L’Incontro by Rocco is a fine Italian restaurant on the Upper East Side serving traditional Italian dishes with a touch of elegance. The hospitality was warm and genuine, with great attention to detail and care for guests. Service was efficient and well-paced. The atmosphere is beautiful and refined, though a bit on the loud side.
The waiter explained the daily specials in detail, and the drink selection was excellent. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, many featuring homemade pasta, all prepared with skill and fresh ingredients.
Dishes we enjoyed:
- Polpette di Cinghiale – Wild boar meatballs in a rich mushroom sauce with a hint of truffle oil.
- Polpo alla Brace – Perfectly grilled octopus with balsamic, olive oil, and a touch of oregano.
- Mussels in White Wine Sauce – Fresh, tender mussels in a fragrant white wine broth.
- Spaghettone Nduja – Homemade spaghetti with spicy nduja, burrata foam, and shrimp — bold and flavorful.
- Gnocchi di Ricotta – Soft ricotta gnocchi with Parmigiano and a subtle touch of truffle.
- Paccheri con Coda – Boneless oxtail with vegetable purée, a whisper of cocoa powder, and ricotta salata.
- Pollo alla Parmigiana – Lightly breaded, pounded chicken breast with classic parmigiana sauce.
Desserts:
- Pistachio Crème Brûlée – Smooth, creamy, and perfectly caramelized.
- Tiramisu – Classic, airy, and well-balanced in sweetness.
Overall: A sophisticated yet inviting spot for authentic Italian dining with exceptional service, refined dishes, and an excellent wine list. Perfect for a special night out—just be prepared for a lively noise level.
Rating 8.3/10