Filming Location Spotlight | Il Cortile
/Broadway Stages takes pride in supporting our vibrant local communities. Our Filming Location Spotlight series highlights local shops, restaurants, landmarks, and venues where productions that call Broadway Stages home have filmed "on location." We encourage our readers to explore and support these unique spots and join the film and television industry in helping sustain our neighborhoods' economies and culture! In this edition, we enjoy the culinary delights of Northern Italy by way of Il Cortile in Little Italy.
Blending mystery, humor, and the city's energy, the hit CBS show “Elsbeth” is a must-watch for fans of sharp storytelling and offbeat detectives. It brings a fresh twist to the crime procedural, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Carrie Preston stars as Elsbeth Tascioni, an eccentric yet brilliant investigator who sees what others miss. With her unconventional methods and sharp legal mind, she navigates the city's streets, solving baffling cases in her own quirky way. From gritty back alleys and towering law offices to Il Cortile, a family-owned neighborhood staple in Little Italy, NYC becomes more than just a setting — it's a character in itself.
Il Cortile: A Must-Visit Italian Restaurant in NYC's Little Italy
Il Cortile, a standout among New York City's Italian restaurants, is a family-owned gem in historic Little Italy. Since 1975, it has been serving authentic Italian cuisine, offering a welcoming ambiance, classic Italian flavors, and top-tier service to combine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Authentic Italian Cuisine with a Gourmet Touch
At Il Cortile, every plate tells a story of Italian culinary tradition, prepared with fresh produce, house-made pasta, and expertly sourced meats and seafood. Start your meal with the Antipasto Freddo Speciale, a flavorful combination of burrata mozzarella, prosciutto, soppressata, Grana Padano, olives, roasted peppers, and caponata. This dish is perfect for sharing and sets the stage for an authentic Italian feast. The Gamberi Fritti Cortile — lightly fried marinated shrimp seasoned with lemon and vinegar — is a crowd favorite for those who enjoy seafood.
Pasta lovers will appreciate the Fettuccine di Parma, a rich and satisfying dish featuring fettuccine tossed with sweet sausage, wild mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, Parmigiano cheese, garlic, shallots, and a touch of cream. Another standout is the Linguine alle Vongole, featuring tender clams in a delicate white wine and garlic sauce. If you're looking for something heartier, try the Vitello alla Parmigiana, a breaded veal cutlet topped with Il Cortile's signature marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella.
The Margherita Pie is a must-try for a classic Italian pizza experience, topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, homemade mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Those craving a true taste of Italy should not miss the Ossobuco alla Milanese, a slow-braised veal shank served with saffron risotto. The menu at Il Cortile is designed to cater to a range of tastes, ensuring that every guest leaves satisfied.
An Atmosphere That Feels Like Italy in NYC
More than just great food, Il Cortile delivers an ambiance that transports you straight to Italy. The restaurant's glass-enclosed atrium, often called the "garden room," provides a bright, airy dining space filled with lush greenery, exposed brick, and soft lighting. No matter the occasion — a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a special celebration — Il Cortile's charming setting makes every meal feel extraordinary.
The dining areas blend elegance with warmth, featuring classic Italian decor that evokes old-world charm. As one Yelp reviewer put it, "The ambiance is spectacular. From the moment you walk in, you feel like you've stepped into a little piece of Italy. The garden room is beautiful, and it makes the whole dining experience even more special."
Whether you prefer an intimate table or a lively group setting, Il Cortile offers the perfect backdrop for any dining occasion. The restaurant's layout also includes private dining spaces for events, making it a sought-after location for weddings, anniversaries, and corporate gatherings.
Impeccable Service That Elevates the Experience
Another hallmark of Il Cortile is exceptional service. The staff ensures your experience is seamless and enjoyable from the moment you arrive. Do you have dietary restrictions, special requests, or just need help selecting the perfect wine pairing? The waitstaff is knowledgeable about the menu, offering insightful recommendations based on your preferences. The team at Il Cortile goes above and beyond to make your visit memorable.
A Google reviewer praised the restaurant, saying, "The service was fantastic — attentive without being overbearing. The staff made excellent recommendations, and we never felt rushed. It's the kind of place where you feel truly welcomed."
Plan Your Visit to Il Cortile
Il Cortile is located at 125 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, right in the heart of Little Italy. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner, offering the perfect setting for any occasion. Due to its popularity, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
For the latest updates, specials, and behind-the-scenes looks at their incredible dishes, follow Il Cortile on Instagram and Facebook. Their social media pages showcase mouthwatering photos of their cuisine, giving you even more reasons to plan your visit.
Broadway Stages and the Film and TV Industry: Supporting NYC's Local Businesses
Institutions like Il Cortile are part of New York's magic, adding authentic character to the city's cultural landscape and making them ideal filming locations. By partnering with independent restaurants, bars, shops, and other businesses across the city, the film and TV industry is able to enhance the authenticity of its productions and also contribute to the success of these businesses that make New York special. Whether it's a pivotal scene in a television show or a quiet moment in a feature film, these locations offer a unique sense of the city we love.
At Broadway Stages, we are committed to supporting the small businesses that make New York City's neighborhoods thrive. Il Cortile is one such business — a beloved spot and an essential part of the Little Italy community. By dining at Il Cortile, you're not just enjoying an extraordinary meal, you're contributing to the success of a family-owned establishment that has been a part of NYC's cultural fabric for nearly 50 years. Make a reservation, follow them on social media, and get ready to enjoy one of New York City's best Italian dining experiences. And when you go, be sure to tell them Broadway Stages sent you!
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