The Trattoria has earned its reputation as one of Long Island’s finest Italian restaurants, serving rustic, soul-satisfying cuisine in an intimate setting since its transformation from La Trattoria. This cozy establishment, tucked behind a hair salon in St. James, combines fresh seasonal ingredients with authentic Italian sensibility to create dishes that keep diners returning week after week. With a relaxed bring-your-own-beverage policy (with corkage fee), carefully curated changing menus, and an open kitchen that showcases Chef Steve’s culinary mastery, The Trattoria delivers an exceptional dining experience worth the effort to secure a reservation.
The Restaurant Menu at The Trattoria
The restaurant menu at The Trattoria features authentic Italian dishes with frequently changing seasonal specials that highlight the freshest available ingredients. The legendary Meatballs Braised in Tomato over Polenta ($14 lunch, $15-$19 dinner) have achieved cult status among regulars, featuring tender beef meatballs slow-cooked in rich tomato sauce served over creamy polenta. The Burrata selections rotate seasonally – recent versions include Burrata with Broccoli, Grilled Ciabatta & Bagna Cauda ($19) and Burrata with Roasted Mushrooms & Arugula ($12-$19).
Appetizers showcase Italian classics with modern touches. Baked Little Neck Clams ($13-$17) arrive perfectly prepared, while Mussels with White Wine, Garlic, Shallots & Grilled Crostini ($19) provide a satisfying start. The Chicken Liver Mousse with Apple Mostarda ($17) impresses with its delicate texture and balanced flavors. Adventurous eaters appreciate the Tripe alla Parmigiana ($19), while the Grilled Octopus with Crispy Polenta and Romesco receives consistent praise. Port Balsamic Glazed Ribs ($13) and Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini, Pine Nuts & Mint ($17) round out the diverse starter selection.
The house-made ricotta, sun-dried tomato tapenade, marinated olives, and house-pickled vegetables (each $4) provide excellent accompaniments for the complimentary bread service that begins every meal. Soups include Spring Vegetable Minestrone ($9), while salads feature Baby Greens with Pecorino Dressing ($9) and Beet Salad with Arugula, Goat Cheese, Pistachio & Citrus Vinaigrette ($13).
Pasta dishes are prepared fresh and served in half ($16) or full portions ($22-$28). The Pappardelle Bolognese showcases rich meat sauce clinging to wide ribbons of pasta, while Bucatini Carbonara delivers creamy perfection with pancetta and egg. Spaghetti all’Amatriciana features spicy tomato sauce with guanciale, and Black Pasta with Calamari & Spicy Tomato provides a dramatic presentation. The Orecchiette with House-Made Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pesto combines earthy and savory flavors beautifully. The Lasagna Bolognese receives rave reviews for its divine layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
Main courses demonstrate culinary expertise with options like Chicken alla Parmigiana ($22), Eggplant alla Parmigiana ($22), and Chicken Milanese ($27) featuring crispy breaded chicken breast. The Beef & Mushroom Ragu over Creamy Polenta ($22) offers hearty comfort, while market fish preparations change based on availability. Past specials have included perfectly cooked halibut and monkfish in tomato sauce. The Rigatoni with Kale Sauce & Stracciatella with Toasted Garlic Breadcrumb ($22) provides a lighter yet satisfying option.
On weekends, The Trattoria operates on a prix fixe system with three-course dinners at $40-$42 and four-course options at $50-$52, offering excellent value for the quality and portion sizes. The weekend prix fixe includes choices from antipasti, primi, secondi, and dolci sections.
Desserts include classics like Lemon Cheesecake with Raspberries, Crème Brûlée, Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake with Vanilla Gelato ($12), Brownie with Warm Chocolate Sauce & Vanilla Gelato ($12), and Affogato ($12). Gelato flavors rotate seasonally and include vanilla, pistachio, and seasonal selections, all served with biscotti.
The Trattoria now serves beer, wine, and spirits with a carefully curated wine list. However, BYOB remains popular with a $15 corkage fee per 750ml bottle of wine or six-pack of beer. No outside liquor or soft drinks are permitted.
Food Delivery Options and Making Reservations
The Trattoria operates primarily as a dine-in restaurant with reservations strongly recommended due to limited seating (approximately 30-32 seats). Call (631) 584-3518 to make reservations, which are accepted starting 30 days in advance. The restaurant does not accept reservations online, via email, or through the contact form – phone calls only.
Due to the restaurant’s exceptional reputation and intimate size, reservations book up quickly, especially for weekend dining. Many regulars call exactly 30 days ahead to secure their preferred dates. Walk-ins are welcome if tables are available, but calling ahead is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. The largest party size accommodated is 8 people, though the restaurant offers buyout options for larger groups.
The dining room features a rustic, cozy atmosphere with simple wooden tables, no tablecloths, an open kitchen, and casual decor that emphasizes comfort over formality. The spectacular interior creates a peaceful, relaxed environment where the focus remains on exceptional food and warm hospitality. Chef Steve and his team often greet tables personally, adding a special touch to the dining experience.
Private parties for up to 32 people can be arranged on-premise, with several package options available. The restaurant also offers off-premise catering for events and special occasions. Contact the restaurant directly to discuss catering needs and options.
Payment is cash only, so plan accordingly when dining at The Trattoria. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with accessible parking, entrance, restrooms, and seating. Gluten-free options are available, with some menu items naturally GF and others that can be accommodated. Gluten-free pasta substitutions are offered for pasta courses.
The restaurant can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies – inform staff when placing your order and the kitchen will do their best to meet your needs. The attentive, friendly staff consistently receives praise for great service and making diners feel at home.
Location, Hours, and Getting to The Trattoria
The Trattoria is located in St. James, Long Island, tucked behind a hair salon making it slightly tricky to find for first-time visitors but worth the search.
Address: 532 N Country Rd, St. James, NY 11780 Phone: (631) 584-3518 Website: thetrattoriarestaurant.com
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner)
- Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner only)
- Sunday: Closed
View The Trattoria on Google Maps
The restaurant serves lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 2:00 PM and dinner Monday through Saturday with extended hours on Friday and Saturday evenings. Sunday is closed, giving the team a well-deserved day off. The Trattoria recently began opening on Mondays, expanding availability for guests.
The location is approximately half a mile from the St. James station on the Long Island Railroad, making it accessible via public transportation. Parking is available on-site, though spaces can fill quickly during peak dining hours.
The restaurant ranks #1 of 33 restaurants in Saint James on TripAdvisor with a 4.8-star rating and maintains a 4.8 Google rating with 713 OpenTable reviews. This exceptional reputation reflects the consistent quality, innovative menu, and warm hospitality that define The Trattoria experience.
Tables are close together in the intimate space, creating a cozy feeling that some diners love while others find slightly cramped. The casual atmosphere welcomes diners dressed comfortably – no need for formal attire. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the culinary team at work, adding entertainment value to the meal.
Whether you’re a Long Island local seeking exceptional Italian cuisine or traveling from Brooklyn or beyond for a special meal, The Trattoria delivers rustic, soul-satisfying dishes crafted from the finest ingredients with authentic Italian sensibility. Just remember to call 30 days ahead for weekend reservations, bring cash, and consider bringing your favorite bottle of wine to complement the exceptional food.
