Caffe Falai
(212) 274-8615
265 Lafayette St
New York,
NY
10012
40.7234
-73.9966
Neighborhoods: Downtown, NoLita
What People Are Saying About Caffe Falai
The Editor
Justin Hartung
Citysearch
The Scene
One couldn't be blamed for calling the decor at Iacopo Falai's three eponymous Manhattan ventures washroom chic. Everything at this cafe gleams white--the tiles covering the walls, the sparkling chandeliers hanging above the bar seating, even the mirror frames. In fact, pretty much the only color deviations come courtesy of shiny silver water pitchers and the multihued shopping bags of Soho day-trippers resting their Prada-clad feet.
The Food
If the space is monochromatic, the light, fresh and frequently changing Italian menu presents a kaleidoscope of flavors. Seared tuna medallions in a salad balance the fish's subtle flavor with a kicky spice rub, while tender beets freshen up fried mozzarella slabs. Smoky pancetta anchors two dishes: a pasta dish made with ribbons of soft, house-made buckwheat parpadelle, sun-dried cherry tomatoes and broccoli rabe, and a moist branzino filet reposing in a basil-flecked sauce. Bombolones, golf ball-shaped pastries filled with jelly, are Gucci belt-loosening good.
User Reviews
Raquelina
March 22, 2009
Some friends I made while traveling in Italy came to visit NY, and upon recommendations from friends of theirs, we met for brunch at the caffe. It was not only beautiful but the food was truly spectacular. The Polipo octopus dish was so good we ordered a second dish for the table! Next were homemade pasta dishes; the one with mushroom and cauliflower was my favorite. A cappuccino and slice of complimentary 'crepe cake' made this a completely enjoyable brunch. Great selection of Italian wines and friendly Italian waiters a plus!
read full review
CSMobileUser
March 02, 2009
We decided to start new year's day with a nice breakfast in Soho. The Caffee Falai interior looked charming and inviting, but as we walked the impression turned out to be wrong. The waitress was unfriendly. Since it was around noon there were only two choices for breakfast left; baked eggs and panini. The food was horrible, tasteless and very expensive!! The only good thing was the coffee! Not recommending!
read full review
arts10022
January 04, 2009
My guest and I were thrilled to stumble upon Caffe Falai just around the corner from busy Broadway in Soho last month. The sparkle of candlelight, crystal, and white linens drew us into a welcoming atmosphere. After asking for help with the wine, a luscious bottle of white from San Gimignano provided the perfect start to our meal. A light tomato and bread soup was followed by a salad of delicate greens and avocado dressed with whtie truffle oil. A perfect al dente linguini with a sauce of parmesan and lemon zest was amazing. Tiny biscotti with expresso ended the meal perfectly. The collection of mirrors hung at various heights along the outter wall of the restaurant proved not to be mere decoration. In fact, they provided the diner with a clever, yet subtle way, of watching the reflected activity on the street, in the kitchen, and among fellow diners. This restaurant has great potential. The subtle and beautifully crafted food is glorious. Be patient, show appreciation, and you will be rewarded.
read full reviewThe Details on Caffe Falai
BYOB:
Though wine bottles are displayed above the bar, the cafe is BYOB for now, so make a pit sop at Centovini Wine Shop nearby.
Know Before You Go:
Give your credit card a rest after a hard day of charging--this joint is cash only.
Brunch:
Egg dishes satisfy morning cravings that go beyond the front pastry counter.
Delivery:
Delivery is available for orders more than $10.
When to Go:
Though no reservations are taken, this is one restaurant where you might have better luck getting a table immediately if you go for dinner rather than lunch or brunch.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
B.Y.O.B., Brunch, Lunch Spot, Food Delivery, Dine At The Bar
