For 25 years, if you wanted one of the most authentic Italian dining experiences in New York City, you made the trip to Astoria, Queens. Tucked among the neighborhood’s celebrated Greek restaurants, Trattoria L’Incontro stood as a beloved institution, drawing loyal diners from across the city for its warm hospitality and memorable Italian cuisine.
So when Chef Rocco Sacramone closed the Astoria location in May 2024 to relocate the concept to Manhattan, many longtime fans were understandably nervous. Could the magic of the original survive the move? After dining at the new L’Incontro by Rocco, the answer is clear: not only has the spirit of the original been preserved—it has been elevated.
The new Upper East Side space feels polished yet inviting. The dining room balances elegance with warmth, while the lively bar area provides a perfect spot for a casual bite or a cocktail. It’s the kind of restaurant that manages to feel both special-occasion worthy and comfortably familiar at the same time.
Highlights from Our Meal
Fresh Bread with Sun-Dried Tomato Spread
A great Italian meal often starts with the bread, and L’Incontro sets the tone immediately. The bread arrived warm and perfectly fresh, paired with a vibrant sun-dried tomato and basil spread that was so flavorful it was hard to stop dipping.
Veal Chop Parmigiana
For the main course, we split the Veal Chop Parmigiana—and it was nothing short of spectacular. The chop was tender, perfectly breaded, and topped with a rich, balanced tomato sauce and melted cheese. It was indulgent without being heavy, and quite possibly one of the best Italian dishes I’ve had in years.
Final Verdict
L’Incontro by Rocco succeeds where many restaurant relocations fail: it preserves the soul of a beloved institution while refining the experience for a new setting. This isn’t simply a new restaurant, it’s the continuation of a New York dining legacy.
If you were a fan of the original Astoria classic, you’ll feel right at home here. And if you’re discovering it for the first time, you’re in for one of the city’s most rewarding Italian meals.
Either way, L’Incontro by Rocco deserves a spot on your list of must-visit Italian restaurants in New York City.