Italian food offers endless variety, but let’s be honest—nothing satisfies like a perfect plate of pasta. Flushing’s culinary landscape was forever enriched when authentic trattorias began weaving handmade noodles with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil. And this Queens neighborhood does a magnificent job honoring that legacy. Many of its finest expressions are in unassuming storefronts, but some gems are hiding in food courts, bakeries, and even converted auto shops, too.
Graziella Restaurant
$$ | (718) 359-6788 | WEBSITE
Great Italian restaurants usually make great garlic knots, and Graziella is no exception to the rule. These ones have everything you want, and nothing you don’t. The presence of garlic is bold enough, the excess of buttery parmesan melts into the dough like snowflakes on a street puddle, and said knots are both a leading role and unobtrusive at the same time—almost like a supermarket’s frozen version got a style makeover. Nab a slice of pizza and plop some on top to make a perfect appetizer.
Vincenzo’s Pizza
$$$ | (718) 969-7434 | WEBSITE
Vincenzo’s specialty combos capitalize on the classic duo of chicken Marsala and shrimp Alfredo—and it turns out that those rich-creamy notes do wonders to elevate our old pal pizza. Despite the addition of buffalo chicken pie, the Alfredo-spiked sauce tones down any possible heaviness, and penne vodka pops in for a subtle tang. Plain slices are MIA from the specialty list, but nobody will stop you from MacGuyvering the phenomenal single slice into a jumbo-sized meal.
The family-friendly atmosphere feels nice with friendly staff, though seating runs a little cramped. With great prices and well-packaged food, this spot is becoming a favorite choice for many seeking a delicious, flavor-packed experience.
Mario’s Meat Market
$$ | (718) 326-7973 | WEBSITE
Hero sandwiches used to be the heartiest meal on the block, and then they kind of faded from the deli scene. This Flushing market, however, makes a compelling case for the stacked, satisfying sandwich. The “NYPD” hero gets built with just about one more ingredient than you think you’d need—the perfect amount—plus balsamic-drizzled arugula that we’d happily pack in a to-go bag, bring to the park, and savor with every generous bite.
The friendly staff offers espresso while you wait, and knowing proceeds support Detective Diller’s family makes each delicious purchase feel even better. It’s a wonderful spot to grab fresh meats, imported goods, and sandwiches wrapped with care—all while showing support for the community.
Vinny’s
$ | (718) 352-8447 | WEBSITE
Thin-crust pizzas can sometimes feel like cardboard with toppings, but not the one at this Flushing Italian spot. Crispy crust is balanced by tangy sauce, a generous blanket of cheese and appropriately distributed toppings. The standout? Fresh mushrooms, perfectly cooked and topped with mozzarella to ensure even heating throughout. Our apologies if you’re on Team Thick Crust.
Piccolo Sogno
$$ | (718) 224-1717 | WEBSITE
After navigating the bustling streets of Flushing with the determined focus of a foodie on a mission, don’t overlook the simple pleasure of a warm eggplant parm at Piccolo Sogno. Yes, this is a family-friendly spot in Queens, but we’ll be honest, they make incredible Italian food. It has that perfectly crispy breading, rich tomato sauce, and generous layers of melted mozzarella. That and a glass of house red, and you’ll be ready to face the takeout line with renewed enthusiasm.
Nonna Delia’s
$ | (718) 445-6662 | WEBSITE
Nonna Delia’s penne alla vodka is not technically alla vodka, as it’s listed on the menu as ‘Penne Ala Vodka with Grilled Chicken.’ But we’re not here to argue semantics—it’s a bowl of pasta with creamy tomato sauce and a generous portion of grilled chicken. Also known as penne alla vodka. The grilled chicken adds savory protein among the al dente noodles, and you won’t even notice that the thing has nary a vodka bite in sight (we didn’t).
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Valentino’s Pizzeria & Restaurant
$ | (718) 591-6464 | WEBSITE
Valentino’s Pasta Valentino is like a culinary revelation. It tastes thoroughly Italian, but the shrimp has the succulence of fresh seafood. Despite this place being a temple of New York-style pizza, the pasta is so rich and satisfying that it (almost) distracts us from perfectly balanced pies.
Martiniello’s Pizzeria IV
$$ | (718) 661-3344 | WEBSITE
It’s essential to try specific items at Martiniello’s IV. Most of them involve pizza, but you also shouldn’t skip the pasta. The crust-to-topping balance is always crisp enough to hold the ingredients without getting soggy, the sauce has herb-infused richness, and you can add chicken for protein satisfaction.
Primo Amore
$$ | (718) 461-6100 | WEBSITE
This Italian gem understands that all special occasions can be improved with authentic cooking. Case in point: their lamb chops. Here, you get practically an entire platter of expertly prepared meat that’s the exact middle of the spectrum between tender and flavorful.
It pairs nicely with fresh linguini primavera, tasty shrimp and avocado salad, and plenty of attentive service strewn around—and the extra dose of care from the octogenarian owner in the kitchen is a special touch that not many restaurants can brag about.
Vinicio’s
$$ | (718) 478-3600 | WEBSITE
No one comes to an Italian restaurant for fried snapper. Unless we’re talking about Vinicio’s. It’s served with encebollado and generous portions, and forms a dynamic duo with the restaurant’s chicken parm. Say what you will about pasta and pizza. This little plate of seafood is the best pairing for penne a la vodka and Hawaiian pizza.