Grotta Azzurra, founded in 1908, is a legendary Italian restaurant in NYC's Little Italy. Named after the famous blue grotto in Capri, it became a favorite of stars like Sinatra and De Niro. After a hiatus, Grotta Azzurra has been revived by chef Frank Castellana, offering authentic Italian cuisine that transports guests to the Mediterranean.
Founded by the Davino family, Grotta Azzurra was designed to capture the essence of the famous Blue Grotto on the island of Capri. The restaurant has been a cornerstone of Little Italy for over a century.
Legendary Patrons
Grotta Azzurra has hosted countless celebrities and luminaries over the decades, including Frank Sinatra, Robert De Niro, and Enrico Caruso, who would often dine here after performances.
Explore a World of Flavor with Us!
Grotta Azzurra Instagram
Discover the soulful spirit of Italy through our vibrant Instagram feed!
Grotta Azzurra is founded by the Davino family, who wanted to bring the beauty and romance of Italy's Blue Grotto to New York City.
2
1930s
The restaurant becomes a hub for Italian-American culture and a favorite haunt of legendary celebrities like Frank Sinatra.
3
Present Day
Grotta Azzurra continues to preserve its rich history and tradition, offering guests an immersive Italian dining experience in the heart of Little Italy.
The restaurant's stunning architecture, featuring arched stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and ornate lighting fixtures, creates an atmosphere of old-world Italian charm.
Attention to Detail
From the crisp white linens to the formal attire of the waitstaff, every aspect of the Grotta Azzurra experience is carefully curated to transport guests to the Mediterranean.
Intimate Ambiance
Cozy, candlelit tables and live music create an intimate, romantic atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Italian dining experience.
Order Online for Delivery or Takeout
Preserving Tradition and Excellence
Time-Honored Recipes
Grotta Azzurra's kitchen staff meticulously prepares each dish using traditional Italian cooking methods and family recipes passed down through generations.
Commitment to Quality
The restaurant sources the finest, freshest ingredients to ensure that every plate they serve is a testament to the excellence of Italian cuisine.
Exceptional Service
Grotta Azzurra's attentive and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience that honors the restaurant's rich history and tradition.
Find Events & Make Friends
Discover Cuculi, the social dining platform that connects you with exciting dining events and like-minded people.
Looking for a unique place to host your next event and impress your guests? Grotta Azzurra the authentic Italian Restaurant, located in Little Italy is your perfect event space.
Whether celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary or a lucrative business deal, entertaining out-of-town clients with an upscale reception, or plan a wedding rehearsal dinner, corporate event, business lunch/dinner or any other special occasion that demands an excellent meal and hospitality, Grotta Azzurra Restaurant offers the perfect setting for your event.
Grotta Azzurra offers versatile accommodations and a wide selection of menu choices for any size gathering. We can accommodate private parties of almost any size in our restaurant. Our warm and welcoming Wine Cellar Room creates a casual atmosphere, while our staff delivers the best of food, drink and Italian hospitality for your seated event for up to 60 guests or your standing events for up to 90 guests.
Indulge in the flavors of Italy, escape to romance, or dive into the history of Little Italy - Grotta Azzurra awaits. Explore a slice of Italy right in the heart of New York City.