognition affirmed the restaurant's commitment to high-quality Italian-American cuisine and helped cement its reputation among both locals and tourists seeking an authentic dining experience.

Further enhancing its welcoming atmosphere, in 2010 Emilio's Ballato expanded to include a private dining room, offering an exclusive space for special events and intimate gatherings. This addition reflects the restaurant's evolution while honoring its rich heritage, inviting guests to experience a piece of New York City's culinary history in comfort.

 continues to captivate food lovers with its authentic recipes and welcoming ambiance. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its rich history and dedication to the craft of Italian-American cuisine, making it a must-visit for both visitors and locals eager to enjoy a genuine taste of New York City's culinary past and present.

Emilio's Ballato is a charming Italian restaurant located in Manhattan, known for its rich history and authentic cuisine. With a warm ambiance and vintage decor, it offers a delightful dining experience featuring handmade pasta and classic Italian dishes.

Emilio's Ballato

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Watching Sports

Emilio's Ballato is a charming Italian restaurant located in Manhattan, known for its authentic cuisine and warm ambiance. With vintage decor and a menu featuring handmade pasta and classic dishes, it offers a delightful dining experience that feels like a family gathering.

Authentic Italian-American cuisine featuring classic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.

Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

Pollo Emilio

Cacio e Pepe

Clams Oreganata

Baked Shrimp

Vitello Antonio

Spaghetti con Polpette

Caesar Salad

Rigatoni Zucchini

Focaccia

Emilio's Ballato Menu

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Emilio's Ballato serves up authentic Italian-American cuisine bursting with tradition and flavor. This beloved New York institution offers a menu that celebrates classic dishes crafted from fresh, quality ingredients, perfect for food lovers craving classic Italian comfort food.

Kick off your meal with a selection of classic Italian starters that set the tone for the authentic dining experience.

  – Fresh clams baked with garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant flavor.

  – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing with croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

  – Traditional Italian flatbread infused with rosemary and olive oil, perfect for sharing or savoring alone.

Emilio's Ballato showcases hearty Italian-American classics that highlight rich flavors and traditional recipes, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

  – Tender pasta tossed in a rich sauce of beef, veal, pork, tomato paste, and white wine, finished with Parmesan cheese.

  – A classic chicken cutlet elevated with zesty lemon, capers, and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.

  – Simple yet indulgent pasta flavored with sharp pecorino cheese and cracked black pepper for a classic Roman taste.

  – Succulent shrimp baked with garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, and lemon, delivering a bright and savory bite.

  – A standout veal dish served with a rich vodka sauce and delicate prosciutto, embodying Italian elegance.

  – Classic spaghetti paired with flavorful meatballs bathed in a vibrant tomato sauce.

  – Rigatoni pasta tossed with tender zucchini, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a light yet satisfying dish.

Emilio's Ballato offers traditional Italian desserts that provide a sweet finish to your meal, perfectly complementing the savory courses.

Classic Italian desserts such as tiramisu, cannoli, and panna cotta are available to round out your dining experience with authentic sweetness.

Pair your meal with carefully selected wines sold by the bottle, highlighting Italian varietals, or enjoy a crafted cocktail from time to time offered during private dining. Emilio's Ballato also serves beer and coffee, enhancing every dining occasion.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Emilio's Ballato in Manhattan! Experience vibrant flavors and a cozy ambiance. Book your table now!

Emilio's Ballato: Iconic Italian Dining in NYC

New York County

A secluded area for private events, accommodating up to 20 guests.

Private Dining Room

An extensive selection of wines, beers, and cocktails.

Full Bar

Emilio's Ballato New York Experience Overview - Authentic Italian Dining on East Houston Street, Manhattan, NY 10012 USA at 55 E Houston St.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant East Houston Street, Emilio's Ballato stands as a timeless beacon of classic Italian fare and old-school charm. This iconic New York City establishment invites food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike to savor hearty, authentic Italian dishes in a cozy, intimate setting. Known as a celebrity hangout spot, Emilio's Ballato exudes a nostalgic ambiance with its vintage waitstaff and a dining experience that transports you straight to Italy's beloved trattorias.

Emilio's Ballato features a charmingly small main dining room that offers a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for intimate dinners or catching up with friends. For those seeking an exclusive experience, the restaurant offers a 

 accommodating up to 20 guests. This secluded area is ideal for special occasions, business gatherings, or intimate celebrations, blending exclusivity with the restaurant’s signature Italian hospitality.

At Emilio's Ballato, the focus is on hearty Italian comfort foods crafted with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients. Fan favorites include the legendary chicken parmigiana — hailed by many visitors as the best in New York City — with its generous portions and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The menu features classic pastas like penne arrabbiata and clam pasta, alongside other Italian staples such as fried calamari and pork chop specials. While some diners note the dishes can be rich and traditional, the overall dining experience is punctuated by bold, robust flavors that evoke true Italian culinary passion.

Complement your meal with selections from Emilio’s full bar, featuring an extensive collection of wines, beers, and cocktails. The wine list is curated to pair beautifully with Italian dishes, although it is exclusively sold by the bottle. For cocktail enthusiasts, occasional one-off cocktails make appearances, especially in the private dining area. The rich wine offerings and classic Italian drinks make Emilio’s a destination for those who appreciate great beverages alongside traditional cuisine.

Emilio’s Ballato often attracts long lines, especially on weekends, due to its reputation and limited seating capacity. No reservations are accepted for the main dining room, so arriving early or during off-peak hours is recommended. The staff, often comprised of traditional waiters, set a nostalgic tone that longtime patrons cherish. The restaurant’s ambiance is further enhanced by quirky touches, including vintage decor and unique sounds that add to its chaotic charm. While the atmosphere harks back to old New York Italian dining, it remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors craving authentic flavors.

 Reservations are accepted only for the private dining room, while the main dining room operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 Emilio's Ballato does not offer outdoor seating; the experience is centered indoors to maintain its intimate atmosphere.

 Yes, it is good for groups especially in their private dining room that can host up to 20 guests.

Emilio's Ballato remains a quintessential New York City Italian restaurant, blending authentic cuisine, a cozy atmosphere, and a dash of nostalgic charm. Whether you're a foodie seeking classic Italian comfort food, a trend-conscious traveler craving genuine local experiences, or a group celebrating a special occasion, Emilio’s delivers a memorable taste of Italy in the heart of Manhattan.

Discover Emilio's Ballato, a hidden gem in New York City serving delicious Italian-American dishes since 1956. Join us for an unforgettable dining experience!

Experience Emilio's Ballato: Authentic Italian Dining in NYC

Plan your visit to Emilio's Ballato: essential dining tips, menu highlights, and top experiences in New York City’s beloved Italian restaurant. Make the most of your visit!

Itineraries & Tips for Emilio's Ballato

Learn the history of Emilio's Ballato, a NYC dining institution since 1956, famous for its rich Italian heritage and celebrity patrons. Experience Italian excellence!

Emilio's Ballato Menu Overview

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Drinks and Specials

Estela

Leon’s Bagels

Attaboy