TLDR
Famous for massive family-style Italian portions that are perfect for groups and theater-goers in the heart of Midtown.
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
Renowned for its expansive family-style portions and festive, bustling atmosphere, this midtown destination is a quintessential spot for large group gatherings [1], [2]. While some critics dismiss it as a tourist trap, many diners appreciate the consistent, hearty Italian-American classics that make it a reliable choice for families and celebratory meals [3], [4]. Its strategic location near the theater district makes it a frequent recommendation for those looking to accommodate large parties after a Broadway show [5], [6].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic, solid Italian-American fare served in generous, family-style portions intended for sharing [1], [2]. While pasta dishes and hearty favorites like chicken parm and calamari are highly praised for their flavor and scale [3], [4], some diners caution that certain dishes may not represent the best value compared to other city options [5].
Highlights / Recommended
"Diners frequently recommend sharing the chicken parm, calamari, and various pasta dishes which are noted for being flavorful and abundant [1], [2]. The ragu and lasagna are also highlighted as excellent, hearty options for those with large appetites [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •veal limone(2)
Customer Sentiment
Patrons generally praise the festive energy and the restaurant's ability to seamlessly accommodate large groups and families [1], [2]. While some note it can be loud and tourist-focused, the consistent, hearty food and welcoming atmosphere for children frequently receive positive feedback [3], [4].
Caveats
Some visitors may find the atmosphere loud and tourist-oriented, and large groups over 15 people may trigger significant cost increases or event pricing requirements [1], [2]. Additionally, phone accessibility has been reported as challenging for some attempting to reach the restaurant [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CARMINE'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"Highly recommended for large groups with kids because it is family-style and has no minimum."
PositiveFrom post: Upscale Solo Birthday Dining Experiences For
"Recommended for a bar seat for dinner."
PositiveFrom post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"User confirms this restaurant as one that does not require a minimum or prix fixe."
PositiveFrom post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"Suggested as a restaurant option for a group."
PositiveFrom 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."
Positive