Carmine's

11/08/09

Great

by kkkkk01 at Citysearch

Whether one is looking for a unique, family-style dining experience or simply a magnificent meal, Carmine’s is the place to go.

As you step into the lively environment, your senses are awoken as the smell of fresh, home-cooked Italian cuisine wafts into your nose, readying your taste buds for what is to come. The décor is nostalgic: a grand ballroom with high Victorian ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and charming portraits and paintings lining the walls. To the right lies a fully equipped bar, lined with antique, wooden barstools, while in the back sits a grand marble staircase leading up to the second floor. The lighting is neither dim nor bright, and the temperature neither cold nor hot, making the restaurant an ideal place to enjoy a delightful and leisurely meal.

From the moment you are seated, a waiter will introduce him or herself, supply you with a basket of freshly baked bread, and describe the various mouthwatering specials. Each of the restaurant’s waters and waitresses were clean-cut and well-trained, catering to the customer’s every need. The service was helpful and attentive, without being too pushy

• Pros: really good
• Cons: not bad

07/29/09

Attention: Garlic Lovers! No Vampires Allowed!

by AntonEgo at Citysearch

Excellent place for the whole family to enjoy a great Italian dining experience. Food is service 'Family-Style' which means each dish serves 4 people so sharing is a must. Easy ordering with oversized Menus on the walls. Carmine's is a must for any special occasion in which you want to leave a lasting impression and a memory that will not fade anytime soon! Garlic is abundant but easily difused with complimentary mouthwash in the washrooms! Its location in the heart of time square and located in the middle of the theater district, its a 'Must-See' compliment to any Broadway show!

• Pros: Middle of 'Times Square'! Large Family Portions! Garlic!
• Cons: Crowded so service can be delayed!

05/25/09

Great Food, Horrible Service and Attitude

by tehnewyork at Citysearch

If you live in the neighborhood, order this in. The staff is downright rude and inefficient. It is a shame because Carmine's is a wonderful family restaurant. We live in the area and have always enjoyed the food but over the years it has become a place for tourists, celebrations and other out of towners...i.e. B&T folk! They must not mind this sort of service but I do. I must have asked for silverware 5 times before someone else brought it to me after saying, he is busy with other parties to deal with, sorry we were only 8 people. The waiter practically ignored us and the prices are outrageous. My children ordered plain pasta, fine $7 but it was so small even they were complaining, while the grown ups had tons of food. It would not hurt them to throw a few additional noodles on the kids plate. Finally we asked that my children receive their food as soon as it was ready. Instead they brought it with our entrees. One of my children fell asleep (he is 9) before the food ever arrived, we had to wake him to eat. Sadly folks who eat here from out of town probably do think New Yorkers are rude if based on the staff here, I would too!

• Pros: Food
• Cons: Everything Else