Tucked away on a bustling street in Astoria, Pazza Pasta isn’t just another Italian restaurant—it’s a community hub, a culinary journey, and a love letter to authentic Italian dining. From viral TikTok videos showcasing their gooey truffle maccheroni to glowing Yelp reviews from thrilled customers, Pazza Pasta has carved out a niche as one of Queens’ most beloved dining spots. But what makes this small business stand out in New York’s fiercely competitive food scene? We visited, tasted, and spoke to locals to get the full scoop.
In a neighborhood revered for its dynamic culinary diversity, Pazza Pasta located at 36-01 36th Avenue has quickly risen to fame. Known for its blend of rustic Italian recipes and modern culinary twists, this family-owned business is drawing in crowds from beyond Astoria’s borders. On any given night, you’ll find a steady stream of customers lining up outside, eager for a plate of fresh, hand-rolled pasta.
Founded in 2019 by Chef Marco Bellini, a Florence native with a deep-rooted passion for Italian cuisine, Pazza Pasta grew from humble beginnings into one of Astoria’s go-to spots for authentic pasta made daily from scratch. The restaurant’s name, “Pazza,” meaning “crazy” in Italian, is a playful nod to its daring approach to traditional dishes.
Chef Marco honed his skills in Italy and later in Manhattan’s high-end kitchens before bringing his passion to Queens. With classics like cacio e pepe, pumpkin ravioli, and baked gnocchi with burrata—and don’t miss the Instagram-favorite black truffle tagliolini—Pazza Pasta is redefining comfort food in the borough.
Menu Highlights Include:
Every pasta is house-made, every sauce crafted in small batches, and every plate assembled with a mix of tradition and creativity.
Beyond the delectable dishes, Pazza Pasta actively contributes to the local economy and community wellness initiatives. In addition to employing local staff and sourcing ingredients from nearby markets and vendors, the restaurant has become a partner in Astoria’s community-building efforts.
During the height of the COVID-19 crisis, Pazza Pasta partnered with volunteer organizations to deliver meals to healthcare workers and senior citizens. Their commitment to service didn’t go unnoticed; they were recently featured in Queens Local News under the headline “Where Food Meets Compassion in Astoria.”
This spirit of generosity continues today. Pazza Pasta offers discounts to teachers and first responders, collaborates with LaGuardia students on culinary internships, and frequently participates in local food festivals.
A quick glance at any review platform—Google, Yelp, or OpenTable—tells a consistent story: customers love Pazza Pasta. With an average Google rating of 4.8 stars based on over 1,000 reviews, the accolades are hard-earned.
Here’s what diners are saying:
“It felt like I walked into a little trattoria in Tuscany—flavors were bold yet balanced, the pasta perfectly al dente.” – Jenna T., Google Reviews
“The staff treated us like family from the moment we arrived. And the truffle pasta? Heaven in a bowl.” – Kevin M., Yelp
“We came for the pasta, stayed for the warm ambiance. Highly recommend the pistachio pesto—it’s divine.” – Rachel Z., OpenTable
The restaurant prides itself on attentive service and a cozy indoor-outdoor experience. String lights, rustic wood tables, and upbeat Italian music create the perfect atmosphere for date nights, family dinners, or celebrating life’s little wins.
[All images used with permission from Pazza Pasta’s official media kit]
Photo 1: The Famous Truffle Tagliolini
Photo 2: Chef Marco Rolling Fresh Dough
Photo 3: Cozy Outdoor Dining Setup on 36th Ave
Photo 4: Pistachio Pesto Fusilli, Fan Favorite
These visuals not only capture the artistry behind the food but also showcase why so many are flocking to Pazza Pasta for their next indulgent night out.
There’s a reason Pazza Pasta is topping search results for “best Italian food in Astoria” and trending on social media—it delivers an experience that is authentic, heartfelt, and downright delicious.
We encourage Queens locals and New Yorkers alike to:
Whether you’re craving rich Italian classics or looking for a place that represents the vibrant spirit of Queens, Pazza Pasta checks every box. Make a reservation, savor the moment, and join the growing community of patrons who can’t get enough of this local gem.