The food was good. Nothing special. But watch out for the slow service... Ambiance was nice. Won't be back in a hurry... read more

Hi LuAnn thanks so much for the suggestion on the Awesome Meatball with spaghetti and the Cod with the potatoes! We really enjoyed the atmosphere and the food. read more

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super cute place- I went when it was decorated for christmas! The service is phenomenal and staff is very friendly! had some great ravioli a la vodka. Inside is slightly small, you definitely need a reservation. read more

From the moment we sat down, we knew we were in for a real treat! As born-and-bred New Yorkers, we have come to expect GREAT Italian restaurants. Luann, Nicky Meatballs' sister, was the perfect hostess, steering us into delicious apps, salads and entrees. If you are a local or coming to visit NYC, you gotta go to Polpette 71! Mangia! read more

Polpette 71, or as we refer to it "Nicky's Meatballs" - Ambiance is warm, cozy and inviting. The restaurant has wonderful brick walls, pleasant lighting and low background music. Seating includes a small bar with ~5 stools, a variety of table sizes to fit just a few, or a larger group, but it feels like you are welcomed into a home, not just a business. You can hear your conversations, it feels intimate, yet like a comfortable community. The menu is just big enough to have a variety of selections ensuring that it is easy to find something for everyone. The prices are very reasonable and the portions are generous. Food is brought out hot and in a timely manner. Their meatballs are fantastic, as are many, many other menu items and specialty cocktails. Business casual to dressy, date night, friends gathering or family meal, this place is that neighborhood gem that you are looking for. read more

1 block from Central Park, this resteraunt is for people who recognize and respect flavorful authentic food. People driven by social media frenzies will not understand. The cabanera sauce...THE SAUCE!!!! Layered with flavor that lingered on the palette. I didn't want to brush my teeth it was so good. And the complimentary bread was an excellent tool to sop up allll of the sauce. The place is NY authentic. Let me explain...there were two couples talking loudly to each other, exchanging quite a few "f" bombs, another long table of middle to older aged gentleman enjoying red wine and talking business and a little politics, the matrady/bar tender/waitress killed the drinks (if you like stiff, get the black widow)...no watered down stuff, the front door had a cracked glass, the waitress was overheared schooling a customer, a wanna be italian cuisine lover....I'm definitely coming back! read more

We ate in the rear patio space. Nice Ambience. Food was very good and the service was excellent and very pleasant.

They are known for their meatballs, so we had to try them. They were amazing! The food was fantastic. Great service, very accommodating and nice outdoor seating. read more

Polpette 71 - Pollo Parmigiana - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

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I ordered takeout from here after visiting a month ago in person and the food being amazing but the portion size and delivery method is horrible. $75 for 10 ravioli splattered all over and some bread was not what I had in mind. The flavor was there but I was left hungry, disappointed, and ripped off read more

Polpette 71 - Lobster Ravioli - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Food was great as was service and ambience. I was saddened to find them closed not long ago.

Decent classic Italian place.. solid flood and pleasant service. I came on a weekday when the establishment opened around 4 pm. Everyone is very lax and welcoming. My server was nice and knowledgeable, he told me his suggestions on what to try as a first timer so I went with the spaghetti and meatballs. I enjoyed the meal, portion size was plentiful and paired it with a Cabernet. All in all a nice visit with nice people. read more

Polpette 71 - Spaghetti and meatballs - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

I had the ravioli alla vodka here, which tasted great. The sauce was super creamy. But overall, the meal was definitely a bit overpriced.

Decent, but not particularly memorable Italian. We got: Caprese- standard fare. Nothing noteworthy to call out, but a fine appetizer. Meatballs- they're apparently known for these. They were good, but I did not feel they were 10x better than other meatballs I've had. Penne Nonna- I'm a fiend for vodka sauce in general and this was quite tasty. Penne was cooked perfectly al dente, vodka sauce was rich, but I feel like this dish was missing an oomph factor- maybe a little red pepper, fresh basil or something to that effect would have jazzed things up a bit. As others have noted, the owners do tend to be a bit curt, so bear that in mind. read more

Old school Italian. Everything was wonderful. Lou was a delight. Welcoming and helpful with menu selections. Best meatballs in the city. Every entree was well prepared and delicious. So good in fact that our party decided to eat at Polpette twice in 3 nights. The squid ink linguine with calamari and shrimp was outstanding. The chicken scarpiello was perfection. Bone in, tender with a rich and savory sauce. Service was spot on , garden room was rustic and a pleasant retreat after a long day. There are a dozen Italian restaurants in the neighborhood but Polpette stands out among the crowd..... read more

During a girl's trip to NYC, we stopped in Polpette for dinner. Surprisingly, we were able to get a reservation only hours before. Now that I've had the experience and the food, I can't believe I was able to get in without short notice! I loved the authentic vibe and ambience of the space. When we arrived, there was a large group and no one else. We were quickly seated, we ordered drinks and decided to get different plates so we could try a little bit of everything. The meatballs are phenomenal! The red sauce is mouthwatering, the portions and flavors are on point. I ordered the black linguini special with grilled shrimp, my sisters ordered salmon piccata and gnocchi and lentil soup and my mom ordered spaghetti and meatballs. For dessert we ordered the chocolate mousse to share. I highly recommend paying a visit here! I think the owners were catering to guests as well. So impressed. 5 stars! read more

Polpette 71 - Black linguini with grilled shrimp (I may have taken a bite before snapping the pic!) - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

We spent a beautiful Fall Saturday in Manhattan and topped the day off with an excellent Italian dinner at Polpette! After visiting the Met, my wife and I strolled through Central Park to the West Side. After finding very helpful Yelp reviews, we met my brother for dinner. We sat inside, however, I did find that there is outdoor seating as well. (They should have asked us before seating if we preferred to sit outside). The dish that this restaurant is known for is their meatballs. I ordered the spaghetti and meatballs and enjoyed it with a nice glass of Chianti. The hype wasn't wrong....the meatballs were outstanding! Everyone else enjoyed their meals as well. The prices here are very reasonable and the quality of the food outstanding. I'd certainly recommend this nice Italian restaurant on the West Side! read more

Polpette 71 - Dinner at a new West Side spot! - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

We moved into the neighborhood where Polpette is a few months ago. Last week we found this gem! It will now be our "go to" for Italian. Truly the best meatballs we have ever eaten (they are famous for them and we had an order as an appetizer). They were delicious and fluffy rather than dense! We both had a dinner special of the evening -- my salmon was outstanding. Our server was Luanne whose brother owns the restaurant. She was delightful, helpful and knowledgable. She made us feel so welcome. Planning to return in the next few days! read more

Food was bland - Alfredo sauce had no flavor, but husband said spaghetti and meatballs were great! Staff was very helpful and nice - minus the main lady - she argued with guests and was rude. Atmosphere feels nicer than causal. read more

Polpette 71 - Tortellini with Prosciutto and Peas and spaghetti and Meatballs - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Another great meal, beautiful place, welcoming staff. Specials are amazing, dessert was delicious. read more

Polpette 71 - a plate of food on a table - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Definitely one of the prettiest backyards I've seen in NYC. And a lovely staff. All the food was OK. But unfortunately I've had much better entrees or meatballs elsewhere, so I wouldn't rush back. But they do have gluten-free pasta and offer 1/2 portions which is great. Awesome drinks. I really liked the Ceasar salad. That was my favorite part! And the desserts were really good too. Now if they'd just pound their chicken paillard much thinner, add more meat to the bolognese, and more salt to the meatballs, I'd happily go back sooner than later. And again, that backyard is really romantic and feels very NOT NYC. It was packed, so people must like it. read more

Polpette 71 - Backyard - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

We were looking for a non-touristy spot with great Italian, and lucked out on this wonderful spot! We started off with the fresh bread, olive oil, and two delicious drinks from the bar. The meatballs were a must try, and we started off sharing the three meatballs in sauce. Our mains were the pappardelle with mushrooms and lobster ravioli. Highly recommended both! read more

Polpette 71 - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

I have walked by this place for years, and I always thought it looked like a great place full of warm and welcoming people, but for some reason, I never tried it. Tonight I found out what I had been missing--a lot. The sign out front claims best Meatballs in Manhattan, and considering we are talking about NYC, that seemed like an outrageous claim, but whatever. So my friends and I were seated on the back patio which is fantastic and unexpected...but really fantastic. Obviously, I ordered the meatballs. I've never had high expectations for a meatball, but...no shit...they have the best meatballs I've ever tasted, and maybe the best in the city...I'm sayin' it's possible. There are a ton of incredible Italian places here--it's New York people, but these meatballs could very likely be the best...it's more than possible. Everything we ordered was excellent. I can't wait to go back--and the prices are really low considering the quality of the food. Finally, if you are looking for a place to impress a date, I guarantee he/she will be excited if you take them here. And even if you don't get lucky later, you won't care because the meatballs are that good. read more

This lovely spot was just down the street from our hotel. We just happen to stumble into it and had an excellent meal with excellent service. One of the owners was there, and was very friendly and gave us some advice on what to eat on the menu. Spaghetti and meatballs was awesome. read more

Polpette 71 - Special salad - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

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Back in the 1980's early 1990's, the wonderful restaurant Los Panchos, which I still miss, occupied the spot that Polpette took over when Los Panchos closed. Shortly after Polpette opened, I dined there and did not very much like the food. I resolved at that time to never return. I kept that resolve until this afternoon. Looking at Polpette's menu online, it seemed interesting; so I decided to give it a try. Again it was disappointing and again I shall keep my resolve to never return. When I entered around 4:30 pm there were 2 other patrons at a table, and the rest of the restaurant was empty. I sat at the bar and ordered a glass of Estrela chardonnay, Tri color salad (arrugula, endive, and radicchio), and veal piccata. The wine was very good. The salad was a large bunch of greens which were fresh but seemed to have no dressing. I didn't eat much and decided to take it home to use my own dressing. The veal piccata sauce was delicious, but the meat itself was of poor quality and not very chewable. I ate only half and half of what I tried to chew ended up on my plate. The side dish of large tube pasta with tomato sauce was good although it could have used a little more sauce. Although I didn't say anything, the kitchen noted that I didn't like the veal, and, to their credit, they took the wine off the balance of my check. As I started to leave, a couple more dinner customers and a new person arrived to sit at the bar. I have no idea why Polpette's reviews are so good. Maybe their pasta is better than what I ate, but I have no intention of returning to find out. For me to return, the restaurant has to be really good and, for the second time, I found it to not be that great. I should have stuck with my original resolve. read more

They rush you before you finish eating they ask the table. Rude. Food was mediocre service was ok nothing special.

We had a great experience celebrating a birthday and a graduation tonight, all servers were great and attentive, love the food and service read more

Polpette 71 - Thank you for having us - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

What can I say....the meatballs are worthy! I could have eaten just these alone and will be back for them again! read more

Polpette 71 - Meatballs - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Wow! Amazing service, high-quality Italian food, and the ambience was perfect for the occasion! Was there celebrating my birthday with my family and couldn't have asked for a better restaurant to be at for my 26th! Nicky and Lue were so welcoming and had us feeling like we were at home! Highly recommend this place and if you're looking for some good italian food then look no further then Polpette 71. Make sure you try the meatballs! 5 stars!!! read more

Stopped in late on a Saturday night with a group of 8 people. This was pretty much the only spot in the neighborhood that was willing to serve us so late and we were thrilled they did. The food was excellent. We started with the homemade meatballs and mozz sticks. Meatballs had an excellent pepper seasoned taste to them and the sticks were also delicious. I ordered the meatball grinder, which we asked to add a side vodka sauce to. Incredible. I tasted my friend's chicken parmigiana which was also flavorful and perfectly cooked. The real winner here was the service, which was perfect. We were even brought free tiramisu for dessert. Can't wait to go back. This family owned restaurant is a winner and we're thrilled we found it. It made my fat friends George and Seymour very happy! read more

Food was alright, despite holding claim to the best meatballs in NYC the pasta is all dry, pre-made. Fresh pasta is not the thing here, at all. Salads were good, as were the fried mozzarella sticks. Bread for the table was nice, the basic bottles of wine were decent. Lobster ravioli was ok, but I've had better. It made me think that I was eating salmon stuffed raviolis. Spaghetti and meatball was ok, and came with a huge serving of pasta but only three medium meatballs. Linguine alfredo was alright but anyone can finesse warming up sauce and dumping it on pasta. What lost a star for me was the ridiculous service. We walked in to an empty restaurant despite having called ahead and being told that we could chance snagging a table without a reservation. Once we arrived there was an awkward pause and confusion as to where to sit us, despite the restaurant being completely empty. We were seated in a little nook that didn't have a tablecloth and felt like the table where the staff sit to eat when on break. I'm not sure what that was about but it wasn't very hospitable. Our waiter was fine enough but it took him a minute to become effective. He improved as the meal went on but I have lingering feelings that I overtipped based on the service. As nice as the back seating area and Marilyn Monroe themed bathroom are, I dont think that I would chance coming back to Polpette 71. The temperamental service mentioned by other reviews, which I wouldn't subject myself to again, made me feel that one visit was enough. I am, more so, saddened that the meatball shop closed and this place is not an adequate substitute. read more

Polpette 71 - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

We eat here whenever we visit NY. A friendly neighborhood spot with attentive service and tasty food. Favorites for us are the meatballs, the carbonara, the spinach ravioli, chicken parm, and the lobster ravioli. Had the breaded zucchini for an appetizer this time and really enjoyed it. The meatballs are definitely delicious--the pasta al dente--and the sauces flavorful. If you're looking for a welcoming, unpretentious place with a wide variety of dishes and flavors, this is it. read more

This was the most comfortable homemade sitdown restaurant I've ever been to! I eat chicken Parmesan, just about every chance I get and this was hands-down. The best experience I've ever had! From the service to the food, I am going to make sure I come back every chance I get! For any Italian food lover, trust this place. read more

Nice Italian food plan UWS, with a spacious back garden. Their meatball is good as advertised. Lobster ravioli is generally good, but the stuffing feels a bit dry and the taste may vary from time to time - once it was too salty. The black linguine with calamari is also a choice, with a good amount of and juicy calamari. read more

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These meatballs are the best I've ever had (don't tell my mom). So good we had to order a 2nd meatball appetizer. Red sauce is delicious. Smooth texture, not too thick, not too watery. Chicken parm was *chefs kiss*. Beautiful caramelization on the cheese. The side of pasta comes in a tiny bowl, which was a little disappointing, but the actual chicken portion was hearty. Will definitely return and try some of the other dishes. Service was attentive and friendly. read more

Polpette 71 - Backyard garden - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

My only explanation for poor reviews is some people must be expecting either "fine dining" or The Olive Garden. Despite the plethora of Italian restaurants in the neighborhood, locals flock here. The regular menu is comforting and delicious. The specials, differing nightly, are divine. The cozy ambiance makes you want to stay with a pillow and blanket. And the staff is always pleasant and welcoming. If you've ever been put off by owner Nicky's sometimes aloof exterior, just think of him as your annoying big/little brother who punched you in the arm because he likes you. read more

Polpette 71 - A special tonight, grilled salmon with roasted red pepper and capers on sautéed spinach and fresh pea risotto. - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

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INSANELY DELICIOUS!!! Went here on a whim in search for good Italian food, and it went above and beyond! The meatballs lived up to their hype (as best in all 5 Burroughs) and the marinara sauce was the best i've ever tasted. The squid ink fettuccine was the most incredible pasta I've ever had!!!!! read more

Polpette 71 - Black Linguini - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

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I went to polpette 71 with these two fine ladies, we were smiling the whole time. I ordered the special with the clams and i literally cried. OUT OF THIS WORLD. Drinks are strong but tasty. The server also totally read our vibe perfectly and was accommodating and professional, but most importantly KIND. I had just had such a bad day and probably looked a little disheveled when we showed up, but I left feeling uplifted by the power of phenomenal italian cooking. Phenomenal. read more

Polpette 71 - My smiling dates - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

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Polpette 71 claims the city's best meatballs and they may be right. The meatballs are light, fluffy and delicious- not to be missed. It's small place just below street level that we stumbled upon about 18 months ago and have made a point of going back every time we visit Manhattan. The owner, LouAnne ("Lou") knows us by name now. After the three meatball appetizer we had one of the most delicious Caesar salads ever - and I eat a lot of them. We got extra dressing to dip the bread in too. For mains we got the lobster ravioli, stuffed full of lobster but with a vodka sauce in lieu of their cream sauce. Every plate licked clean. I also had penne with sausage and broccoli rabe which was also delicious. For Manhattan, the prices are quite reasonable and portions are generous. Well worth a visit. read more

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We stumbled upon Polpette 71 after a day at the American Museum of Natural History, but this place might be the best treasure we experienced! The Sauced Meatballs are better than advertised, the garlic bread was lovely, and the Veal Parmigiana was divine! They really took the time to make us feel welcome and at home! Check it out! You won't be disappointed! read more

Horrible service. Owners treated me horribly I was hoping a bit more of attention since I am disabled. They did not offered to help sitting me down. Thought the world had a it more empathy, instead I heard them laughing in the back because I took too long to seat down. read more