Final Meal for Manhattan’s Oldest Italian Restaurant
Barbetta, Manhattan’s oldest Italian restaurant, is set to serve its last meal tomorrow, February 27th. After 120 years on West 46th Street’s Restaurant Row, this beloved establishment is closing its doors.
The decision to shutter the restaurant follows the passing of longtime owner Laura Maiorio, who ran it until she died last month at the age of 93. This site also holds the title of being the city’s longest-running family-owned restaurant.
In a heartfelt farewell message, the restaurant expressed its sorrow about ending its remarkable journey. “Following the passing of Ms. Laura Maiorio, the heart and soul of Barbetta, it is with deep regret that the restaurant will end its remarkable journey with its final day of business on Friday, February 27th.”
Barbetta’s roots go back to 1906 when it was founded by Laura’s father, Sebastiano Maiorio. By 2015, it had gained recognition, even appearing in films like “Arthur” and “Basquiat.”
Occupying four connected 19th-century brownstone buildings once owned by the Astor family, Barbetta has been a cornerstone in the Theater District, attracting Broadway stars, operatic performers, artists, and politicians alike.
Laura Maiorio took charge of the family business in 1962 and spent decades elevating Barbetta to one of the city’s most distinguished Italian dining spots. At the time, regionalItalian cuisine was rare in New York, with most Americans associating Italian fare with simple, red-sauce dishes.
Specializing in Piedmontese cuisine, the restaurant has become known for its consistency and adherence to tradition. Signature offerings included elegant pasta, risotti, and seasonal white truffles, with sourcing done through its own Italian truffle hunters.
Barbetta’s wine selection introduced many New Yorkers to Piedmontese wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco long before they became popular choices.
Another distinctive feature was its thriving garden patio, which opened in 1963 and was among Manhattan’s first outdoor dining spaces outside of Central Park. Over the years, it became one of the most sought-after summer dining spots in the city.
Recognized as a historic institution, it was the first American restaurant to earn this honor from the Locali Storici d’Italia.
In its closing announcement, Barbetta invited patrons to visit before the doors close and noted that many bottles in its wine cellar would be available at half price.
“It was Laura’s wish that our guests continue to flock here in the spirit she cherished. We invite you to join us in these final months to celebrate the food, wine, and memories that have defined Barbetta for generations,” the restaurant stated. “In that spirit, we are sharing our extensive wine cellar and offering bottles listed for $200 and up at half price. Thank you for being a part of our story.”
