New York City will erupt this Sunday afternoon when soccer fans cheer on their hopeful victors for the EuroCup final.
With Italy competing against England, many Italian restaurants plan on turning their dining rooms, outdoor parquets, and patios into a miniature stadium. Rounds of spritz, beer, wine, and above all pizza, will be devoured by fans eager (and anxious) to celebrate an Azzurri win.
At Ribalta, the self-proclaimed “House of Italian Soccer” in the West Village, soccer broadcasts and Neapolitan pizza are routine. But this year, Owner Rosario Procino will take festivities to the next level by projecting the championship on two screens and making a block party on West 12th street.
Manuel Locatelli of Italy in the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship semi-final match between Italy and Spain at Wembley Stadium on July 06, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
“When Italy plays, we all become one whole nation and cheer together for our national team,” he says. “For Sunday’s final game we are working on the final details to close the street and have as many Italian fans together as possible.”
Ribalta doesn’t take reservations. But fortunately, the options for watching Italy and England in the EuroCup final are not limited. Here are our recommendations for pairing great Italian pizza, pasta, and soccer in one game plan in New York City. Forza Azzurri!
Ciro Iovine of Song'E Napule Pizzeria & Trattoria.
Song’E Napule Pizzeria & Trattoria
146 West Houston Street, Manhattan
When the Argentine footballer Maradona passed away last winter, Neopolitans around the world honored the soccer legend with shrines and mementos. At Song è Napule, Neapolitan Pizzaiolo Ciro Iovine was one of the many who redecorated his restaurant by hanging soccer jerseys and displaying figurines in remembrance. Ciro and his tight team bring energy and excitement to their award-winning pizza-making, often breaking out into song and dance for customers. Get ready for lots of noise, joy, and even tears, if Italy wins. Their passion for pizza and soccer goes that deep.
San Matteo Cucina e Pizzeria
1559 2nd Ave. and 1739 2nd Ave., Manhattan
When the score is 0-0 with halftime approaching, the second-floor balcony of San Matteo’s East 90th street location shakes as fans jump up and down. Not quite Neapolitan, the menu of San Matteo honors Salerno and the best of the Amalfi Coast. Outside and indoor seating are available, and TVs are plentiful so you won't have to miss the action while devouring pizza, pasta, and other specialties.
Neapolitan pizza at Ribalta.
Ribalta
48 East 12th Street, Manhattan
For owners Rosario Procino and Pizzaiolo Pasquale Cozzolino, Neapolitan pizza and soccer are like a holy sacrament. Over the years, Ribalta has become a sort of church for fans of Italy’s many teams. They promise and deliver on pizza made with Neapolitan ingredients, but serve many other dishes, including antipasto, salads and dessert, and of course, Spritz!
Enzo's of Arthur Avenue.
Enzo’s of Arthur Avenue
2339 Arthur Avenue, Bronx
Surrounded by businesses founded by Italians over 100 years ago, Enzo’s of Arthur Avenue is known for continuing the tradition of treating customers like favorite family members. Owner Maria still serves the beloved dishes once cooked by her late husband, including his famous Calabrian fried meatballs and peppers, as well as new hits. Take advantage of Arthur Avenue’s new al fresco dining along the Piazzi di Belmont –– an innovation from the pandemic–– and make sure to reserve a table in advance.
Gnudi at La Rina Pastificio e Vino
La Rina Pastificio e Vino
387 Myrtle Ave., Brooklyn
Top Chef and La Cucina Italiana contributor Silvia Barban is known for her thoughtful, delicious and ever- changing dishes of freshly made pasta. Drawing from her mixed Italian heritage, she adds flavors from the North and South to the menu. For game day, La Rina will open the lush backyard patio and serve dinner from 3 p.m. on. No reservations needed. Get there early and enjoy a cocktail.