Stories from the Lucciola table: Italian fine dining, wine culture, tasting experiences, private dining, and the people who shape our restaurant on the Upper West Side.

Lucciola Blog

Stories from the Lucciola Table

This is where we collect the ideas, dinners, wines, ingredients, and moments that define Lucciola. Some stories begin in the kitchen, others at the table, others in the cellar. Together, they reflect our way of thinking about Italian fine dining in New York City: with time, coherence, and intention.

Clara Ramazzotti 5/19/26 Clara Ramazzotti 5/19/26

Private Dining in New York: Why Italian Food Turns a Gathering Into a Gift

In December 2025, Italy became the first country in history to have its entire cuisine recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. At Lucciola NYC, that tradition shapes every private dining experience — eighteen seats, one table, and recipes that belong to a heritage now formally worth protecting. From graduation dinners to intimate celebrations, this is Italian food as it was meant to be shared.

Clara Ramazzotti 5/11/26 Clara Ramazzotti 5/11/26

A Graduation Dinner at Lucciola NYC Feels Like a Private Party

Eighteen seats. A tasting menu by Chef Michele Casadei Massari. Lucciola on the Upper West Side is the graduation dinner in NYC that feels like a private party — intimate Italian dining for the people who made the degree possible.

Eleonora Magnanelli 8/28/24 Eleonora Magnanelli 8/28/24

The Allure of White Truffle: A Culinary Gem

Discover the allure of white truffle in our latest article, where we explore its origins, harvesting, and culinary uses. Lucciola is the first restaurant in the USA to feature white truffle on its menu. Come and enjoy the creations of Chef Michele Casadei Massari for a unique culinary experience. Book now for an unforgettable dining experience.

Alberto Ghezzi 6/15/24 Alberto Ghezzi 6/15/24

Beyond Brut Rosé: A Journey Through Billecart-Salmon

Following the resounding success of the 2023 event, Lucciola once again hosted Billecart-Salmon for a culinary journey. Chef Michele Casadei Massari has curated a seven-course tasting menu paired with the latest releases from this Champagne House, including highlights like the 2012 Billecart-Salmon Elisabeth Rosé Vintage and the 2012 Louis Salmon Blanc de Blancs.

Alberto Ghezzi 6/5/24 Alberto Ghezzi 6/5/24

When Wine and Exotic Cars Meet. A Night of Elegance, Sophistication and Patina

On June 4th, at Lucciola, it was not an ordinary night. Wine connoisseurs and exotic car enthusiasts, two communities driven by passion and a keen eye for excellence, gathered for a truly extraordinary event. Like a patina, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the gathering, hinting at the splendor that awaited within.

Alberto Ghezzi 5/23/24 Alberto Ghezzi 5/23/24

Savoring Excellence: A Night with Casanova di Neri

On May 22nd, 2024, Lucciola hosted a special evening. The spotlight shone on the legendary Casanova di Neri estate, whose wines were a siren song for wine lovers.

Alberto Ghezzi 3/21/24 Alberto Ghezzi 3/21/24

Suadela Showcase: An Evening of Italian Wine Excellence

In the heart of New York City's Upper West Side, amidst the bustling streets of the metropolis, a symphony of flavors unfolded on the evening of March 20, 2024. At the esteemed Lucciola restaurant, renowned chef Michele Casadei Massari crafted an unforgettable seven-course menu to accompany the exquisite lineup of wines from Suadela.

Alberto Ghezzi 3/18/24 Alberto Ghezzi 3/18/24

Lucciola: A Gastronomic Gem Crowned Best Restaurant in NYC by the New York State Restaurant Association's RISE Award

In the bustling and eclectic tapestry of New York City's dining scene, one intimate establishment has risen to claim the crown of culinary excellence. Lucciola, nestled discreetly in the city's heart, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Best Restaurant in NYC by the New York State Restaurant Association's RISE (Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence) Award.

Alberto Ghezzi 3/5/24 Alberto Ghezzi 3/5/24

Wine Dinner with Donnafugata at Lucciola

On the evening of Monday, February 26, 2024, Lucciola hosted an unforgettable wine dinner, featuring the exquisite wines of Donnafugata, a beacon among Sicilian wine brands. This event marked Lucciola's second wine dinner of the year, showcasing a remarkable collaboration with Donnafugata, a name synonymous with the best wines from Sicily. Antonio Rallo, the esteemed winemaker from Donnafugata, graced New York City with his presence, bringing with him the rich flavors and heritage of Sicilian wines after a nearly five-year absence.

michele casadei massari 2/21/24 michele casadei massari 2/21/24

Parmigiano Reggiano: A Legacy Carved in Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano: a symphony of complex flavors encased in a crumbly texture, embodying centuries of Italian artisanal tradition and culinary excellence.