Carbone New York Menu: Italian Classics & Pricing
Carbone, a celebrated Italian-American restaurant, sits at 181 Thompson Street in Greenwich Village. It has redefined classic dining since its opening. The restaurant offers sophisticated culinary experiences between Bleecker and Houston Streets.
Chef Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick founded Carbone in 2013. Their vision focused on heritage-driven Italian-American cuisine using top-quality ingredients. The average price per person is $105, reflecting premium ingredients and Michelin recognition.
Carbone serves lunch Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30am to 2:00pm. Dinner is available Monday through Sunday from 5:00pm to 11:30pm. The Thompson Street landmark boasts a mid-century aesthetic and signature dishes.
This dining spot delivers authentic experiences where every plate tells a story. Guests encounter a commitment to quality upon entering. Carbone has become a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking genuine Italian-American flavors.
About Carbone Restaurant in Greenwich Village
Carbone breathed new life into Thompson Street’s historic dining scene. This carbone italian restaurant NYC blends old-world glamour with modern sophistication. Its design transports diners to the golden age of Italian-American dining.
Classic Glamour Meets Modern Excellence
The carbone greenwich village space features burgundy leather banquettes lining the dining room walls. Gold accents sparkle under art deco fixtures. Polished wood and marble details complete the mid-century aesthetic.
Vintage Italian movie posters and 1950s photographs adorn the walls. These elements create an authentic atmosphere of classic New York dining. The space captures the era when Italian-American restaurants were the height of elegance.
Captains in Zac Posen tuxedos provide theatrical tableside service. This attention to detail extends beyond the food. The service style makes each visit memorable.
Carbone honors its red sauce heritage while elevating execution to fine dining standards. Traditional dishes receive meticulous preparation using premium ingredients. This approach respects the cuisine’s roots while showcasing culinary expertise.
Industry Recognition and Critical Praise
Major Food Group created carbone italian restaurant NYC to celebrate Italian-American culinary traditions. The restaurant has earned Michelin recognition for its classic dishes. This achievement places Carbone among New York’s top dining spots.
The New York Times called carbone greenwich village “a fancy red-sauce joint as directed by Quentin Tarantino.” The review praised the restaurant’s “technical prowess that can make you giddy.” This comparison highlights both the theatrical energy and culinary skill.
Critical acclaim has made reservations highly sought-after at this Greenwich Village gem. The carbone michelin star menu attracts food lovers, celebrities, and tourists alike. The restaurant maintains its status through consistent quality and attention to detail.
Industry recognition confirms Carbone’s success in elevating Italian-American cuisine. Its blend of nostalgia and modern technique creates a unique dining experience. This balance explains why Carbone continues to excite diners years after opening.
Complete Carbone New York Menu Overview and Philosophy
Carbone Manhattan blends old-world traditions with modern execution and premium ingredients. This sets it apart from other Italian dining concepts. The focus is on honoring recipes from Italian-American culinary history.
Each dish on the Carbone New York menu is carefully researched. The restaurant recreates the dining experience of Little Italy’s best establishments. Authenticity guides every menu decision, maintaining high standards for ingredients and preparation.
Italian-American Heritage and Culinary Approach
Chef Mario Carbone’s style comes from two distinct Italian traditions in his family. His maternal grandparents brought northern Italian refinement to Queens. His paternal relatives embraced the Sicilian philosophy of abbondanza—generous portions and hospitality.
This dual heritage shaped Carbone’s menu. Northern Italian precision meets southern Italian generosity in every dish. The balance creates a refined yet satisfying dining experience.
After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Carbone spent a year in Italy. He studied regional cooking, worked in traditional kitchens, and learned time-honored techniques. This deepened his understanding of authentic Italian flavors.
The Carbone New York menu celebrates Italian-American classics from the 1950s to 1970s. These dishes represent a time when Italian immigrants adapted their recipes to American tastes.
Every signature dish draws inspiration from Little Italy’s culinary golden age. Recipes are researched from historical sources and refined through modern techniques. The kitchen uses premium ingredients to elevate traditional preparations.
The menu emphasizes top-quality components in every dish. Imported Italian products are paired with fine American meats and seafood. This commitment ensures classic dishes reach their full flavor potential.
Understanding Carbone Manhattan Prices
The average price per person at Carbone is about $105. This reflects several factors that contribute to the dining experience. Understanding these elements helps diners appreciate the value.
Carbone Manhattan prices account for high-quality ingredients. The kitchen uses dry-aged prime beef, imported pasta, and fresh seafood. These premium components significantly impact menu costs.
Tableside service adds value to the experience. Captains prepare signature dishes at your table using specialized equipment. This performance element requires additional staff training and coordination.
Location also affects pricing. The Greenwich Village restaurant operates in a desirable Manhattan neighborhood. Real estate costs in this area naturally influence operational expenses.
Michelin recognition validates Carbone’s culinary excellence. The kitchen maintains high standards, requiring experienced chefs and rigorous quality control. This consistency demands significant investment in talent and training.
| Price Factor | Impact on Cost | Guest Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Ingredients | Dry-aged meats, imported products, daily seafood deliveries | Superior flavor and authenticity in every dish |
| Tableside Service | Specialized training, additional staff, equipment investment | Theatrical presentation and personalized attention |
| Prime Location | Greenwich Village real estate and operational costs | Historic neighborhood atmosphere and accessibility |
| Culinary Excellence | Michelin-caliber chefs, rigorous quality standards | Consistently exceptional food execution |
The overall production value justifies the cost for special occasions. Guests enjoy more than just food—they experience Italian-American culinary heritage. Attention to detail extends from ingredient selection through final presentation.
Budget-conscious diners can focus on signature pasta dishes and shared appetizers. The Carbone New York menu offers flexible ordering options. Smart choices allow guests to enjoy acclaimed cooking while managing costs.
Carbone Manhattan prices are competitive with other Michelin-recognized Italian restaurants. The $105 per person average is typical for this caliber of dining. The experience delivers value through nostalgia, quality, and theatrical presentation.
Appetizers and Antipasti with Pricing
The Carbone New York menu offers classic starters with premium ingredients. Each antipasti reflects mid-century Italian-American dining traditions. Guests can choose from cold, hot, and seafood-focused options to start their meal.
Appetizer prices range from $18 to $42. The menu balances accessibility with luxury offerings. Portions are designed for sharing, but individual diners can enjoy most starters as personal courses.
Cold Antipasti Selection
Cold starters at Carbone showcase ingredient quality through minimal preparation. The olive oil-dunked mozzarella arrives with high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This simple dish lets the cheese’s freshness shine through.
The seafood cocktail honors classic Italian-American steakhouse tradition. Fresh shellfish is served chilled with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. It offers a refreshing start before richer courses.
Seasonal salads and cured meats round out the cold antipasti options. The restaurant rotates offerings based on ingredient availability. Servers can suggest lighter starters for those interested.
Hot Appetizers and Signature Starters
Hot appetizers showcase Carbone’s approach to red-sauce classics. The trio of meatballs features three variations topped with melted cheese and fried basil. This dish shows refined technique applied to comfort food.
The crusty garlic bread is both an appetizer and table favorite. Baked golden with butter and garlic, it pairs well with pasta courses. Many guests order multiple rounds throughout their meal.
Minestrone soup offers a lighter beginning. This classic features seasonal vegetables in a tomato-based broth. It’s served hot with grated Parmesan on the side.
Other hot starters include fried calamari and baked clams. These dishes follow traditional recipes with high-quality ingredients. Servers often recommend appetizers based on main course selections.
Seafood Appetizers
Carbone offers various ocean-focused starters throughout the year. Shrimp preparations include hot and cold options, with pricing reflecting market availability. Portions typically include four to six pieces.
The restaurant sources seafood daily to ensure freshness. Oysters appear seasonally when quality meets the restaurant’s standards. They’re served on ice with traditional accompaniments.
Servers can suggest appetizer and main course pairings for seafood lovers. These starters preview the kitchen’s skill with ocean ingredients. They’re popular choices for first-time diners exploring the menu.
| Appetizer | Category | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil-Dunked Mozzarella | Cold Antipasti | Fresh mozzarella with premium extra virgin olive oil | $22 |
| Seafood Cocktail | Cold Seafood | Fresh shellfish with cocktail sauce and lemon | $32 |
| Trio of Meatballs | Hot Antipasti | Three meatballs with melted cheese and fried basil | $28 |
| Crusty Garlic Bread | Hot Antipasti | Baked bread with butter and garlic | $18 |
| Minestrone Soup | Hot Antipasti | Traditional vegetable soup with Parmesan | $20 |
| Shrimp Appetizer | Hot Seafood | Market preparation, 4-6 pieces | $38 |
| Baked Clams | Hot Seafood | Stuffed clams with breadcrumb topping | $34 |
Carbone’s appetizers set the tone for the entire dining experience. Guests often order multiple starters to share family-style. This lets tables sample both cold and hot dishes while building excitement for the main course.
Signature Pasta Dishes at Carbone Restaurant New York City
Carbone’s pasta fame in New York City is unmatched. Their carbone restaurant signature pasta dishes elevate mid-century Italian-American classics. Premium ingredients and precise techniques create exceptional flavors that have become iconic.
The pasta menu is the heart of Carbone’s dining experience. It showcases the kitchen’s technical mastery and deep understanding of Italian-American cooking.
Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
The Spicy Rigatoni Vodka is Carbone’s most celebrated creation. It features al dente rigatoni in a rich, creamy tomato-vodka sauce with a spicy kick. The velvety sauce clings to each pasta tube, delivering consistent flavor.
Priced at $36, it’s among the best dishes at carbone. The heat level warms without overwhelming, letting the tomatoes and cream shine through.
This dish has legendary status in New York’s dining scene. Many consider it a must-order during any visit to the restaurant.
Mario’s Legendary Carta di Musica Pasta
The Carta di Musica is Chef Mario Carbone’s namesake creation. It offers a theatrical presentation and exceptional flavor. This carbone mario pasta arrives with a dramatic tableside preparation.
Priced at $42, it showcases the chef’s creative vision. The dish honors Italian techniques while transforming the dining experience into a culinary spectacle.
Carta di Musica balances delicate pasta with bold accompaniments. It creates a memorable dish that goes beyond traditional pasta expectations.
Spaghetti Vongole and Linguine Specialties
The Linguini Vongole shows Carbone’s commitment to premium seafood pasta. Fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley coat the linguini in a light sauce. The clams are perfectly cooked and tender.
At $38, it delivers authentic Italian flavors. The dish balances brininess from clams with bright garlic and wine notes.
The Spaghetti alla Gricia features guanciale and pecorino romano. Priced at $34, this Roman classic showcases quality cured pork and aged cheese. Simple ingredients contribute distinct flavors and textures.
Fresh Pasta Prices and Portions
All pasta dishes are fresh daily and serve as substantial individual portions. Sharing is possible for those who prefer variety. The pasta selection is central to the Carbone experience.
The complete pasta selection with current pricing includes:
| Pasta Dish | Price | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Rigatoni Vodka | $36 | Individual serving |
| Carta di Musica | $42 | Individual serving |
| Linguini Vongole | $38 | Individual serving |
| Spaghetti alla Gricia | $34 | Individual serving |
| Bucatini all’Amatriciana | $35 | Individual serving |
Pasta portions are satisfying without being excessive. Most diners find one pasta course appropriate when ordering multiple courses. The best dishes at carbone often include at least one pasta selection.
Prices reflect premium ingredients, fresh preparation, and technical expertise. Planning for at least one pasta course per person ensures guests experience Carbone’s culinary philosophy.
Main Courses, Steaks, and Entrees
Carbone New York’s main courses showcase classic Italian-American proteins at Michelin-star levels. Each entree features premium ingredients and tableside service. The menu offers veal, beef, poultry, and seafood options in substantial portions.
Prices reflect the exceptional quality and Greenwich Village location. Most entrees range from the mid-fifties to over one hundred dollars.
Veal Parmigiana and Veal Specialties
The Veal Parmigiana is Carbone’s signature main course. It features a tender, pounded veal cutlet breaded, fried, and topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella.
Chefs pound the veal for even thickness and tenderness. The breading stays crispy, and the cheese melts perfectly when served.
- Veal Marsala – Medallions sautéed with mushrooms in sweet Marsala wine sauce
- Veal Milanese – Breaded cutlet served with arugula and lemon
- Veal Saltimbocca – Topped with prosciutto and sage in white wine butter
Veal entrees typically cost $68 to $89. These dishes come with sides chosen by the kitchen.
Premium Dry-Aged Steaks and Chops
Carbone’s steak selection features dry-aged beef with concentrated flavor and tender texture. The restaurant partners with top suppliers for prime-grade meat.
Available cuts include:
- Ribeye Steak (18 oz) – Heavily marbled with 28-day aging
- New York Strip (16 oz) – Classic steakhouse cut with robust flavor
- Porterhouse for Two (32 oz) – Combination of strip and tenderloin
- Veal Chop (14 oz) – Bone-in chop grilled to perfection
Steak prices range from $89 for individual cuts to $165 for the porterhouse. Each steak is simply seasoned to highlight the beef quality.
| Protein Category | Popular Selection | Portion Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veal | Veal Parmigiana | 12-14 oz cutlet | $68 – $89 |
| Beef Steaks | Ribeye | 16-18 oz | $89 – $125 |
| Poultry | Chicken Scarpariello | Half chicken | $52 – $64 |
| Seafood | Whole Branzino | 1.5-2 lb fish | $78 – $95 |
Chicken Scarpariello and Poultry Options
The Chicken Scarpariello combines bone-in chicken, Italian sausage, peppers, and vinegar sauce. This rustic Italian-American dish arrives sizzling in a cast-iron skillet with crispy skin and caramelized vegetables.
The vinegar sauce balances the sausage’s richness. Cherry peppers add heat while maintaining flavor harmony. Many consider this option the best value among main courses.
Other poultry dishes include:
- Chicken Parmigiana – Breaded breast with tomato sauce and mozzarella ($54)
- Pollo al Mattone – Brick-pressed half chicken with herbs ($58)
- Chicken Francese – Egg-battered cutlets in lemon-butter sauce ($52)
Chicken entrees range from $52 to $64. The portions are generous, with half-chicken preparations providing substantial servings.
Branzino and Seafood Mains
The Whole Branzino is Carbone’s premier seafood option. This Mediterranean sea bass is roasted and deboned tableside. It’s seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.
Servers expertly fillet the fish at the table. This restaurant theater combines with exceptional flavor for a memorable experience.
Other seafood entrees include:
- Lobster Fra Diavolo – Whole lobster in spicy tomato sauce ($98)
- Swordfish Siciliano – Grilled steak with capers and olives ($72)
- Shrimp Parmigiana – Jumbo shrimp breaded and baked ($68)
Seafood main courses cost $68 to $98. These dishes offer lighter alternatives while maintaining high quality standards.
Desserts, Cocktails, and Wine Selection
Carbone’s desserts and drinks receive the same attention to detail as their celebrated dishes. The restaurant’s beverage program and dessert menu honor New York’s Italian-American dining golden age. Every sweet course and cocktail reflects the quality found throughout the Carbone New York menu.
The dessert and beverage selections complete the full dining experience. Traditional Italian endings meet classic American cocktail culture in this carefully curated final chapter.
Classic Italian Desserts and Pricing
The dessert menu features traditional Italian-American favorites prepared with premium ingredients. Each sweet offering provides a fitting conclusion to the rich, flavorful meal.
The Chocolate Hazelnut Cake stands out as the signature dessert. This indulgent creation has been described as pure pleasure by guests and critics. Rich chocolate layers combine with roasted hazelnut flavors for a decadent finale.
Additional classic desserts round out the menu:
- Tiramisu – Traditional mascarpone layered dessert with espresso-soaked ladyfingers
- Cannoli – Crispy shells filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips
- Panna Cotta – Silky Italian custard served with seasonal berry compote
- Spumoni – Tri-colored Italian ice cream featuring cherry, pistachio, and chocolate
- Affogato – Vanilla gelato drowned in hot espresso
Dessert pricing aligns with Carbone Manhattan prices for premium dining. Individual desserts range from $16 to $24 per serving. The portions are generous enough for sharing between two guests.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Hazelnut Cake | Multi-layer cake with roasted hazelnuts | $22 |
| Tiramisu | Classic mascarpone and espresso dessert | $18 |
| Cannoli | Crispy shell with sweet ricotta filling | $16 |
| Panna Cotta | Creamy custard with berry sauce | $17 |
Signature Cocktails and Extensive Wine List
Carbone’s beverage program takes guests to mid-century New York’s sophisticated cocktail culture. Classic drinks are prepared with precision and premium spirits.
Signature cocktails include timeless options from old-school Italian restaurants:
- Negroni – Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth
- Manhattan – Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters
- Martini – Gin or vodka with dry vermouth, prepared to your preference
- Americano – Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water
- Old Fashioned – Bourbon or rye with sugar and bitters
Cocktail prices range from $18 to $26 depending on the spirits used. Each drink is crafted tableside or at the bar with theatrical presentation.
The wine program features an extensive collection from French, Italian, and American vineyards. The list includes both approachable options and rare vintages for collectors. Italian wines showcase regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily.
French selections emphasize Burgundy and Bordeaux. American wines highlight California’s Napa Valley and premium producers. This diverse range ensures proper pairings for every dish on the Carbone New York menu.
Wine by the glass starts at $18 to $28 per pour. Bottles range from $75 for entry-level selections to several thousand dollars for rare vintages.
Guests may bring their own wine for a corkage fee of $75 per bottle. This option allows wine enthusiasts to enjoy special bottles from their personal collections.
Understanding Carbone Manhattan prices for beverages helps guests plan their dining investment. The premium beverage program matches the quality found throughout the restaurant.
Carbone NYC Reservations and Best Dishes to Order
Carbone NYC reservations require advance planning and knowledge of official booking channels. Tables at this popular Greenwich Village spot fill up weeks ahead. Understanding the process helps secure a coveted seat.
The dining experience goes beyond just the food. Knowing what to order enhances your visit. This guide offers practical tips for your Carbone NYC adventure.
How to Secure a Reservation at Carbone
Book your table through authorized channels only. Carbone accepts reservations via several official platforms. Unofficial services can’t guarantee valid bookings.
Guests can make Carbone NYC reservations through these official methods:
- Carbone’s official website reservation system
- Resy platform (primary booking partner)
- Dorsia membership app
- Direct email to reservations@carbonenewyork.com
Reservations typically open 28 to 30 days in advance. Tables fill quickly, often within minutes. Setting alerts on booking platforms increases your chances of success.
Check for availability when reservations open, usually at midnight. Consider lunch service for better table options. Be flexible with party size and dining times.
| Reservation Method | Advance Booking Window | Best Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Resy Platform | 30 days advance | Set midnight alerts for new openings |
| Direct Email | 28-30 days advance | Include flexible date options |
| Walk-in Bar Seating | Same day only | Arrive early before service starts |
| Lunch Service | 30 days advance | Tuesday-Thursday offer more availability |
Monitor for cancellations regularly. Guests sometimes release reservations 24-48 hours before their booking. Check multiple times daily for last-minute openings.
Contact information and hours for planning your visit:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 181 Thompson Street (between Bleecker & Houston), New York, NY 10012 |
| Lunch Hours | Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30am-2:00pm |
| Dinner Hours | Monday-Sunday, 5:00pm-11:30pm |
| Reservation Email | reservations@carbonenewyork.com |
Must-Try Dishes and Insider Recommendations
Focus on signature dishes that define the Carbone experience. The best options showcase tableside service and classic Italian-American techniques. These choices represent what makes this restaurant special.
Essential orders for your first visit:
- Spicy Rigatoni Vodka – The signature pasta that built Carbone’s reputation
- Caesar Salad – Prepared tableside with theatrical presentation
- Meatball Trio – Three styles showcasing different regional approaches
- Veal Parmigiana – Massive portion with perfect breading and sauce
- Chocolate Hazelnut Cake – Rich finale with espresso
Share appetizers and pastas to sample more dishes. Most pasta dishes serve two people comfortably when shared.
Request preparations finished at your table when available. The Caesar salad and flambéed dishes highlight Carbone’s signature showmanship.
Ask your server about daily specials. Seasonal and market-driven selections offer exciting alternatives to the regular menu.
Dress Code and Dining Etiquette
Carbone enforces a formal dress code matching its old-school elegance. Dress for the occasion to avoid entry refusal.
Specific prohibited items include:
- No shorts of any kind
- No open-toed shoes or sandals
- No tank tops or sleeveless shirts
- No athletic wear or gym clothing
Men should wear dress pants with collared shirts and closed-toe leather shoes. Women can opt for dresses, skirts, or dress pants with appropriate tops.
The dress code enhances Carbone’s unique atmosphere. Dressing up adds to the special occasion feeling of the experience.
Follow traditional fine dining etiquette. Arrive on time, as tables are held for only 15 minutes. Let servers guide your meal’s pacing for the best experience.
Plan ahead, choose signature dishes, and dress appropriately for the full Carbone experience. These elements create an unforgettable night at this legendary NYC restaurant.
Conclusion
Carbone offers top-notch Italian-American cuisine in Greenwich Village. The Michelin-starred menu features spicy rigatoni vodka and veal parmigiana. Despite an average cost of $105 per person, the theatrical service creates unforgettable dining experiences.
Reservations are a must due to the restaurant’s popularity. Business casual attire is required for entry. Plan ahead to enjoy one of NYC’s most celebrated Italian eateries.
Location: 181 Thompson Street (between Bleecker & Houston), Greenwich Village, New York, NY 10012
Hours:
Lunch: Tuesday-Sunday 11:30am-2:00pm
Dinner: Monday-Sunday 5:00pm-11:30pm
Contact:
Phone: +1 212-254-3000
Email: reservations@carbonenewyork.com
Carbone blends New York culinary history with modern sophistication. Its wine list and classic Italian desserts showcase meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant continues to set standards for Italian-American dining in Manhattan.