Café Carmellini

“Having long considered Locanda Verde one of my favorite restaurants in Manhattan, I was excited to visit the chef’s own namesake restaurant. From the moment you step inside, the space impresses with its sophisticated, upscale design and polished yet welcoming service. The menu is refreshingly concise—offering just enough choices to feel thoughtful without creating decision fatigue. Every dish we tried was outstanding. The flavors were refined, balanced, and memorable, showcasing both confidence and restraint in the kitchen. Another plus is the portion size: both appetizers and entrées are substantial enough to satisfy, yet light enough to leave room for more. And that brings me to the desserts. No matter how full you think you are, order one. They are the perfect finale to an exceptional dining experience. A restaurant that delivers on every front—atmosphere, service, and, most importantly, remarkable food. Worth the visit.”

“Nearly two and half years after its debut, Chef Andrew Carmellini's team continues to deliver one of the best dining experiences in NYC! You walk into the space and are immediately awed by one of the most beautiful dining rooms anywhere. The soaring ceilings, the plush plants and flowers, the spacious tables and the perfect sound level are inviting and calming. The staff could not be more kind and attentive. Every dish was executed perfectly and presented beautifully. It is the perfect lunch restaurant if you are looking to create a memorable dining experience. Or just treat yourself to a wonderful meal.”

“I’m so glad I chose this restaurant to celebrate my 29th birthday. Even though it was a rainy day, it didn’t affect the experience at all — everything turned out to be truly wonderful. Every member of the staff was incredibly welcoming and friendly, showing a high level of professionalism and genuine politeness throughout the evening. The food was above average — from the main courses to the desserts, everything was well-prepared and enjoyable. What made the night even more special was the surprise at the end: the waiter brought out a birthday cake with candles, along with a lovely music box playing the birthday song. It was such a thoughtful and touching gesture. Overall, it was a romantic and very satisfying experience. I would definitely recommend this place for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion — it won’t disappoint.”

“If you are looking for a venue that screams "New York Glamour," Café Carmellini in the Fifth Avenue Hotel is a top-tier contender. It is a stunning, high-energy space that feels like a modern tribute to the Gilded Age, complete with sculptural trees and sapphire-blue velvet booths. The "good looking" factor here is undeniable. From the moment you walk into the neoclassical dining room, the scale and design are breathtaking. The service is equally polished; the staff operates with a level of professionalism that makes you feel genuinely cared for without being overbearing. It’s the kind of place where your water glass is never empty, and the timing of the courses is handled with precision. The menu is sophisticated. Everything we tried was technically flawless and high-quality. While the food is undeniably "great," it leans toward the classical and safe. If you’re a frequent diner at NYC’s smaller, experimental "hidden gems," you might find it lacks that elusive "wow factor" or creative edge that smaller kitchens often provide. It’s delicious, but perhaps more "perfectly executed" than "groundbreaking. The Budget ? Be prepared ! This is a high-end experience, and the bill reflects it ! I strongly recommend Café Carmellini for a one-time event—an anniversary, a milestone birthday, or a business dinner where you need to impress. It’s a beautiful spectacle and a solid meal, even if it doesn't quite reach the soulful heights of the city’s smaller cult favorites.”

“Upon arrival at Café Carmellini, we were warmly greeted by an older gentleman — possibly the restaurant manager — who welcomed us with genuine courtesy and grace. He personally guided us to the host stand for check-in, setting a gracious and polished tone at the outset. His demeanor was professional and calming, creating a strong first impression that reflected well on the establishment. The meal itself showcased excellent culinary craftsmanship. The Squab en Croûte was exceptional — tender, flavorful, and encased in a perfectly crisp pastry shell. The Quail & Figs was equally well-executed, with the natural sweetness of the figs enhancing the delicately seasoned quail. Both dishes were standouts, and it’s clear the kitchen is operating with technical precision and refined taste. Unfortunately, the table service did not live up to that same level. Despite requesting napkins early in the meal, they were only provided after several courses — and only after a second reminder. The payment process via Apple Pay was also surprisingly inconvenient, requiring two trips up and down the stairs before it was completed. These lapses detracted from an otherwise elevated dining experience. In short: exceptional food, a gracious welcome, but service at the table needs more consistency and professionalism to match the overall standard.”