Café Carmellini redefines fine dining in New York City

Café Carmellini, opened by chef Andrew Carmellini, showcases fine dining in a historic setting in New York City. The restaurant is located in a former Gilded Age mansion, now part of The Fifth Avenue Hotel. Its elegant design features high ceilings, chandelier lighting, and stylish decor, providing a pleasant atmosphere for diners. Carmellini has an impressive background in the culinary world, having worked at renowned restaurants in both Paris and New York. His portfolio also includes successful establishments like A Voce and Locanda Verde. He opened Café Carmellini in fall 2023, named to honor his family’s coffee business. The restaurant offers a vast wine selection, featuring 1,800 labels and 9,000 bottles, curated by experienced sommeliers. Cocktails are available for $22, and the menu includes a range of enticing dishes without overwhelming choices. Diners can enjoy various seafood, pasta, and meat options, all designed to highlight seasonal ingredients. Notably, signature dishes include sweet white asparagus, lobster risotto, and rabbit cacciatore. Desserts are crafted by pastry chef Jeffrey Wurtz and include options like sticky toffee pudding and olive oil cake. Despite being a high-end dining experience, Café Carmellini maintains a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. While prices are on the higher side, they align with other upscale restaurants in the city. Café Carmellini is quickly establishing itself as one of New York’s top dining spots.