Cellini Introduce
For those in search of an authentic and classic Italian dining experience, Cellini Italian Restaurant stands as a true staple in the heart of Midtown East, New York. This charming establishment, located at 65 E 54th St, has been serving Manhattan patrons for nearly 30 years, building a reputation for its timeless approach to Italian cuisine. Cellini is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination that transports you to a world of culinary tradition and warm hospitality. The restaurant is family-owned, and this sense of warmth and familiarity is evident in every detail, from the welcoming staff—many of whom have been with the restaurant since its inception—to the consistently high quality of the food. It's the kind of place where you're likely to see familiar faces, a testament to its loyal following and ability to create a genuine connection with its guests.
The atmosphere at Cellini is distinctly upscale yet incredibly cozy and romantic, making it a perfect spot for a special date night or an intimate dinner with friends. The multi-floor layout adds to its unique charm, offering various dining experiences within the same space. You can enjoy a lively dinner on one of the main floors or book the wine cellar downstairs for a private party. This versatility makes Cellini an ideal choice for different occasions, whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying a quiet meal alone. The attention to detail in the decor and overall ambiance contributes to a sophisticated yet comfortable setting. Known for being a great spot for both solo dining and groups, the restaurant manages to feel both exclusive and inclusive at the same time. Its reputation is built on a foundation of quality, tradition, and a deep commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience.
Cellini Italian Restaurant is situated in a prime location at 65 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022. Its central position in Midtown East makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Given its proximity to major business districts and tourist attractions, it's a convenient stop for a business lunch or a pre-theater dinner. Getting to the restaurant is straightforward, with numerous public transportation options nearby. While there are paid street parking options available, as is common in this part of Manhattan, many patrons find it easier to arrive via taxi or a rideshare service due to the busy nature of the area. For those with mobility needs, Cellini ensures a welcoming experience with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating. This commitment to accessibility means everyone can enjoy the authentic Italian cuisine and elegant ambiance that Cellini offers.
The services at Cellini are designed to cater to a refined and comfortable dining experience.
- Dine-in and Takeout: Patrons have the choice to either enjoy their meal within the elegant setting of the restaurant or opt for a convenient takeout option.
- Reservations: Given its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for lunch and dinner, to ensure a seamless dining experience. The restaurant readily accepts reservations, making planning your visit easy.
- Dining Options: Cellini serves both lunch and dinner, with a full table service and a range of seating options. Dessert is also a highlight, with a dedicated menu of classic Italian sweets.
- Group Accommodations: The restaurant is well-suited for groups, offering an ideal setting for gatherings and special occasions. The private wine cellar downstairs is particularly popular for private parties.
- Payment Methods: For convenience, the restaurant accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- Amenities: Cellini provides a bar on-site, a restroom, and Wi-Fi for its guests, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience. High chairs are also available for families dining with children.
These services, combined with the restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere, contribute to its reputation as a premier Italian dining destination.
Cellini Italian Restaurant has several distinguishing features that set it apart in a city filled with dining options.
- Great Coffee and Dessert: The restaurant is highly praised for its excellent coffee and dessert menu, which includes classics like Tiramisu, Ricotta Cheesecake, and Creme Brulee.
- Authentic Cuisine: The menu is a showcase of traditional Italian dishes, with everything made fresh in-house. Popular items include the homemade Gnocchi and a variety of pasta dishes like Linguine Frutti di Maree and Rigatoni Bolognese. The seafood and meat selections are also extensive, featuring dishes such as Filet Mignon and Vitello Milanese.
- Extensive Wine Selection: Cellini boasts a remarkable wine list, offering a wide array of choices to perfectly complement any meal. Wines are available by the glass and the bottle, and the staff is knowledgeable in helping patrons find the right pairing.
- Romantic and Upscale Atmosphere: The ambiance is often described as cozy, romantic, and upscale, making it a favorite for special occasions and a refined dining experience. The multi-level layout, including a private wine cellar, enhances its charm and versatility.
- Long-Standing Tradition: The fact that it is a family-owned establishment that has been in business for nearly 30 years speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and consistency. Many staff members are long-time employees, which contributes to the restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Menu Variety: The menu caters to a wide range of tastes, from traditional appetizers like Carpaccio di Manzo to a variety of pasta, risotto, and main courses, including both fish and meat options.
These highlights collectively create a dining experience that is both authentic and memorable.
For reservations or inquiries, you can reach Cellini Italian Restaurant at the following contact information.
Address: 65 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022, USA
Phone: (212) 751-1555
What makes Cellini Italian Restaurant a truly worthwhile choice is its unwavering commitment to tradition and quality. The menu is not just a list of dishes; it's a testament to authentic Italian culinary craftsmanship. The pasta is made fresh in-house, a detail that elevates every dish, from the comforting Gnocchi Quattro Formaggi to the robust Spaghetti Carbonara. The extensive menu ensures there is something for every palate, whether you're in the mood for a light Caprese salad, a hearty Bistecca Tagliata, or a classic Linguine Vongole. The desserts are equally commendable, offering the perfect sweet ending to a delicious meal.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Cellini is a major reason for its enduring appeal. It manages to feel both cozy and upscale, a rare combination that creates a perfect backdrop for any occasion. The romantic ambiance makes it a go-to spot for anniversaries and special dates, while its ability to accommodate groups makes it a great choice for family celebrations or corporate dinners. The staff, known for their longevity and professionalism, contributes significantly to the welcoming and familiar feeling. Their expertise, especially regarding the extensive wine list, enhances the overall dining experience, ensuring you find the perfect pairing for your meal. In a city where restaurants come and go, Cellini’s nearly three-decade-long presence is a strong indicator of its consistent excellence. For anyone in New York looking for a classic, authentic, and truly memorable Italian meal, Cellini is undoubtedly a top contender.
Cellini Menu
MENU - Antipasti
- Caprese e Peperoni $20.00
Imported buffalo mozzarella, yellow beef steak tomatoes, roasted peppers
- Carpaccio di Manzo $24.00
Beef tenderloin, arugula, hearts of palm, shaved Parmesan, white truffle oil
- Calamari Grigliati $23.00
Grilled Atlantic calamari, arugula & endives salad, sundried tomatoes, lemon vinaigrette
- Vongole al Forno $22.00
Baked littleneck clams, seasoned breadcrumbs, white wine, lemon, parsley
- Gamberi Toscana $24.00
Broiled ocean shrimp, cannellini beans, garlic, rosemary, tomato, olive oil
- Polpo Pugliese $25.00
Mediterranean octopus, tomato, capers, chick peas, arugula, red onions, lemon, olive oil
MENU - Insalate
- Verde Mista V $13.00
Organic mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, radish, sweet roasted shallots vinaigrette
- Tre Colore $14.00
Arugula, endives, radicchio, sun dried tomato, shaved parmesan, lemon vinaigrette
- Cesare $16.00
Hearts of romaine, classic Caesar dressing, toasted croutons, shaved parmesan
- Bianca $18.00
Endives, artichokes, hearts of palm, white mushrooms, shaved parmesan, champagne vinaigrette
MENU - Pasta
- Penne alla Norma $22.00
Home style tomato sauce, bufala mozzarella, baby eggplant, basil
- Spaghetti Carbonara $24.00
Imported pancetta, organic egg, pecorino cheese, cracked black pepper
- Rigatoni Bolognese $25.00
Classic home style beef and pork ragu, tomato sauce, fresh herbs
- Linguine Vongole $28.00
Little neck clams, white wine, olive oil, fresh herbs, roasted garlic, chilies
- Linguine Frutti di Maree $32.00
Ocean shrimp, calamari, crabmeat, lobster, scallops, tomato broth
- Gnocchi Quattro Formaggi $25.00
Handcrafted potato dumpling, four cheese sauce, fresh spinach
- Rigatoni Matriciana $24.00
Tomato sauce, imported pancetta, sautéed onions, fresh garden peas
- Spaghetti Polpette $26.00
Home style meatballs, fresh plum tomato sauce, parsley
MENU - Risotto
- Pescatore $34.00
Prosecco wine, ocean shrimp, calamari, scallops, crabmeat, lobster, tomato broth, fresh herbs
- Tre funghi $32.00
Wild mushrooms, puree of porcini, shaved parmesan cheese, rosemary, thyme, drizzled white truffle oil
MENU - Pesce
- Salmone Primavera $32.00
Broiled center cut salmon, julienne vegetables, honey Dijon mustard sauce
- Spada Livornese $38.00
Center cut swordfish, imported olives, garlic, capers, onions, cherry tomato sauce
- Tonno Balsamico $39.00
Grilled tuna (served rare) drizzled with aged balsamic reduction
- Gamberi al Limone $39.00
Broiled ocean shrimp, virgin olive oil, white wine, garlic, lemon, parsley
MENU - Carne
- Pollo Pizzaiola $26.00
Medallions of chicken, cherry tomato sauce, oregano, buffalo mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil
- Pollo Carciofi $27.00
Medallions of chicken, roasted artichokes, sundried tomatoes, capers, lemon, white wine
- Pollo Parmigiana $28.00
Breaded chicken cutlet, mozzarella, plum tomato sauce, grated parmesan cheese
- Vitello Milanese $32.00
Breaded veal cutlet, buffalo mozzarella, tomato, arugula, shallot vinaigrette
- Vitello Pantelleria $38.00
Veal scaloppini, capers, roasted artichokes, lemon- wine sauce, olive oil, parsley
- Vitello Parmigiana $34.00
Breaded veal cutlet, mozzarella, plum tomato sauce, grated parmesan cheese
- Bistecca Tagliata $32.00
Grilled aged (sliced) sirloin steak, Salad of arugula, tomato, endive, shaved parmesan
- Filet Mignon $42.00
Pan seared medallions of beef, sautéed wild mushrooms, Madeira wine sauce
Desserts Menu
- CHOCOLATE MOUSSE $11.95
- LEMON TORTA DELL NONNA $11.95
- CREME BRULEE $11.95
- TIRAMISU $11.95
with savoiardi ladyfingers
- RICOTTA CHEESECAKE $11.95
with fresh raspberry sauce
- APPLE TARTE $11.95
with vanilla ice cream & fresh raspberry sauce
- TARTUFO $11.95
with whipped cream
- SORBETTI $11.95
lemon raspberry
- ICE CREAM $11.95
vanilla chocolate
Cellini Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Cellini Photos










Cellini Location
Cellini Reviews
food and servicepartyentreesdiningvealgnocchilinguineoctopusburratasalmon
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1My Favorite Italian Restaurant in ManhattanIf you’re looking for an authentic Italian dining experience in Manhattan, look no further than this charming family-owned gem that has been delighting patrons for nearly 30 years. The warmth of the staff, many of whom have been with the restaurant since its inception, creates a welcoming atmosphere where you’re sure to see familiar faces on every visit.The food is nothing short of spectacular, with everything made fresh in-house. My personal favorites are the Gnocchi and Lobster Ravioli, both of which are rich in flavor and expertly crafted. Each dish showcases the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition.The extensive wine selection is another highlight, with options available by the glass, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal. I particularly enjoy the Chardonnay from Glenville, which is served in generously sized glasses—perfect for savoring every sip.The restaurant spans three floors, adding to its charm and accommodating various dining experiences. The wine cellar downstairs is ideal for private parties, offering a unique setting for special occasions.If you haven't checked this place out yet, you absolutely should. It’s a true treasure in Manhattan’s dining scene!
October 14 · HelenaHave been here many times. Always excellent before, but now something was different. Always split the appetizer salad because it used to be so big it was a meal. Now, two HALF slices of tomato, two teaspoons of mozzarella, and four small slices of red pepper is the new norm, I guess. The entrees were fine but the wine was dreadful. They did not have the wine we ordered so they substituted something else. Never even asked us if we liked it for $20 a glass. The salad, though, was a total rip off. People apparently now can bring their own bottles of soda and ask for a glass of ice and pour up their own soda and/or bottled water - that is exactly what a large party of 10did that was nearby. So odd. The music was pop, rap, and totally inappropriate. Not returning again. Something has gone wrong here. So disappointing.
January 04 · sfzVery cute place. Great food. It small but it was packed which says something. The food was awesome and thw staff was soooo nice and attentive . Found this place randomly because it was near our hotel and was very pleased
July 15 · Gigi PeñaToday was the third or fourth time that I've dined at Cellini, but it has been about 10 years since I was here the last time. This experience was extremely memorable as the food was absolutely outstanding, way better than I remembered the previous experiences. It was truly one of the best Italian meals that I have ever had. I will 100% be back a lot sooner the next time!
August 10 · A RWe had an excellent dinner at Cellini while visiting NYC. Our Mixed Green Salad was nice and fresh. The Shrimp al Limone and Lobster Ravioli were delicious. And we enjoyed the Ricotta Cheesecake for dessert. The service was very good. The restaurant was a little bit loud but it quieted down as people left. We really enjoyed our dinner. Thank you!
June 16 · Lester Joseph
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