Hello dear
At Cafe Alaia, nestled in Scarsdale, NY, every dish tells a story of Italian culinary mastery. This charming eatery combines a stylish, intimate atmosphere with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta and expertly crafted dishes. Diners rave about the exquisite tortelloni and light, airy eggplant soufflé, each bite reflecting artistry and passion. The attentive service creates a familial warmth, with every guest welcomed like an old friend. Whether indulging in flavorful seafood or enjoying a romantic dinner under soft lighting, Cafe Alaia is a gem that elevates dining into a memorable experience—perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a night out.
About
Welcome to Cafe Alaia, a distinguished Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of charming Scarsdale, New York. This culinary haven is not just a place to dine; it's an experience that envelops you in warmth, elegance, and authenticity. With its carefully curated menu and inviting ambiance, Cafe Alaia has swiftly established itself as the go-to destination for both locals and visitors in search of exquisite Italian cuisine.
Cafe Alaia effortlessly combines style and comfort in its decor, offering a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere ideal for intimate dinners or lively family gatherings. The restaurant is designed with a contemporary flair while honoring classic Italian traditions, making it an enchanting setting for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic night out or a celebratory gathering with friends.
Cafe Alaia is particularly beloved for its handmade pastas, with standout dishes that evoke a passionate response from patrons. For instance, the tortelloni special, described as delightful and generously portioned, has earned a perfect score from customers, reinforcing the restaurant’s reputation as a top spot for pasta lovers. The calamari, too, garners high praise for its delightful preparation and flavor.
As you settle into your seat, you’ll be welcomed by the charismatic host, Fabio, whose genuine hospitality sets the stage for a remarkable dining experience. Reviewers frequently highlight the attentiveness of the staff, ensuring that every guest feels valued and cherished. This personal touch is a hallmark of Cafe Alaia, elevating the dining experience to new heights.
The ambiance is complemented by an extensive wine list, providing perfect pairings to enhance every dish. The menu is a splendid celebration of Italian culinary artistry, offering a delightful range of fresh seafood, succulent meats, and vibrant vegetarian options. Each meal is prepared with a commitment to quality and creativity, promising flavors that will linger on your palate.
One notable highlight is the eggplant soufflé, praised for its airy texture and rich flavors reminiscent of lasagna, yet lighter in feel. Coupled with expertly cooked grilled octopus and a thoughtfully crafted butternut squash salad, your taste buds are sure to embark on a delightful journey. Whether you’re savoring the lamb, with its insightful use of mint, or admiring the delightful pairing of flavors in each dish, Cafe Alaia promises satisfaction with every visit.
In a short period, Cafe Alaia has transformed into a revered culinary establishment in Scarsdale, celebrated for its impeccable service, inviting atmosphere, and most importantly, its stellar food. Whether you're seeking a cozy dinner for two, a lively family meal, or a night out with friends, Cafe Alaia is ready to welcome you with open arms and a promise of delightful dining. Don’t miss out on this gem—your table is waiting!
“ Still the #1 Pasta place in the village of Scarsdale. I tried their tortelloni (tortellini but bigger) special which was amazing. 10/10 Their calamari is also very good. 8/10. The service is exceptional. They make you feel welcome. The ambiance is elegant. They have free wifi. ”
“ Always have an excellent experience here. The gentleman who I suspect to be the manager always gives my father in law his favorite table near the front when we dine with family and friends. Their service is impeccable and the food is always stellar. Scarsdale has been needing a new 5 star restaurant for a while, and this is it! My favorite new place in 2024. ”
“ Back again. Walked in without reservations on a Tuesday at 6:00pm and was seated immediately. It was very quiet with plenty of empty tables. Came with my daughter and the other helper, Sal E. , my son from California. Gave it the fifth star back because this time I got a space on the street right in front of the entrance. As soon as we were seated they brought the basket of bread with that wonderful tasting red sauce. We also asked for some butter. Our water glasses were filled right away as we also were given menus. We ordered Fried Calamari and Eggplant soufflé without looking at the menus and ask them to put in the appetizer order when the waiter returned, I ordered the spaghetti, Pescatora which I love. My daughter ordered one of the pasta specials. My son ordered Pappardelle Agnellllo. All their pastas are home made making the taste greater in my opinion.It was a little noisy when we were leaving. We had a great meal and the price was right. We'll be back for sure. Sal E. New Rochelle ”
“ Nestled in the charming village of Scarsdale, New York, lies a culinary gem that delights the senses with both its atmosphere and cuisine. From the moment you step through the door, you are greeted by Fabio, the restaurant's gracious and charismatic host, who ensures that each guest feels like family. His warm smile and attention to detail set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant itself is an elegant blend of contemporary and classic design, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance perfect for any occasion. Soft lighting, tasteful décor, and intimate seating invite you to relax and savor the evening. As for the menu, it's a true celebration of fine Italian dining. Every dish is crafted with care, offering a perfect balance of flavors and presentation. From the impeccably fresh seafood to the handmade pastas and succulent meat dishes, each bite is a testament to the chef's dedication to quality and creativity. The wine list, expertly curated, provides the perfect pairing to enhance every course. I went back with my friends and we were pleased to have found a e new great selection of Bourbon and Rye. Most of the restaurants do not offer so much variety. Very well done!! What truly elevates this restaurant beyond the exceptional food and beautiful setting, however, is Fabio's personal touch. His passion for hospitality shines through in every interaction, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Fabio makes you feel as though you've been invited into his home. For a dining experience that seamlessly combines gourmet cuisine, a refined atmosphere, and the warmest of welcomes, this Scarsdale establishment is simply a must-visit. Fabio's presence is the cherry on top of an already extraordinary evening. Good Job Cafe Alaia!! ”
“ A great dinner spot with a romantic and formal ambiance. The food was delicious. The service was great and everyone was so attentive. Tried the eggplant soufflé, the grilled octopus, the butternut squash salad (special), and the lamb. The eggplant soufflé was so soft and airy. Had the flavors of a hearty lasagna but it felt so much lighter. The octopus was perfectly cooked. It was tender and it paired well with the sauces it came with. The squash salad was a warm salad. The taste was somewhat as expected, but still a solid dish. Not sure if it was worth the price of a special. The lamb was fantastic. It was cooked well and the sauce provided a great depth of flavor. I really like the use of the mint in the sauce. It was a wonderful dining experience. I would've given 5 stars but for a bite in the salad that had a really dried piece of basil (?) that I couldn't chew. I thought it was plastic at first. Still, highly recommend! I will likely be back to try some of the other dishes! ”
“ We had the best meal at Cafe Alaia. The food, ambiance and service were terrific. Everything was tasty and fresh. Our server Ignatzio (hope I spelled it correctly) was friendly and accommodating. I wish I lived closer, I would go often. ”
“ What a lovely place! Service was wonderful and food was delicious. The homemade pasta was so well done. I started with a salad of warm beets, melty goat cheese and roasted almonds- it was so yummy. My husband had a pasta with lamb ragu for his appetizer (although that would've been a meal for me!). For entrees I had the spaghetti with seafood and he got more lamb. Everything was cooked well and tasted delicious. We'll be back! ”
“ I love Cafe Alaia! I stopped by for dinner. I was planning on going to another nearby restaurant, but it was a holiday weekend. And, I ended up here. I was pleasantly surprised. Because it was a holiday, the restaurant was very quiet. But, the service and food was amazing! I had salad, bread and pasta. Everything I had was very fresh; I'd definitely come back here again to try more of their options. They have outdoor seating during the summer months. The inside of the restaurant is very cozy and had a relaxed vibe. This is a great spot to try for great Italian food! I'd highly recommend stopping by. ”