TLDR
An upscale Italian seafood destination on Central Park South, celebrated for its signature handmade pasta and sophisticated atmosphere.
Reddit Sentiment for MAREA RESTAURANT(based on 113 Reddit opinions)
Details
Sophisticated, upscale Italian seafood dining along Central Park South, known for its stylish interior and prime people-watching opportunities [1]. The menu features expertly crafted pasta dishes and a selection of raw fish and crudi that have long been hallmarks of the experience [2]. While it remains a popular choice for special occasions, recent feedback highlights concerns regarding its value and a potential decline in overall service and culinary quality compared to its past reputation [3].
Food Overview
The cuisine centers on high-end Italian seafood, with specific praise for raw bar items like crudi and unique pasta dishes [2]. The signature octopus and bone marrow fusilli is frequently highlighted as a standout, though some diners have criticized the menu for being overly salty or failing to justify its high price point [3], [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"The octopus and bone marrow fusilli is widely considered the restaurant's signature dish [4]. Other popular recommendations include the crudi selection, gnocco fritto with lardo and uni, and the crab pasta with uni [1], [2], [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •octopus bone marrow pasta(2)
- •red wine braised octopus pasta with bone marrow(2)
- •fusilli(2)
- •octopus(2)
- •octopus and bone marrow fusilli(2)
Customer Sentiment
While many patrons view it as a premier destination for celebrations and romantic occasions, others express significant disappointment regarding its high pricing, excessive saltiness, and service quality, noting that it no longer reaches its former levels of excellence [3].
Caveats
Patrons should be prepared for very high price points, with cocktail prices recently reported at $32 [3]. Additionally, recent guest experiences have been inconsistent, with some citing a drop in service standards and food quality since the departure of former key staff [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MAREA RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Whats Your Favorite Shrimp Dish That Youve Had In
"The user recommends the gnocchetti with shrimp."
PositiveFrom post: Fancy Lunch Spots In Midtown For Summer Associate
"Recommended despite being Italian, specifically for a pasta dish."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Seafood Pasta Youve Had In
"In response to a mention of Marea's crab pasta, this user stated that Marea's crab pasta with uni is one of two standout dishes they recall."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Seafood Pasta Youve Had In
"The user simply mentioned 'GNOCCHETTI from Marea' as a notable dish."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Seafood Pasta Youve Had In
"The user simply mentioned 'Marea' as a relevant restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Seafood Pasta Youve Had In
"The author praised the octopus fusilli with bone marrow at Marea, calling it amazing, though they haven't had it in a few years."
PositiveFrom post: Top Trendyhigh Vibe Restaurant Around
"Marea was recommended as a restaurant choice for the client dinner."
NeutralFrom post: Seeking Rec For Pretheater Dinner Near Lincoln
"This user suggests Marea as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Cesar Uni Brioche Toast Or Similarly Indulgent
"Marea's Uni crudo, described as uni on toast covered with a melted layer of lardo, is suggested as a potential option."
PositiveFrom post: Making An Impression Introducing Friends To Fine
"Marea is recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For An Elopement Dinner In
"Marea was recommended as a dining option."
PositiveFrom post: Im Bored Of Italian Food Italian Restaurant For
"Seconding Marea, and also recommending Santi, noting Santi is run by the former head chef of Marea and is also a great seafood-centric Italian option."
PositiveFrom post: Im Bored Of Italian Food Italian Restaurant For
"Marea on Central Park South is suggested as a seafood-centric Italian option that could serve as a good compromise."
PositiveFrom post: Dinner Spots For Taking Out Visiting Parents In
"Marea is recommended as a dining option."
PositiveFrom post: Best Italian Pasta Spot In Manhattan For Euro
"Marea is listed as a highly recommended Italian restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Best Italian Pasta Spot In Manhattan For Euro
"Marea is suggested as a potential Italian restaurant choice."
PositiveFrom post: Best Italian Pasta Spot In Manhattan For Euro
"Marea is listed among several other Italian restaurant recommendations."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Marea is suggested as a walkable option with delicious food, suitable if other options have been tried before."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Marea has a 9:45 PM seating and can potentially accommodate a 10 PM arrival. It is considered a walkable option with delicious food."
PositiveFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Marea is mentioned as an option that is open a bit later on Fridays and Saturdays."
Positive