03/24/2026
For this Tasty Tuesday we are at Bar Rocco by Chef Rocco DiSpirito, located on 48th Street between 5th and 6th in Midtown Manhattan right across from Rockefeller Center. If you’re looking for restaurants near Rockefeller Center that aren’t tourist traps, this is definitely one to check out.
We started with a few appetizers. The Oysters "Rocco-Feller" were fresh and topped with crispy pork cheek which added a smoky crunch and a lot of flavor. The Arancini Nero had squid ink risotto and shrimp inside, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. And the Yellowtail Carpaccio was light, clean, and really refreshing.
For the mains we tried Rocco’s Big Italian Burger made with a Wagyu beef blend which was really juicy and flavorful, and the fries were perfectly cooked. We also had the Brodetto di Mare, a seafood stew with a saffron broth that was excellent and perfect for dipping bread.
For dessert they brought out a biscotti gelato which was fantastic. And if you go, definitely try the martinis. Some of the best I’ve had in Midtown. The Smoky Old Fashioned was also great.
Can't wait to go back and try everything else on the menu.
The atmosphere here is cozy, comfortable, and a nice escape from the crowds around Rockefeller Center. Good spot for date night, business dinner, or if you just want a really good meal in Midtown Manhattan.
If you’re in Midtown Manhattan near Rockefeller Center, definitely check out Bar Rocco. And as always, support local.