Nolita, a charming neighborhood nestled between NoHo and Little Italy in New York City, boasts a vibrant culinary scene. While known for its trendy boutiques and historic architecture, Nolita also offers a surprising number of excellent places to enjoy a simple yet satisfying roasted chicken. This guide explores 13 of the best spots to find delicious roasted chicken in Nolita, catering to various tastes and budgets. We’ll delve into what makes each restaurant stand out, helping you choose the perfect place for your next chicken craving.
Finding Your Perfect Nolita Roasted Chicken: A Neighborhood Guide
Choosing the best roasted chicken is subjective; it depends on your preferences for flavor, preparation style, and overall dining experience. This guide provides a diverse range of options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, ensuring you find a perfect fit.
Casual & Convenient Roasted Chicken Spots in Nolita
These options are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or takeaway.
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Joe's Shanghai (Multiple Locations): While famous for soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai also offers a surprisingly good roasted chicken. Their preparation emphasizes simplicity, allowing the chicken's natural flavor to shine. Expect juicy meat and crispy skin.
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Prince Street Pizza: Known for its iconic New York-style slices, Prince Street Pizza also serves up a solid roasted chicken. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a casual, no-frills meal to complement your pizza.
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Rubirosa (Multiple Locations): Similar to Prince Street Pizza, Rubirosa prioritizes its pizza but delivers a dependable roasted chicken if you're looking for a casual pairing with Italian-American classics.
Upscale Nolita Restaurants with Exceptional Roasted Chicken
These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, often with unique preparations and side dishes to elevate the classic dish.
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Carbone (Greenwich Village - Nearby): Though technically not in Nolita, Carbone’s proximity and reputation for high-quality Italian-American cuisine warrant a mention. Their roasted chicken is a luxurious treat, prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
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Via Carota (West Village - Nearby): Another slightly off-Nolita option, Via Carota offers a charming, rustic setting and a fantastic roasted chicken as part of their seasonal menu. Expect innovative takes on the classic dish.
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Lilia (Williamsburg - Further Afield): This highly acclaimed Brooklyn restaurant might require a slightly longer journey, but its exceptional roasted chicken is worth the effort. Their menu showcases seasonal ingredients and a sophisticated take on the classic.
Diverse Nolita Options: Beyond the Typical Roast
Nolita’s culinary diversity extends beyond traditional roasted chicken. These restaurants offer interesting alternatives or unique preparations:
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Balthazar (SoHo - Nearby): Balthazar is a classic SoHo brasserie with a sophisticated atmosphere. While not specifically known for roasted chicken, their poultry dishes are always of high quality.
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Centovini (Little Italy - Nearby): This Italian restaurant in nearby Little Italy often features roasted chicken dishes as part of their specials menu. It’s worth checking their daily offerings.
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Emilio's Ballato (Little Italy - Nearby): Similar to Centovini, Emilio's Ballato, another Little Italy establishment, offers a varied Italian menu that may include roasted chicken dishes.
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La Esquina (Nolita): This hidden gem serves delicious tacos and other Mexican fare in a unique setting. While not known for roasted chicken, their other dishes are worth exploring if you're looking for something different.
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Dimes (Nolita): Dimes offers a healthy, plant-forward menu. While they may not have traditional roasted chicken, their menu changes seasonally, and they often incorporate poultry in unique, interesting ways.
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Jack's Wife Freda (Multiple Locations): This Mediterranean restaurant is known for its creative dishes, and while not always featuring roasted chicken, its inventive approach to poultry deserves consideration.
Choosing Your Nolita Roasted Chicken Adventure
The best roasted chicken in Nolita depends entirely on your personal preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Atmosphere: Do you want a casual, quick bite or a more refined dining experience?
- Price: Budgets vary widely across these restaurants.
- Flavor Profile: Some restaurants offer classic preparations, while others provide innovative twists.
This guide provides a solid starting point for your Nolita roasted chicken journey. Remember to check restaurant menus and reviews before your visit, as seasonal offerings and availability may vary. Enjoy your culinary exploration of this delightful New York City neighborhood!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average price for a roasted chicken in Nolita?
A: Prices range widely, from around $20 for a casual meal to upwards of $40 for a more upscale experience.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options at these restaurants?
A: Most of the restaurants mentioned offer a diverse menu beyond roasted chicken, including vegetarian and vegan choices. Check their menus for details.
Q: Which restaurants are best for takeout or delivery?
A: Joe's Shanghai, Prince Street Pizza, and Rubirosa are generally good options for takeout or delivery. Check their individual websites for specifics.
