When it comes to iconic Italian dining on Long Island, few establishments hold a candle to Umberto’s of New Hyde Park. For decades, this celebrated restaurant has blended family tradition, culinary innovation, and classic hospitality, creating an experience that goes far beyond a typical meal.
The menu at Umberto’s is a testament to the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine, offering everything from rustic pastas to inventive pizzas, each crafted with fresh, authentic ingredients. Guests are invited not simply to eat, but to savor, to explore, and to indulge in flavors that evoke memories of Italian kitchens and convivial gatherings.
Whether you’re a local searching for your next favorite dish or a visitor eager to taste a regional legend, Umberto’s menu promises to delight, surprise, and satisfy. The sheer range of offerings ensures there’s something for every palate, every occasion, and every appetite.
Each dish tells a story—of heritage, of passion, and of a relentless pursuit of excellence—making every visit to Umberto’s a culinary journey well worth taking.
Appetizers and Antipasti: A Flavorful Beginning
The opening act at Umberto’s of New Hyde Park sets the tone for the meal to follow. The appetizer menu is a celebration of both classic Italian flavors and inventive touches, inviting guests to begin their dining experience with a sense of excitement and curiosity.
From the moment you sample their Calamari Fritti, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, you’ll understand why regulars rave about the starters. The Baked Clams Oreganata deliver a briny, herbaceous punch, while the Eggplant Rollatini—tender eggplant rolled with creamy ricotta and baked in house-made marinara—bridges comfort and sophistication.
Sharing is encouraged, with generous portion sizes that evoke the convivial spirit of Italian dining. The Antipasto Misto is a vibrant arrangement of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables, perfect for a table of friends or family.
Each bite bursts with freshness and tradition, setting the stage for the courses to come.
“Every meal at Umberto’s should start with the antipasti platter—it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.”
- Calamari Fritti: Light, crisp, and served with tangy marinara
- Baked Clams Oreganata: Herb and breadcrumb topping, baked until golden
- Eggplant Rollatini: Savory, comforting, and full of flavor
- Antipasto Misto: Selection of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables
For those seeking lighter fare, the menu also features Insalata Caprese, a simple yet stunning combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. The array of appetizers ensures that every guest, regardless of preference or dietary need, finds something to entice the palate.
Pizzas: The Legend of the Grandma Slice
Umberto’s is perhaps most famous for its legendary Grandma Pizza, a Long Island original that has inspired countless imitators but few equals. The pizza menu is a showcase of both tradition and creativity, with each pie reflecting the time-honored techniques and fresh ingredients that are hallmarks of the restaurant.
The Grandma Pie features a thin, crispy crust, fresh mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and a scattering of basil. Baked in a square tray, its edges are delightfully caramelized, offering a texture and flavor that is irresistibly unique.
It’s an experience that has become synonymous with New Hyde Park itself.
Classic vs. Specialty Pizzas
| Classic Pies | Specialty Pies |
| Margherita, Pepperoni, Sicilian | Buffalo Chicken, Eggplant Parmigiana, White Pizza |
Beyond the classic offerings, Umberto’s menu features inventive specialty pies that cater to every craving. The Buffalo Chicken Pizza brings a spicy, tangy kick, while the Eggplant Parmigiana Pizza delights vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
For a luxurious touch, the White Pizza combines ricotta, mozzarella, and garlic for a creamy, aromatic bite.
- Thin-crust and Sicilian options for every texture preference
- Fresh, house-made dough and sauce
- Wide range of toppings, from traditional to inventive
Each pizza is made to order, ensuring a piping hot, perfectly balanced pie every time. Whether you’re dining in, taking out, or ordering for a crowd, the pizza menu at Umberto’s is an experience not to be missed.
Pastas: Tradition Meets Creativity
Few things evoke the spirit of Italian cooking like a plate of perfectly cooked pasta. At Umberto’s, the pasta menu is a masterclass in both tradition and innovation, offering classic favorites alongside unique house specialties.
The heart of the pasta selection lies in its commitment to authenticity. Dishes like Spaghetti alla Carbonara and Linguine alle Vongole are executed with precision, featuring delicate sauces and premium ingredients.
The flavors are robust yet balanced, allowing the quality of each component to shine.
Signature Pasta Dishes
- Rigatoni alla Vodka: Creamy tomato sauce with a hint of vodka and fresh basil
- Penne Arrabbiata: Spicy tomato sauce, garlic, and chili flakes
- Lasagna al Forno: Layers of meat, cheese, and pasta, baked to perfection
- Ravioli di Ricotta: House-made ravioli stuffed with creamy ricotta
For those seeking comfort, the Lasagna al Forno is a must-try. Layers of pasta, seasoned ground beef, creamy béchamel, and melty mozzarella come together for a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options abound, ensuring inclusivity for all diners. The Penne Primavera is a vibrant, vegetable-packed dish that showcases the kitchen’s skill with seasonal produce.
Meanwhile, gluten-free pasta substitutions are available upon request, reflecting a commitment to accommodating modern dietary needs.
“Every forkful of pasta at Umberto’s is a reminder that true Italian cooking is about simplicity, quality, and heart.”
It’s the balance of tradition and creativity that makes the pasta menu at Umberto’s so compelling, providing a dish for every preference and occasion.
Main Courses: Italian Classics and Contemporary Favorites
For those looking to explore beyond pizza and pasta, Umberto’s main courses offer a tour of Italy’s most beloved entrées. The selection spans land and sea, with each dish reflecting the restaurant’s emphasis on quality ingredients and expert preparation.
The Pollo alla Parmigiana is a perennial favorite, featuring tender chicken breast breaded, fried, and smothered in marinara and mozzarella. Meanwhile, the Veal Saltimbocca—tender veal cutlets layered with prosciutto and sage—delivers a sophisticated, savory flavor profile.
Seafood Specialties
- Branzino al Forno: Oven-roasted Mediterranean sea bass with herbs
- Frutti di Mare: Medley of shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari over linguine
- Shrimp Scampi: Jumbo shrimp sautéed in garlic, white wine, and lemon
Each seafood dish is prepared with an eye for freshness and balance, ensuring that the flavors of the sea are neither overwhelmed nor underplayed. The Branzino al Forno is a highlight, with delicate, flaky fish complemented by subtle herbs and olive oil.
For meat lovers, the Costoletta di Vitello—a bone-in veal chop grilled to order—offers a satisfying, robust flavor. The menu also includes a range of steaks and pork dishes, each cooked to guest preference and served with thoughtful accompaniments.
| Chicken | Veal | Seafood |
| Parmigiana, Marsala, Francese | Saltimbocca, Milanese, Piccata | Branzino, Shrimp Scampi, Frutti di Mare |
No matter your choice, each main course is crafted to celebrate the best of Italian culinary tradition while embracing contemporary tastes.
Salads, Sides, and Vegetables: Freshness on Every Plate
Balance and freshness are at the core of Italian cuisine, and Umberto’s takes pride in its array of salads, sides, and vegetable dishes. These offerings are more than mere accompaniments—they are vibrant, flavorful, and essential to the dining experience.
The Insalata Umberto is a house favorite, brimming with mixed greens, olives, roasted peppers, and artichokes, all dressed in a house vinaigrette. For something lighter, the Arugula Salad pairs peppery greens with shaved parmesan and lemon, offering a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes.
- Seasonal vegetables roasted or sautéed
- Classic Italian salads with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes
- Homemade soups, such as Pasta e Fagioli
Side dishes shine with offerings like Sautéed Broccoli Rabe, a slightly bitter green sautéed with garlic and olive oil. The Roasted Potatoes are crisp and seasoned, ideal for pairing with any entrée.
For those who crave comfort, the Polenta Fries are a creative, satisfying option.
“The sides at Umberto’s are so good, they often steal the show.”
These dishes not only support the main courses but also invite diners to create a meal tailored to their tastes, ensuring every plate is as unique as the guest enjoying it.
Kids’ Menu and Family-Style Offerings
Umberto’s is a family-friendly destination, ensuring that younger diners and large groups are well cared for. The Kids’ Menu features simplified versions of Italian classics, designed to appeal to even the pickiest eaters while maintaining the restaurant’s high standards.
Favorites include Mini Cheese Ravioli, Chicken Fingers with Fries, and Personal Pizzas crafted from the same house-made dough and sauce as the main menu. Each dish is portioned for smaller appetites yet never compromises on flavor or quality.
- Kid-friendly options with fresh ingredients
- Allergy accommodations available on request
- Engaging presentations to keep young diners entertained
For larger parties, Umberto’s offers family-style platters of pasta, salad, and entrées. These generous servings encourage sharing, conversation, and a true sense of togetherness at the table.
Whether celebrating a birthday or gathering for Sunday dinner, the family-style menu brings everyone together with ease.
Family-Style Menu Highlights
| Starters | Pasta | Entrées |
| Antipasto, Calamari, Mozzarella Sticks | Rigatoni Vodka, Baked Ziti, Penne Primavera | Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Marsala, Eggplant Rollatini |
It’s the combination of thoughtful kids’ options and robust family platters that makes Umberto’s a destination for all ages, fostering memories that extend far beyond the meal itself.
Desserts and After-Dinner Delights
No Italian meal is complete without a sweet finish, and Umberto’s dessert menu delivers on every front. From classic confections to decadent specialties, the selection is designed to tempt and satisfy every sweet tooth.
The Tiramisu is a perennial favorite, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa. The Cannoli—crisp pastry shells filled to order with sweet ricotta—are a nod to Sicilian tradition and a must-try for first-time visitors.
- Homemade desserts, baked fresh daily
- Gelato and sorbet for a lighter option
- Seasonal specialties like Zeppole during the holidays
For those seeking something truly indulgent, the Chocolate Lava Cake offers a molten center and is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla gelato. The dessert wine list is thoughtfully curated, perfect for lingering over conversation and a sweet treat.
“The cannoli at Umberto’s are the gold standard—crisp, creamy, and unforgettable.”
With a range of options to suit every preference, the desserts at Umberto’s are more than an afterthought—they are a celebration in themselves, ensuring every meal ends on a high note.
Wines, Cocktails, and Beverages: The Perfect Pairings
A well-chosen drink can elevate any meal, and Umberto’s beverage program is designed to complement the diverse flavors of its menu. The wine list is robust, focusing on Italian varietals but also featuring selections from California and beyond.
Signature cocktails, such as the Negroni and Bellini, add a festive touch to any occasion. The bartenders are skilled in both classic and contemporary drinks, ensuring a perfect match for every guest’s taste.
- Extensive Italian and international wine selections
- Craft beers and local brews
- Non-alcoholic options, including house-made lemonades and Italian sodas
Wine Pairing Suggestions
| Dish | Recommended Wine |
| Grandma Pizza | Chianti Classico |
| Frutti di Mare | Pinot Grigio |
| Veal Saltimbocca | Barolo |
| Tiramisu | Moscato d’Asti |
For those seeking something non-alcoholic, the house-made Limonata and San Pellegrino sparkling waters offer a refreshing accompaniment to any dish. The beverage menu is crafted to enhance the dining experience, ensuring that every course—from appetizer to dessert—finds its perfect partner.
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Umberto’s Menu
Umberto’s of New Hyde Park stands as a beacon of Italian hospitality and culinary excellence. Their menu is more than a list of dishes—it’s a carefully curated journey through the flavors, traditions, and innovations that define Italian cuisine.
Each section, from the inviting antipasti to the decadent desserts, reflects a dedication to quality ingredients, expert technique, and genuine hospitality.
What sets Umberto’s apart is its ability to balance tradition with creativity, ensuring that every guest—whether seeking a comforting classic or a bold new flavor—leaves satisfied. The legendary Grandma Pizza is a culinary icon in its own right, but the depth and variety of the menu ensure that every visit offers something new to discover.
Family-style dining, thoughtful kids’ options, and a robust beverage program make it a destination for celebrations, casual meals, and everything in between.
In a world where dining can sometimes feel rushed or impersonal, Umberto’s reminds us of the joy that comes from sharing a meal crafted with care. The menu’s enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, its heart, and its unwavering commitment to making every guest feel like family.
Whether you’re a longtime regular or a first-time visitor, a meal at Umberto’s of New Hyde Park is always an occasion to remember.