Giant portions of classic Italian-American fare, perfect for feeding a crowd. A lively, no-frills spot for celebrations & group dining.
Carmine's is a classic family-style Italian restaurant known for its massive portions designed for sharing. Located in the heart of the Theater District, it offers a lively and sometimes boisterous atmosphere that's perfect for groups and celebrations. While some consider it a tourist spot, many find the food to be consistently good and the experience fun and memorable.
Carmine's serves hearty, family-style Italian-American cuisine with an emphasis on large portions meant for sharing. Dishes like pasta, chicken parm, and various meat entrees are frequently recommended. Some reviews suggest it can be a bit heavy or geared towards tourists, but overall, the food is considered satisfying for group dining.
"While specific dishes aren't consistently highlighted across all reviews, pasta dishes, chicken parm, and large sharing platters are commonly mentioned. The 'Frozen Cosmo' is also noted as a recommended drink."
Customers generally praise Carmine's for its generous, family-style portions and lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for groups and celebrations. While some note it can be touristy, the food is often described as consistently good and satisfying.
Important Note
The restaurant is often described as loud and can be perceived as a 'tourist trap' by some. Portions are extremely large and intended for sharing, which might lead to food waste or be overwhelming for smaller groups.
"The user suggested that any Italian restaurant with or without a liquor license would likely serve limoncello spritz."
Neutral"Carmine's is included in a list of potential restaurants for a group celebration."
Positive"Carmine's is praised for its fun vibe, family-style service, and ambiance, making it a great choice for groups."
Positive"Carmines is mentioned as a festive and fun option for larger groups, offering quality family-style service and decent ambiance."
Positive"This user recommended Carmine's for a birthday dinner, specifically mentioning it as a suitable option within the specified price range."
Positive"Carmine's is listed as a recommendation."
Neutral"Carmine's was described as a touristy place with many not-good dishes, but specifically praised for having the best calamari, which is served in a large portion."
Neutral"The user indicated a strong likelihood of choosing Family Meal for their birthday celebration."
Positive"In response to House of Joy being mentioned, the commenter suggested Carmine's as another possibility for large round tables."
Neutral"Family Meal was suggested as a highly suitable option for a vegetarian tasting menu, with a note to keep dietary restrictions consistent within a group."
Positive"The commenter reiterated that Family Meal is a go-to for group vegetarian tasting menus and mentioned it offers a fine dining experience in a casual setting."
Positive"Suggests Carmine's as a possibility for a rehearsal dinner, noting that while the food quality might not be exceptional, the social atmosphere is more important for such an event."
Neutral"This user recommended Carmine's in Lincoln Square."
Positive"This user mentioned Carmine's as a potential catering option, but noted it would likely be over budget."
Negative"Carmine's offers 22 ravioli for $34.95, which the user feels is a poor value, especially if they are Sysco cheese ravioli in marinara, despite being cheaper per piece than other criticized restaurants."
Negative"The user reminisces about Carmine's and expresses a desire to revisit the restaurant."
Positive"Carmine's is suggested for its large portions that are good for sharing."
Neutral"Carmine's is mentioned as a place that serves large, family-style portions, suitable for sharing."
Neutral"Carmine's is listed as the best overall fit for the group's needs."
Positive"A short question asking if Carmine's is a good option."
Positive