Emporio
About Emporio
Located in the heart of Nolita, Emporio offers a transportive Roman-inspired dining experience that blends rustic charm with the chic energy of downtown Manhattan. The restaurant is celebrated for its wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas like Pappardelle Bolognese, and an atmosphere defined by warm brick walls, vintage-style portraits, and industrial-elegant light fixtures. It is a quintessential neighborhood gem that feels both intimate enough for a first date and grand enough for a milestone celebration.
For private events, Emporio stands out for its unique architectural features—most notably its skylit dining room—and its ability to provide a cozy, authentic Italian setting without the pretense. The cuisine focuses on traditional Roman flavors, featuring fresh ingredients and a wine list that complements its wood-burning oven specialties. Whether hosting a morning brunch or a candlelit dinner, the space adapts seamlessly to the natural light of the day or the moody, warm glow of the evening.
Best For
- Elegant weddings and rehearsal dinners for up to 70 seated guests in the Skylight Room
- Full restaurant buyouts for large corporate holiday parties or celebrations for 90 guests
- Intimate birthday celebrations or cocktail hours for up to 20 guests in the Front Bar Room
- Sun-drenched weekend bridal showers or engagement brunches under the skylight
- Corporate networking receptions featuring passed Italian hors d’oeuvres and wood-fired pizzas
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently highlight the stunning natural light in the back room, noting it creates a beautiful backdrop for daytime photography.
The wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas are consistently praised for their authenticity and high-quality ingredients.
Event hosts often mention the attentive service and the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the capacity limits for the different event spaces?▾
The Skylight Room is the premier private space, accommodating up to 70 guests for a seated meal. For smaller gatherings, the Front Bar Room holds up to 20 guests, while a full venue buyout can accommodate approximately 90 guests for either a seated or reception-style event.
Is the Skylight Room fully private?▾
The Skylight Room is a distinct private area characterized by a massive glass ceiling that floods the space with natural light. It features rustic brick accents and a dedicated atmosphere separate from the main bar area, making it ideal for ceremonies or formal dinners.
What type of cuisine is served during private events?▾
The restaurant specializes in Roman-style Italian cuisine. Event menus typically feature housemade pastas, artisanal wood-fired pizzas, and classic Italian mains. They also offer flexible service styles, from formal seated dinners to elegant cocktail receptions with passed hors d’oeuvres.
Can I rent the entire restaurant for a private function?▾
Yes, Emporio offers full restaurant buyouts for those seeking total privacy and the use of both the bar area and the back dining room, suitable for weddings and larger corporate functions.
Skylight Room
A beautiful private room featuring a large skylight ceiling allowing natural light, brick oven accents, and warm rustic decor. Can be reserved privately for seated dining or events.
Front Bar Room
An inviting front room featuring a cozy bar area with rustic decorative ceiling tiles, wooden counter, and bar stools, ideal for intimate gatherings.
Full Restaurant Buyout
A full restaurant buyout accommodating seated brunch, lunch, or dinner, as well as elegant cocktail receptions with passed hors d’oeuvres and lighter fare.