TLDR
Massive family-style Italian portions in the heart of the theater district. Perfect for large groups, picky eaters, and festive family celebrations.
Instagram Posts References
Carmine's NYC is listed as a top restaurant for pasta in the city, celebrated for offering Italian dishes that are highly recommended and 'worth the hype'.
Details
Known for massive, family-style portions, this institution is a go-to spot for groups and families visiting New York City [12], [19], [41]. While some diners label it a tourist trap, many praise the festive atmosphere and the consistency of its Italian-American classics [5], [23], [44]. Its convenient location near the theater district makes it a frequent recommendation for post-show meals and large celebratory gatherings [4], [29], [32].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic Italian-American comfort food served in generous family-style portions meant for sharing [11], [25], [43]. Popular items include chicken parm, lasagna, and penne with pink vodka sauce, though some critics suggest the food prioritizes quantity over culinary finesse [41], [46], [52].
Highlights / Recommended
"Signature favorites include the chicken parm, lasagna, and the penne with pink vodka sauce, which are frequently cited for their generous portions [46], [52], [60]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •veal limone(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall feedback is generally positive, with guests appreciating the reliable food and group-friendly service [18], [22], [60]. While some diners criticize it as a tourist-heavy venue with high costs, many find it to be an enjoyable and convenient staple for group dining [5], [10], [48].
Caveats
Large group bookings for 15 or more people may trigger significantly higher event pricing and fixed menu requirements [37], [39]. Additionally, some diners have reported difficulties reaching the restaurant via their automated phone system [42], [45].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CARMINE'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"The user found Carmine's Italian Restaurant to be amazing during a family visit."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"While not considered the best Italian in the city, Carmine's was acknowledged as being very convenient."
NeutralFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"This user commented that the wings at Carmine's are surprisingly good."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"This user recommended Carmine's for its ease of use."
NeutralFrom post: Red Sauce Italian Recommendations For Post
"Carmine's was recommended as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Help Me Find This Pizza I Had It A While Ago And
"Commenter suggests the pizza looks like Carmine's mozzarella slice, but notes basil was added."
NegativeFrom post: Group Of 10 In Midtown Manhattantheater District
"This user recommended John's Pizza of Times Square and Carmines as options conveniently located near the theaters in Times Square."
PositiveFrom post: Group Of 10 In Midtown Manhattantheater District
"A user suggested Carmine's Times Square as a potential restaurant for the group."
PositiveFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"Responding to a comment about large meal sizes, this user noted that such meals are rarely high quality."
NeutralFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user expressed a negative sentiment about Carmine's, suggesting that quality may not be a priority."
NegativeFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user disagreed with a negative sentiment about Carmine's, stating they found the food to be of good quality when visiting with guests."
PositiveFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user reaffirmed that Carmine's is known for its family-sized portions, fitting the original post's request for large meals."
PositiveFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user echoed the recommendation for Carmine's."
PositiveFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user expressed a negative opinion about Carmine's, stating it prioritizes quantity over quality and catering to a specific crowd."
NegativeFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"This user also recommended Carmine's, highlighting its family-sized portions."
PositiveFrom post: Which Place Gives You Insane Sized Meals Doesnt
"The user recommended Carmine's for its large meal sizes, implying it can last for multiple meals."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"Carmine's was listed as one of several restaurant recommendations."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"Carmine's was mentioned as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"Carmine's UWS was mentioned as a specific location for this restaurant."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Nontouristy Cheesecake Factory Of Nyc
"This user suggested Carmine's as an answer to the original poster's question about a Cheesecake Factory equivalent. Multiple users agreed with this suggestion."
Positive