TLDR
Retro-future, funky Italian spot with a whimsical menu and unique, creative flair. Perfect for a memorable birthday or group gathering.
Café Mars, a new Gowanus restaurant, offers an 'unusual Italian' experience with unique starters, creative pastas, and distinctive main courses.
Amber Sutherland-Namako reviews Café Mars, a unique Italian restaurant in Gowanus, highlighting its retro-future ambiance, creative cocktails, and standout dishes like baked potato gnocchi and pork rib Parm.
Details
Located in Gowanus, this whimsical and retro-future Italian destination stands out as a unique neighborhood staple [1]. Guests are treated to creative twists on classic fare, from imaginative pasta dishes to decadent smoked pork rib Parm [1]. With a stylish interior and a welcoming back room, it has earned a reputation as a must-visit spot for those seeking a modern departure from traditional Italian dining [1], [6].
Food Overview
The menu offers a creative and whimsical approach to Italian food, featuring notable housemade pastas like the baked potato gnocchi and the Slinky-like 'waves' pasta [1]. Customers specifically enjoy the smoked pork rib Parm and the quirky 'jell-olives,' and the kitchen also provides a set menu option for groups of five or more [1], [8]. While most offerings are hits, the assertively sweet 'Sonic Rickey' cocktail may not suit every palate [1].
Caveats
The 'Sonic Rickey' cocktail is noted for being quite sweet, which may not appeal to all diners [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CAFE MARS
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Any Recommendations For Someone Who Misses
"A whimsical Italian restaurant known for serving jello shots."
PositiveFrom post: Elevated Family Stylechefs Choice But Not A
"The user suggests Cafe Mars for parties of five or more, noting they offer a set menu."
PositiveFrom post: Im Bored Of Italian Food Italian Restaurant For
"Cafe Mars is highly recommended for its genuinely interesting and modern take on Italian cuisine, positioning it as superior to other restaurants from large groups."
PositiveFrom post: Im Bored Of Italian Food Italian Restaurant For
"Cafe Mars is noted for having a very whimsical Italian menu, suggesting it offers a creative and non-traditional Italian experience."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurants Like C As In Charlie
"This user suggests Cafe Mars, describing its atmosphere as pretty funky."
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