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Rubirosa

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

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In the heart of New York City's vibrant Nolita neighborhood, Rubirosa New York stands as a testament to Italian-American culinary heritage, where paper-thin crust pizzas and time-honored family recipes create an authentic dining experience that captures the soul of immigrant tradition.

Founded in 2010 by Angelo "AJ" Pappalardo, Rubirosa emerged from a 57-year-old family legacy rooted in his father Giuseppe's Staten Island institution, Joe & Pat's Pizzeria. This family-run establishment honors the journey of Italian emigrants to America, transforming generations-old recipes into a modern neighborhood gem. Following AJ's passing in 2015, his sister Maria Pappalardo and partner Bari Musacchio have preserved the restaurant's authentic spirit while earning prestigious recognition, including a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand and acclaim from Food & Wine as one of America's finest pizza destinations.

The cuisine at Rubirosa celebrates the artistry of thin-crust pizza perfection, with each pie showcasing the delicate balance of crispy texture and bold flavors. The Instagram-famous Tie-Dye Pizza mesmerizes diners with its artistic swirls of vodka sauce, tomato, pesto, and fresh mozzarella, while the signature Rubirosa Supreme delivers indulgent satisfaction through Italian sausage, pepperoni, and house-made mini meatballs. Beyond pizza mastery, the kitchen crafts exceptional fresh pastas, including the silken Rigatoni Vodka with its legendary pink sauce and the classic Spaghetti Carbonara featuring al dente strands enrobed in velvety pancetta and Pecorino. The menu extends to refined antipasti, from creamy Fresh Mozzarella to vibrant Arugula Salad, each dish sourcing premium ingredients that honor Italian-American tradition.

The intimate dining room radiates warmth through rustic wood floors, barrel-vaulted pressed-tin ceilings, and a distinctive curved marble bar perfect for people-watching. This carefully curated space evokes nostalgic charm while fostering the convivial atmosphere that has attracted everyone from neighborhood regulars to celebrities like Paul McCartney and Adam Sandler. The full bar complements the dining experience with an Italian-focused wine selection spanning regions from Piedmont to Sicily, alongside classic cocktails and house specialties. Private dining becomes available through the adjacent "Rubirosa Next Door" space, while seasonal outdoor seating extends the welcoming ambiance to Nolita's bustling streets.

For discerning diners seeking New York City's finest Italian-American cuisine, Rubirosa offers an essential culinary pilgrimage where every bite tells the story of family tradition and immigrant dreams. Reservations through Resy are recommended, though the restaurant welcomes walk-ins when space permits, ensuring this beloved neighborhood institution remains accessible to all who appreciate authentic thin-crust mastery.

CHEF

Various

ACCOLADES

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #258

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #157

CONTACT

235 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012

+1 212-965-0500

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

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