STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island’s dining scene is anything but ordinary. From cozy neighborhood gems to global flavors, the borough once dubbed “forgotten” is now unforgettable for its food and hospitality. Welcome to a vibrant—and sometimes delightfully unexpected—world of eats right here at home.
This year, I’m shaking up the usual “best-of” lists with something more personal: a curated guide to my favorite spots across Staten Island. Think of it as your roadmap to rediscovering the borough—whether you’re a seasoned local or a food lover craving fresh experiences. It’s designed especially for those feeling a little Staten Island food burnout and ready for new, exciting, and reliable dining adventures.
With more than 1,100 restaurants, Staten Island’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its neighborhoods. From classic comfort fare to bold international flavors, there’s something for every craving. And yes, I’ll share my personal favorite at the end—but with so many styles of eats and drinks, this is a journey worth savoring.
Spoiler alert: I love warm service, a great greeting at the door or on the phone, a clean storefront window, seasonal flair, and fresh food. Novel flavors excite this jaded palate, and thoughtful touches—like a killer wine list and house-made flourishes such as bread, pasta, roti, or tortillas—make all the difference. Most of all, I love a place that makes me feel welcome. I’m pretty simple like that.
So, let’s go around the Island—in as few words as possible.
Most Famous
Shaw-naé‘s House – 379–381 Van Duzer St., Stapleton | 845‑595‑8511 | shawnaeshouse.com — A soulful eatery helmed by Shaw-naé Dixon and family, serving Southern comfort classics earning it two stars from the New York Times. Famous for its fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and hearty plates. With just six tables, reservations are a premium—dinner service runs Thursday through Saturday.
Enoteca Maria – 27 Hyatt St., St. George | 718‑447‑2777 | enotecamaria.com — Dinner is crafted by a different Nonna each night—a charming tradition that makes this spot truly special. What makes it even hotter? Its starring role in Netflix’s Nonna’s, featuring a cameo by proprietor and local personality Jody Scaravella.
Rosebank Pizza – 1372 Bay St., Rosebank | 718‑447‑5300 | rosebankpizza.com — Netflix’s Nonnas puts Staten Island on the map with Enoteca Maria in St. George, but Rosebank Pizza shines on the East Shore. Owned by cousins Al and Gino Melani, this Bay Street parlor—featured in The King of Staten Island and steps from Fort Wadsworth—serves classic New York slices and attracts visitors from around the globe.
Panini Grill – 538 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑981‑2999 | paninigrillsi.com — Co-owner Peter Macri has turned Panini Grill into a social media sensation. His Instagram videos showcase far more than panini, earning viral attention and drawing diners from across the region. Known for his catchphrase “non ti preoccupare, tutto apposto,” Macri mixes authentic Calabria roots with charisma, proving that being himself is the recipe for success.
Best Neighborhood Restaurants
Eat Italian – 655 Rossville Ave., Rossville | 718‑966‑4186 | eatitaliannyc.com — A super popular Rossville destination for authentic Italian comfort, featuring classic entrées, lunch specials and warm hospitality in a relaxed setting.
Canlon’s – 1825 N. Railroad Ave., Oakwood | 718‑667‑3013 | canlons.com — A beloved Oakwood institution known for hearty American fare, generous portions, and a welcoming vibe from owner Ed Canlon himself.
Jody’s Club Forest – 372 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑727‑6338 | jodysclubforest.com — A West Brighton landmark and political gathering spot blending old-school charm with elevated pub favorites.
Joyce’s Tavern – 3823 Richmond Ave., Eltingville | 718‑948‑0220 |joycestavern.com — A beloved Irish-American pub since 1966, known for hearty comfort fare, house-made touches, and a warm, neighborhood vibe with live music and seasonal specials.
Bella Mama Rose – 266 Morningstar Rd, Staten Island (Great Kills) | (718) 981‑0545 | bellamamarose.com — A cozy, family‑owned Italian-American restaurant spotlighting brick‑oven pizzas and excellent pork chops.
Lacey’s Bridge Tavern – 75 Innis St., Elm Park | 718- 273‑7514 | laceysbridgetavern.com — A wood‑paneled, family‑style tavern celebrated for its large‑portion Italian classics, fresh seafood, burgers, pierogies and a convivial atmosphere. Regular lobster nights and a raw‑bar make it a top pick for group dining.
Corrado’s Cucina – 831 Arthur Kill Rd., Greenridge | (347-562‑4102 | corradoscucina.com — After years of delays, Corrado’s Cucina opened its doors, serving Southern Italian classics and Neapolitan pizza on the historic site of Al Deppe’s drive-in.
Annadale Terrace – 801 Annadale Rd., Annadale | 718-967‑5900 | annadaleterrace.com — Versatile diner‑style restaurant serving breakfast through dinner, with standout cheesesteaks, vodka wraps and brunch favorites. Welcoming staff and a sizable space that’s also popular for events and celebrations.
Giuliana’s Ristorante – 4105 Hylan Blvd., Great Kills | 718‑317‑8507 | giulianassi.com— Old‑school ambience and prix‑fixe lunch/dinner are perks as well as a full bar, outdoor patio, and live music weekends. There’s something for everyone in a place known for refined dishes like lobster ravioli, fried artichokes, and chicken franco.
Bravo Pizza & Sports Bar – 413 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑317‑1010 | bravopizzasi.com — A vibrant, family‑owned pizzeria and sports bar open daily from 11 AM to 1 AM. Known for fresh‑dough pizzas (including Buffalo chicken, vodka, gluten‑free and stuffed pies), plus wings, calzones, pastas and burgers. With over 35 TVs, a full bar, happy‑hour deals, live music and karaoke nights, it’s a go‑to spot for game‑watching and casual gatherings—complete with catering and private‑party service.
The Manor House – 917 Manor Rd., Castleton Corners | 718‑698‑4433 | manorrestaurantsiny.com — A neighborhood pub steeped in old Staten Island charm, serving classic comfort fare (remember Afternoone’s of West Brighton?) and bottomless brunches in a warm, welcoming setting that feels like home. Plus, the pizza is great.
Best Mexican
Maizal – 990 Bay St., Rosebank | 347‑825‑3776 | maizalrestaurant.com – A stylish spot for modern Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors, craft cocktails, and an upscale yet relaxed vibe perfect for date nights.
Cafe Con Pan – 32 New Dorp Plaza, Port Richmond | 347‑861‑0364 |cafeconpanny.com – A cozy Mexican café and bakery (Ovenbake of yesteryear) serving fresh-baked breads, pretty cakes and homestyle dishes with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Oaxaca Pizzeria Deli & Taqueria –1240 Castleton Ave., West Brighton| 718‑556‑9416 – A neighborhood favorite blending Mexican staples with pizza and classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner —don’t miss super fresh house-made salsas.
Yolpaqui Taqueria –1431 Forest Ave., Port Richmond| 718‑524‑4201 | happytacostore.com Authentic Mexican street food in a casual setting, known for bold flavors, fresh tortillas, and a menu that h.
San Jeronimo & Plaza San Jeronimo Deli – 461 & 465 Port Richmond Ave., Port Richmond | 646‑982‑8665 (Restaurant) | 718‑273‑7711 (Deli) – Two family-run gems just steps apart: Plaza San Jeronimo Deli is a decade-old market with a handful of tables serving authentic Puebla-style eats, house-pressed tortillas, and comforting pozole, plus hot drinks like café de olla and champurrado. A few doors down, San Jeronimo Restaurant offers a full regional Mexican menu with molcajetes, birria tacos, fajitas, and house-baked conchas—all in a sit-down setting with a full bar.
Best Vietnamese
Banh Mi House – 565 Manor Rd., Castleton Corners | 347‑861‑7473 | banhmihousenyc.com — A casual Vietnamese eatery specializing in authentic banh mi sandwiches layered with house‑made pâté, pickled veggies, and bold flavors. Also offers pho, rice bowls, and bubble teas in a bright, modern setting.
Pho Mac – 1407 Richmond Ave., Bulls Head | 718‑982‑9292 — A cozy spot for traditional Vietnamese comfort food, featuring steaming bowls of beef pho, fresh spring rolls, and vermicelli dishes. Known for generous portions and a welcoming, family‑friendly vibe.
Pho 60 – 2602 Hylan Blvd., Suite C, New Dorp | 929‑631‑0003 | pho60statenisland.com — A contemporary Vietnamese restaurant serving fragrant pho, banh mi, and creative appetizers. Sleek décor and attentive service make it a favorite for casual dining and takeout.
Best Middle Eastern
Laila – 45 Page Ave., Richmond Valley | 718‑984‑0006 | lailarestaurant.com — Authentic Syrian restaurant and lounge inspired by flavors from Damascus. Known for its vibrant mezze like baba ganoush, chicken shawarma, kebabs, and house‑made desserts in an elegant, Middle‑Eastern ambiance with live entertainment and event catering.
Zara – 2655 Richmond Ave., Graniteville | 833‑247‑2473 | zaraforest.com — Turkish‑Mediterranean spot serving kebabs, mezze and homemade desserts in a casual, family‑friendly setting. Offers dine‑in, takeout and catering in a warm, modern dining room.
Opera Bistro and Lounge – 1650 Hylan Blvd., Dongan Hills | 718‑979‑9775 | operacafelounge.com — Turkish‑Mediterranean bistro‑lounge offering breakfast through dinner, including Turkish omelets, gozleme, kebabs, grilled seafood and slow‑cooked lamb shank. Features full bar, weekend live music, event space and warm, attentive service.
Best Seafood
Inca’s Grill Peruvian Kitchen – 126 Lincoln Ave., Grant City | 718‑448‑0488 | incasgrillnyc.com — Peruvian specialties with a seafood focus, including ceviche, arroz con mariscos, and authentic flavors in a cozy, vibrant setting.
Coral Bay Café – 722 Rockaway St., Tottenville | 718‑356‑3501 | Coral Bay on Instagram — A waterfront-inspired café offering fresh seafood dishes, casual bites, and a laid-back vibe perfect for brunch or dinner.
Cole’s Dockside – 369 Cleveland Ave., Great Kills | 718‑948‑5588 | colesdockside.com — A waterfront Italian‑seafood destination known for fresh catches, classic pastas, raw‑bar favorites, and generous portions. Highlights include baked clams, blackened shrimp and scallops, and seafood paella, all served in a scenic harbor‑side setting with a full bar and casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Seabass Taverna – 365 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑808‑4110 | seabasstaverna.com — Mediterranean seafood tavern offering family‑style mezze, fresh fish selections, and small plates. Diners can choose their catch and have it grilled, baked or pan‑seared. The warm, vibrant space features craft cocktails, vegetarian options, and attentive service—ideal for casual yet refined dining.
Best Brunch
Lorenzo’s – 1100 South Ave., Bloomfield | (718) 477‑2400 | lorenzosdining.com — An elegant on-site restaurant and cabaret at the Hilton Garden Inn, Lorenzo’s offers modern Italian-American cuisine with live piano, occasional cabaret, craft cocktails, and a warm, art-filled ambiance that feels both upscale and welcoming.
The Historic Old Bermuda Inn – 301 Veterans Rd W, Rossville | (718) 948‑7600 | theoldbermudainn.com — This Victorian-era landmark housed in a restored parsonage delivers timeless charm with its scenic botanical grounds, gracious staff, and versatile space for weddings, brunches, and cozy meals. It’s a sprawling Sunday-brunch favorite where historic ambiance meets hearty American fare.
J’s on the Bay – 1189 Bay St., Rosebank | (718) 720‑0922 | jsonthebaysiny.com — A vibrant 50s-style New American eatery from Chef–owner Joe Salimeni, J’s serves gourmet diner fare, milkshakes, and weekly specials.
Best Steaks
Raval Steakhouse – 12 Minthorne St., St. George | 718‑247‑2323 | ravalsteakhouse.com — Premium American-cut steaks in a modern urban setting. Known for expertly grilled USDA prime and Wagyu cuts, creative sides, and a lively atmosphere
Ruddy & Dean American Steakhouse – 44 Richmond Terrace, St. George | 718‑816‑4400 | ruddyanddean.com — Waterfront steakhouse near the Ferry, offering prime-aged cuts, fresh seafood, signature sides like lobster mac & cheese, and rooftop dining with Manhattan views.
Millie’s Old World Meatballs & Pizza – 185 Bricktown Way, Charleston | 929‑284‑4004 | milliesoldworld.com — Family-run eatery with charcoal and wood-fired pizzas, plus a surprising steak menu that complements its old-world Italian steaks and meatballs. Casual yet modern vibe.
West Shore Inn Steakhouse – 3955 Victory Blvd., Travis | 718‑698‑9722 | westshoreinn.com — Voted Staten Island’s #1 steak two years running. Old-school steakhouse featuring generous prime cuts, seafood platters, Tomahawk Wednesdays, and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
Best Indian
Taste of India II – 287 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑987‑4700 | tasteofindia2.com — Classic Indian dishes from tandoori specialties to rich curries, served in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Best Sri Lankan
Lakruwana – 668 Bay St., Stapleton | 347-857‑6619 | lakruwanarestaurant.com — Family‑run Sri Lankan restaurant offering a weekend brunch buffet that includes aromatic curries (pineapple, eggplant, pork), kottu roti, hoppers and more. Known for bold flavors, vegetarian‑and-vegan options, BYOB and a vibrant, cozy atmosphere filled with cultural décor.
Best Value in Fine Dining
The Staaten – 697 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑448‑6000 | thestaaten.com — A Staten Island institution for banquets and elegant dining, featuring classic Italian-American fare and impeccable service.
Bella Vita II – 1919 Hylan Blvd., Dongan Hills | 718‑667‑7666 | cafebellavita.net — Upscale Italian dining with house-made pastas, seafood, and a refined yet approachable vibe.
Casa Verde – 3155 Amboy Rd., Richmond | 718‑987‑5600 | casaverdesi.com — Contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and stylish presentation.
Cole’s Dockside – 3691 Richmond Ave., Great Kills | 718‑948‑5588 | colesdockside.com — Waterfront-inspired dining with seafood specialties, steaks, and a lively bar scene.
Patrizia’s – 4255 Amboy Rd., Great Kills | 718‑317‑8500 | patrizias.com — Family-style Italian dining with generous portions, festive atmosphere, and signature pasta dishes.
Best Italian
Fiore di Mare – 227 Mansion Ave., Great Kills | (718) 227‑9771 | fioredimaresi.com — A cozy Great Kills gem blending classic and contemporary Italian fare in a welcoming, familiar atmosphere. With a menu featuring fresh seafood, signature pastas, and creative house dishes, Fiore di Mare brings a taste of Italy to Staten Island’s southern shore.
La Bottiglia – 293 Port Richmond Ave., Port Richmond | 929‑364‑0505 | labottigliarestaurant.com — Modern Italian spot with a transporting dining room, creative cocktails and solid dishes that include house-made desserts.
Bocelli (Antica Osteria Bocelli) – 1250 Hylan Blvd., Grasmere | 718‑420‑6150 | Bocelli on Instagram — Elegant Italian dining with house-made pasta, refined wine pairings, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Brioso – 174 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑667‑1700 | briosoristorante.com — Classic Italian dishes and pizza served in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Trattoria Toscana – 4200 Hylan Blvd., Great Kills | 718‑605‑6009 | trattoriatoscanasi.com — Tuscan-inspired menu featuring fresh seafood, rustic pasta dishes, and warm hospitality.
Angelina’s Ristorante – 399 Ellis St., Tottenville | 718‑227‑2900 | angelinasristorante.com — Elegant waterfront dining with refined Italian cuisine and stunning views.
Il Sogno – 26 Jefferson Blvd., Annadale | 718‑356‑7800 | ilsognonyc.com — Upscale Italian dining with a romantic ambiance and seasonal specials.
La Strada – 139 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑667‑4040 | cafelastrada.com — A longtime Staten Island favorite since 1987, La Strada offers authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional service in a warm, inviting setting.
Italianissimo – 107 McClean Ave., South Beach | 718‑442‑4442 | italianissimony.com — Traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Don Cheech – 1271 Bay St., Rosebank | 718‑285‑4401 | doncheechnyc.com — Trendy Italian-American eatery blending old-school flavors with modern flair.
Basilio Inn – 6 Galesville Ct., Staten Island | 718‑720‑6835 | basilioinn.com — Historic Italian restaurant dating back to 1921, offering garden-grown herbs and authentic recipes in a bucolic setting that includes a bocce court and outdoor dining spaces.
Trattoria Oliveto – 1642 Hylan Blvd., Dongan Hills | (347) 466‑5556 | olivetonyc.com — A family-owned gem steeped in Mediterranean heritage and olive oil tradition, Trattoria Oliveto offers cozy elegance and standout Italian–Southern European dishes like mushroom ravioli, grilled octopus, seafood fra diavolo, lamb chops and penne vodka.
Most Romantic
The Stone House at Clove Lakes – 1150 Clove Rd., Clove Lakes Park | 718‑442‑3600 | thestonehousesi.com — Picturesque setting for upscale dining and special occasions.
Sapori Ristorante – 3800 Richmond Ave., Eltingville | 718‑210‑0388 — Intimate Italian spot with a focus on seasonal dishes and attentive service.
Cielo Ristorante – 1435 Hylan Blvd., Dongan Hills | 718‑668‑2211 | cielosi.com — Chic Italian dining with a modern twist and romantic ambiance.
Marina Cafe – 154 Mansion Ave., Great Kills | 718‑967‑3077 | Marina Cafe on Facebook — Waterfront views paired with fresh seafood and classic Italian fare.
Blue Restaurant – 1115 Richmond Terrace, Livingston | 718‑273‑7777 | bluerestaurantnyc.com — Contemporary dining with Mediterranean influences and scenic harbor views.
Best Diners
Andrew’s Diner – 4160 Hylan Blvd., Great Kills | 718‑948‑8544 | andrewsdiner.com — Classic diner serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and Greek food in a family-friendly atmosphere. Everything is made from scratch including bread.
Oakwood Diner – 3161 Amboy Rd., Oakwood | 718‑668‑1570 — Neighborhood staple for all-day breakfast, sandwiches, the traditional diner fare and elaborate dinner specials.
Island Coffee Shop – 407 Manor Rd., Castleton Corners | 718‑720‑5606 — A perfect New York City coffee shop serving generous portions with a staff that knows everyone’s name—or makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in.
Best Late-Night
Guac Time Mexican Grill – 961 Jewett Ave., Meiers Corners | 718‑290‑9631 | guactimeusa.com — Quick-service Tex-Mex spot with a salubrious bent serving tacos, burritos, and bowls—fresh, flavorful, and a step above the usual fast-food rivals.
Boots – 120 Bay St., St. George | 347‑466‑0167 — A new and lively spot for booze and hot dogs with a late-night crowd and casual vibe; open Thursday through Sunday nights after 8:30 p.m.
The Coupe – 379 Van Duzer St., Stapleton | 718‑269‑0668 | thecoupenyc.com — A sister spot to Boots with a broad and stylish cocktail program offering creative drinks and small plates until 4 a.m. daily.
Best Community-Driven Restaurants
On Your Mark Café – 639 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑981‑8100 — A weekday cafe serving hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and baked goods while supporting a training program for individuals with special needs. Plus, the staff runs a gourmet chocolate shop next door.
Harvest Café – 694 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp Beach | 347‑857‑6888 | harvestcafe-si.org — A cozy, community-driven spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner, operated by A Very Special Place to support meaningful programs with every meal.
Pienza Brick Oven Pizza Café – 1441 South Ave., Bloomfield | 347‑825‑2415 | pienzapizzacafe.com — A social enterprise eatery led by Lois and Richard Nicotra, living by the motto “Mangia bene, fai bene—eat well, do good.” All profits fund scholarships and local nonprofits. Inspired by Tuscany, Pienza serves brick-oven pizzas and fresh fare made with produce from its own rooftop organic farm.
Commons Café – 2 Teleport Dr., Staten Island, NY 10311 | (347) 466‑4207 | commonscafesi.com — A fast-service, mission-driven café located in the Corporate Park, offering breakfast, burgers, fresh salads, and more. Founded by Lois and Richard Nicotra, it donates 100% of its net profits to Staten Island nonprofits and scholarships. Open weekdays mornings through mid-afternoon with indoor and outdoor seating
Best Burger
Ralph’s Sports Bar – 1571 Richmond Rd., Dongan Hills | 718‑351‑7200 | ralphssportsbar.com — Sports bar serving juicy burgers, wings, and owner Ralph Tafuri’s mom’s excellent Italian cooking.
Duffy’s Tavern – 650 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑447‑9276 | duffystavernnyc.com — Neighborhood tavern known for its hearty burgers, cold beer, and friendly atmosphere.
Doc Hennigan’s – 1144 Forest Ave., Westerleigh | 718‑816‑8822 | officialdochennigans.com — A local favorite for burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food with a welcoming vibe.
Best Chinese
East Pacific – 171 New Dorp Ln., New Dorp | 718‑351‑8888 | eastpacificsi.com — Pan-Asian dining with a focus on Chinese, Thai, and Japanese flavors. Known for its sushi rolls, noodle dishes, and chef specials in a sleek, modern space perfect for dine-in or takeout.
Loon Chuan – 225 Richmond Ave., Bulls Head | 718‑494‑8888 | loonchuansi.com — A long-standing favorite for authentic Thai and Malaysian cuisine. Signature dishes include spicy curries, pad Thai, and roti canai, served in a casual, family-friendly setting with attentive service.
Yao’s Kitchen – 752 Forest Ave., West Brighton | 718‑815‑0161 | yaoskitchensi.com — A neighborhood favorite for authentic Chinese dishes, including dumplings, stir-fries, and chef specials in a casual setting.
Oriental Plaza – 1845 Richmond Ave., Bulls Head | 718‑761‑8668 | orientalplazastatenisland.com — Elegant dining room serving Cantonese and Szechuan specialties, plus dim sum and seafood dishes.
Hong Kong Kei One – 4207 Hylan Blvd., Great Kills | 718‑948‑9700 | hongkongkeione.com — Known for traditional Chinese flavors, fresh ingredients, and a wide selection of noodle and rice dishes.
Best Sushi
Omakase Ichi – 4116 Amboy Rd., Great Kills | 718‑285‑6988 | Omakase Ichi on Instagram — A refined Japanese dining experience specializing in omakase-style tasting menus. Guests enjoy chef-curated courses of premium sushi and sashimi, crafted with seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation in an intimate, minimalist setting.
Ocean Sushi – 20 Jefferson Blvd., Annadale | 718‑966‑6888 | oceansushisi.com — Fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese specialties in a cozy, modern space.
Tokyo Sushi – 1710 Victory Blvd., Castleton Corners | 718‑727‑1771 | tokyosushisi.com — Classic sushi bar offering creative rolls and traditional Japanese dishes.
Sushi Wen – 856 Castleton Ave., West Brighton | 718‑816‑8279 | sushiwenny.com — A local gem for sushi lovers, featuring specialty rolls and attentive service.
Best Off-the-Beaten Path
The Basement – 11 Schuyler St., St. George | 718‑791‑0027 | thebasementnyc.com — A hidden cocktail lounge with craft drinks, small plates, and a speakeasy vibe.
Jaquilita Laundry & Deli – 343 Broadway, Staten Island | 718‑273‑1500 — A quirky combo spot where you can do laundry, shop for groceries, and grab dinner—all under one roof. Tacos, rotisserie chicken, and takeout favorites come from the tiny restaurant in back. Dine by the washing machines or take it to go—either way, it’s Staten Island convenience with character and Tide.
Alba Market & Restaurant – 1880 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island | 718‑667‑1343 | Alba on Instagram — Specialty market and next door eatery serving Eastern European dishes and imported goods with a restaurant on the side. Fresh baked burek bread and housemate sausages are among the notable items coming from the kitchen. No booze.
Basilio Inn – 6 Galesville Ct., Staten Island | 718‑720‑6835 | basilioinn.com — A historic Italian restaurant tucked at the base of a gravel driveway, its rustic charm rooted in longtime tradition. Owner Maurizio Asperti keeps things delightfully old-school—closing each winter until the snow melts—so when it’s open, diners are treated to hearty, authentic Italian fare in a cozy, time-worn setting that feels like visiting a countryside trattoria.
Best Markets for its restaurants
La Bella Marketplace – 99 Ellis St., Tottenville | 718‑317‑8500 | labellamarketplace.com — Gourmet grocery with Italian specialties and an on-site café where you can satisfy cravings immediately—perfect for when the inventory makes you too hungry to wait.
ShopRite of New Dorp – 2656 Hylan Blvd., New Dorp | shoprite.com — A modern supermarket that doubles as a dining destination. Inside, you’ll find a food court featuring Valducci’s Pizzeria, Loon Chuan for Asian specialties and Dunkin’ plus a very good deli department. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a casual meal while shopping.
Best Eastern European
Lilya’s Cafe Gourmand – 548 Lincoln Ave., Grant City | 718‑351‑7575 | gourmandny.com — Cozy café offering Russian and Eastern European pastries, varieties of pierogi, savory dishes, and quirky entertainment that includes a happy-birthday singing robot.
Best Spot for Caviar
Blue Pearl – 37 Navy Pier Ct., Stapleton | 718‑727‑0303 | bluepearlnyc.com — Upscale seafood and caviar bar with elegant plates, Verrazano Bridge view and peek at the harbor.
#2 For 2025
Chang Noi Thai – 100 Stuyvesant Pl., St. George | 718‑442‑8424 | changnoithaistatenisland.com — A cozy, neighborhood gem just a five-minute walk from the Staten Island Ferry, specializing in authentic Thai cuisine. Known for standout dishes like Drunken Noodles, Tom Yum soup, Panang and Green curries, and even crispy Branzino with ginger, it offers strong flavors, generous portions, and a sweet, welcoming vibe. They serve beer, wine and cocktails.
#1 for 2025
Pastavino – 44 Navy Pier Ct., Stapleton | 718‑556‑9300 | pastavinosi.com — A clear winner with the service — crisp and professional with knowledgable, seasoned staff. From the kitchen to the front-of-the-house with a seasonal menu and pastas made in-house, the attention to detail makes this a Staten Island’s premier dining destination. The waterside location with sweeping harbor views and sleek dining room also make it super special.