Carla

- 331 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019

Welcome to Carla, a vibrant and trendy restaurant located in the heart of New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen. This establishment is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination that offers a unique and welcoming dining experience. With a menu that draws inspiration from Mexican and broader Latin American flavors, Carla presents a contemporary twist on classic comfort food. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a solo bite to eat. The restaurant proudly identifies as a women-owned business, adding to its distinct and community-oriented identity.

Carla's atmosphere is a highlight in itself, described as a perfect blend of casual, cozy, and trendy. The decor is thoughtfully designed with lush foliage and a tropical oasis feel, creating an escapist experience right in the middle of the city. This ambiance makes it a great spot for various crowds, including families, groups, and tourists, as well as being a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. Patrons often praise the friendly and attentive staff, who contribute to the overall positive and helpful vibe. The restaurant’s popularity for pre-theater dining speaks to its efficient service and convenient location, ensuring that guests can enjoy a delicious meal and still make it to their show on time.

While the menu is an eclectic mix of cuisines, the Mexican and Latin American influences are at the forefront, with dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. However, it's worth noting that the culinary approach at Carla is creative and modern, not strictly traditional. As one review noted, this can lead to some surprises, like a tamale-like filling in enchiladas. For those seeking an innovative take on familiar dishes, this is a part of the adventure. The beverage program is a major draw, with a reputation for "great cocktails," a wide beer selection, and a strong wine list. Carla offers a full experience that goes beyond just the food, with a focus on atmosphere, service, and a fantastic bar.

Carla is strategically located at 331 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA. This address places it squarely in Hell’s Kitchen, a lively and bustling neighborhood in Midtown West, known for its diverse culinary scene and its close proximity to the Broadway Theater District. The location is perfect for pre- and post-theater dining, as it is just a short walk from many of Broadway's most famous venues. Its central position also makes it highly accessible for locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant offers a variety of accessibility features to ensure that all guests can have a comfortable dining experience. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. This commitment to inclusivity is a testament to its welcoming atmosphere. For those traveling by car, there is paid street parking available in the area, though public transportation is often the most convenient option in this part of Manhattan. The restaurant is easily reachable via multiple subway lines, including the C, E, 1, and A trains, making it a simple journey from most parts of the city.

Carla provides a comprehensive suite of services to accommodate a wide variety of dining preferences, from those who want to sit down and relax to those who need a quick meal on the go.

Services offered include:

• Dine-in & Outdoor Seating: Guests can enjoy their meal inside the cozy, trendy interior or take advantage of the outdoor seating option for an al fresco experience.

• Reservations: Carla accepts reservations, and they are recommended for dinner, particularly on busy nights or before a show, to ensure a table.

• Delivery & Takeout: For those who prefer to eat at home, the restaurant offers convenient takeout and delivery, including a no-contact delivery option.

• Happy Hour: Carla features both happy hour drinks and food, making it an excellent destination for a pre-dinner or after-work gathering.

• Catering & Large Parties: The restaurant can accommodate large party bookings and full restaurant buyouts for special events, with unique event options available.

• Table & Counter Service: The staff provides attentive table service, but the option for counter service may also be available for specific orders or quick bites.

Carla distinguishes itself with a number of key features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and unique identity in the New York dining scene.

Key features and highlights include:

• Great Cocktails: The beverage program is a major highlight, with a reputation for "great cocktails." Patrons rave about the variety and quality of the drinks, from classics to creative house concoctions.

• Fast Service: Known for its efficient and super helpful staff, Carla ensures a fast dining experience, a crucial factor for a pre-theater crowd on a schedule.

• Diverse & Inclusive Atmosphere: The restaurant is family-friendly, group-friendly, and a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, creating a comfortable and diverse environment for all guests.

• Healthy & Vegan Options: The menu includes a variety of healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. One reviewer specifically mentioned the delicious "roasted cauliflower salad" and "veggie tacos."

• Cozy & Trendy Vibe: The ambiance is described as both cozy and trendy, striking a perfect balance for a relaxed evening that still feels special. The decor with its tropical and lush feel adds to the escapist quality.

• Late-Night Food: Carla offers late-night food, making it a great option for a post-show snack or a meal after a late-night outing.

For reservations, orders, or inquiries, you can contact Carla using the information provided below.

Address: 331 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA

Phone: (929) 404-4082

In a neighborhood filled with countless restaurants, Carla is worth choosing for its ability to deliver a unique and holistic dining experience that goes beyond just the food. The primary reason is the combination of its trendy, welcoming atmosphere and its exceptional cocktail program. While a review from a customer looking for strictly traditional Mexican food highlights a potential disconnect for some, it also underscores what makes Carla special—its creative and "cosmopolitan" take on food. For those who are open to new flavors and unexpected culinary twists, this is a significant draw. The fact that the staff is described as "friendly and helpful" is a powerful reason to visit, as good service can make or break an experience, especially in a bustling city.

Furthermore, the restaurant's versatility is a huge selling point. It’s perfect for a wide range of occasions, from a romantic dinner to a group outing, and it’s well-equipped to handle the specific needs of a pre-theater crowd with its fast service. The happy hour offerings, including both food and drinks, provide an excellent value proposition and a great reason to stop by before a show or after work. The commitment to providing vegan, vegetarian, and healthy options also makes it a strong contender for a diverse group of diners.

Ultimately, Carla is a place to choose for its vibrant energy, its commitment to being an inclusive space, and its focus on a great overall experience. It's a spot where you can enjoy a delicious meal with a great drink, feel comfortable and welcomed, and have a genuinely good time. For a night out that feels both special and relaxed, Carla is an excellent choice in the heart of New York City.

Carla

331 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019, USA