Carmine's - Time Square

- 200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

Welcome to Carmine's - Time Square, an iconic New York institution that has been serving up classic, family-style Italian food for decades. Tucked away just steps from the vibrant heart of Times Square, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience. Known for its massive, shareable portions and lively, bustling atmosphere, Carmine's embodies the spirit of a big, boisterous Italian-American family dinner. Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or visiting for the first time, this is a destination that captures the city's unique energy while offering a warm, inviting space to share a memorable meal with friends and family. The philosophy here is simple: good food, great company, and enough on the plate to ensure no one leaves hungry. It’s a place where every table feels like a celebration, and the spirit of 'la famiglia' is woven into every detail. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in a cozy, historic ambiance that feels both grand and surprisingly intimate. The sheer scale of the place, combined with its popularity, means there's always a buzz in the air, a constant hum of conversation, clinking glasses, and the joyful noise of people enjoying themselves.

The restaurant’s reputation for generously portioned dishes means it's a perfect choice for group gatherings, whether it's a family reunion, a night out with friends, or a pre-theater dinner. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience that gets everyone talking and laughing. You'll find all the classic Italian-American favorites, from heaping platters of pasta to succulent meat and fish dishes. The focus is on traditional recipes executed with care, delivering the kind of comforting, familiar flavors that make you feel right at home. It’s this combination of hearty, satisfying food and a truly unique atmosphere that has made Carmine's a beloved staple for locals and a must-visit for tourists. The restaurant's service is often praised for being friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive dining experience. Despite the constant rush, the staff manages to maintain a fun and engaging rapport with guests, making each visit feel special. The vibrant energy and the sense of history that permeates the building make it a truly one-of-a-kind spot in the city.

Carmine's is conveniently located at 200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA. Its prime location in the Theater District makes it an ideal spot for a pre or post-show dinner. Being in the heart of Times Square, the restaurant is easily accessible via numerous subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, 7, and A, C, E trains, all of which have stations within a short walking distance. For those driving, paid parking garages and paid street parking are available nearby, though finding a spot can be challenging in this busy area. The restaurant prides itself on being highly accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. The bustling streetscape of Times Square adds to the excitement of arriving at Carmine’s, with the bright lights and crowds creating a true New York City feel. This central location also means it's a great starting point for a night out, with countless bars, theaters, and attractions just around the corner.

The restaurant's accessibility features are a key part of its commitment to hospitality. The spacious layout and thoughtful design elements make it easy for guests with mobility challenges to navigate the space. This inclusive approach extends to the entire atmosphere, which is welcoming to a diverse crowd including families, groups, locals, tourists, and is a designated LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space. The atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, with a historic feel that transports you to another era. It’s the kind of place where you can feel comfortable whether you're dressed up for a special occasion or just stopping by for a casual lunch. The mix of customers, from Broadway actors to out-of-town visitors, adds to the unique melting pot that is Carmine's. The location truly puts you in the center of it all, making the journey to and from the restaurant part of the overall New York adventure.

Services Offered:

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full, sit-down meal in the restaurant's lively and historic setting. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for lunch and dinner, as the restaurant often has a wait.
• No-contact Delivery: Order your favorite dishes for delivery to your home or office.
• Curbside Pickup: Place an order for takeout and pick it up from the curb for a convenient and quick experience.
• Takeout: All menu items are available for takeout.
• Catering: Carmine's offers catering services, perfect for feeding large groups at your next event.
• Outdoor Seating: The restaurant features outdoor seating, a great option for enjoying a meal when the weather is nice.
• Private Dining Room: Host a private event or special occasion in one of their dedicated private dining spaces.
• Table Service: Enjoy full table service from the friendly and professional staff.

Features and Highlights:

• Fast Service: Despite the high volume of customers, Carmine's is known for its efficient and fast service.
• Great Beer Selection: The restaurant boasts a wide variety of beers to complement your meal.
• Great Cocktails: Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails from the bar onsite.
• Great Coffee: Start or end your meal with a quality cup of coffee.
• Great Dessert: Indulge in a fantastic selection of desserts to complete your dining experience.
• Great Wine List: A well-curated wine list is available with many options to pair with the food.
• Serves Local Specialty: The menu features local New York favorites and specialties.
• Onsite Bar: A full bar is available for guests to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including hard liquor and happy hour drinks.
• Casual and Historic Atmosphere: The ambiance is a unique blend of casual comfort and historic charm, making it a great place for all occasions.
• Family-Friendly: The restaurant is good for kids, offering high chairs and a special kids' menu.
• LGBTQ+ Friendly and Transgender Safespace: Carmine's is a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Contact Information:

Address: 200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

Phone: (212) 221-3800

Why It's Worth Choosing Carmine's:

Choosing Carmine's - Time Square means opting for a classic New York dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. The restaurant’s main appeal lies in its famous family-style portions, which are a game-changer for group dining. As one customer review notes, "Portions are huge, definitely for sharing (don’t order one per person you won’t regret it but you’ll have a lot of leftovers)." This approach not only provides exceptional value for the price but also fosters a fun, communal dining atmosphere where plates are passed around and everyone gets to try a bit of everything. It’s a great way to share and connect over a meal. The food is described as being "pretty good and prices are fair for the size," making it a reliable choice for a filling and enjoyable Italian-American dinner.

Beyond the food, the service and atmosphere are often what elevate the experience. Reviews highlight the staff's professionalism and friendly nature, with one visitor noting, "Our server was very friendly and fun, so that was nice! Based on food alone, I’d give 3 stars, but the service bumps it up to 4." This dedication to hospitality ensures that even when the restaurant is "super busy," as it almost always is, the customer experience remains positive. The bustling, "very New York-like" environment is a draw in itself, adding a vibrant energy that makes the meal feel like an event. It's a place that buzzes with the excitement of the city, perfect for both tourists looking for an authentic taste of NYC and locals who appreciate the consistent quality and lively scene. With its blend of generous portions, fair pricing, great service, and a truly unique atmosphere, Carmine's stands out as a top choice for anyone looking for a hearty, classic Italian meal in the heart of Manhattan. The ability to cater to such a wide range of dining needs—from private parties to casual weeknight dinners—solidifies its reputation as a versatile and beloved establishment. The historic setting and friendly staff make it a place you’d want to come back to, as another reviewer mentioned, “I’d still come back if I’m ever in NYC, but I’d want to try another dish.” This is the kind of restaurant that creates lasting memories, a true testament to its enduring appeal.

Carmine's - Time Square

200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA