Bocca Osteria: Chicken Riggies, Pizza & Italian Food in Cooperstown

From Silas's Perch | Local Eats & Drinks

We went to dinner at Bocca Osteria, and it was one of those places that felt right from the moment we walked in. The space is elegant without feeling formal, the food has plenty of personality, and even the salt and pepper shakers gave us something to talk about.

Chicken riggies were one of the first things that caught our attention. Samantha grew up in Rome, New York, so this is a dish she knows well and has strong opinions about. Bocca's version felt familiar in the best way, the sort of comforting Central New York food we were hoping for.

We also ordered the Funghi Formaggi pizza, with mushrooms, smoked gouda, parmigiano, and garlic. It was rich and deeply savory, but didn't feel overly heavy. The veggie pizza was fantastic, too. We enjoyed how much flavor the restaurant brought to both.

One of our favorite little surprises was the salt and pepper shakers. Each table had a different set, and ours looked like pasta. We kept spotting different ones around the dining room.

Inside, Bocca feels polished but relaxed. There are also outdoor fire pits that looked especially inviting for a cool evening.

We were glad to see gluten-free pizza crust and pasta options offered, along with vegetarian-friendly choices. Menus and preparation practices can change, so anyone with a food allergy or a need to avoid cross-contact should confirm directly with the restaurant before ordering.

We put together a quick video with scenes from Bocca and some of the dishes we tried. Watch our Bocca Osteria Short on YouTube.

If you're looking for Italian food while visiting Cooperstown, Bocca Osteria is worth considering. You can browse the current menu and confirm details at Bocca Osteria's website.

When you're planning the rest of your trip, visit our Cooperstown travel posts for more local ideas. And if you're looking for a place to stay, Cooperstown Bed & Breakfast is just a short walk from downtown.