TLDR
An enduring Lincoln Center institution, famous for its bustling pre-theater energy, legendary pancakes, and classic Italian comfort food.
Instagram Posts References
Café Fiorello is recognized as one of Shelly Fireman's classic restaurants, strategically located near major cultural landmarks like Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and Broadway. It played a significant role in New York's vibrant pre-show dining scene, helping to keep the city's nights alive with its timeless offerings.
Details
A timeless pre-show staple located across from Lincoln Center, this establishment is celebrated for its classic Italian fare and vibrant atmosphere [1]. While some diners consider its location its primary draw [2], many others praise the consistent quality of its signature dishes [3]. It remains a reliable destination for both casual dining and special post-event celebrations in Midtown [4], [5].
Highlights / Recommended
"The chicken and veal parmesan are highly recommended, as are the pancakes and the chocolate mousse [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •chocolate mousse(2)
- •mousse(2)
- •pancakes(2)
Customer Sentiment
Feedback is generally positive, with guests frequently highlighting the restaurant's excellent hospitality and attentiveness to special occasions [4], [5]. While most enjoy the quality of the meal, opinions are mixed, as some diners characterize the experience as more convenient than culinary-focused [2], [3].
Caveats
The interior can feel somewhat cramped and loud, and those hoping for the famous chocolate mousse to be served tableside may be disappointed as it is no longer prepared that way [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CAFE FIORELLO
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Place To Eat Lunch With Family Near The Lincoln
"The commenter finds their antipasto amazing and notes they have good vegetarian options."
PositiveFrom post: Any Pancake Recommendations On Uws Ues Or Midtown
"The commenter suggests Fiorellos, across from Lincoln Center, as a surprisingly terrific option for pancakes."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"Cafe Fiorello, located across from Lincoln Center, was highly recommended, with mentions of nearby subway access and its ambiance."
PositiveFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user gives a strong recommendation for Cafe Fiorello."
PositiveFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"Contrary to other opinions, this user states that Cafe Fiorello is actually surprisingly good."
PositiveFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user recommends the outdoor seating area at Cafe Fiorello as a better option than the inside."
PositiveFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user found the food and service at Cafe Fiorello great but noted it wasn't fancy or romantic, with cramped and loud seating arrangements."
NeutralFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user loves Cafe Fiorello, highlighting their amazing chicken and veal parm, and also praising their chocolate mousse as some of the best in the city."
PositiveFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user believes Cafe Fiorello's food is mediocre and that its only saving grace is its proximity to Lincoln Center."
NegativeFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Giorellos is mentioned for its excellent hospitality; calling ahead and mentioning a special occasion can ensure good care."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Cafe Fiorello is mentioned as a classic choice for dining after a Lincoln Center event."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Cafe Fiorello is suggested as a go-to choice for post-opera celebrations near Lincoln Center, acknowledging the difficulty of finding fine dining late in Midtown."
PositiveFrom post: Best Lasagna In Nyc
"This user expressed surprise that Cafe Fiorello had not been mentioned yet in the discussion about lasagna."
NeutralFrom post: Help Remembering Restaurant
"The original poster confirmed that Cafe Fiorello was not the restaurant they were looking for."
NegativeFrom post: Help Remembering Restaurant
"The user asked if the restaurant in question was Cafe Fiorello."
NeutralFrom post: Celebration Dinner Near Columbus Circle
"Cafe Fiorello is highly recommended by this user as a favorite place for old-school Italian dining."
PositiveFrom post: Breakfast Near Lincoln Center
"This commenter states that Cafe Fiorello's pancakes are the 'best in the city'."
PositiveFrom post: Breakfast Near Lincoln Center
"Cafe Fiorello is mentioned as a possible breakfast spot near Lincoln Center."
PositiveFrom post: Breakfast Near Lincoln Center
"Cafe Fiorello is recommended, with a specific mention to try the pancakes."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For A Crossgenerational Crowd Pleaser
"Cafe Fiorello is suggested as a dining option."
Neutral