The first weekend after moving to New York from Chicago, my wife and I had dinner at Cellini. We chose it because we were both in a pasta mood, and it is the only midtown restaurant I could remember visiting before. We were not disappointed. Shirley had a special swordfish with arugula salad and said it was simply one of the best dishes she had ever enjoyed. I had a fantastic spaghetti carbonara. The wine list was filled with good choices -- many at reasonable prices. You can't beat a Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva. This is a neighborhood place for nearby Park Ave. residents. But it was homey and welcoming. The service could not have been better. Truly a Five Star experience. At a reasonable price for New York or anywhere. read more

You know how you see those olive garden commercials, and everyone is having a good time, and the waiters are really friendly ... and you think for a split second, I would like to go there. But then reality hits and you realize that is not how the olive garden really is. Well Cellini's really is like that. The maitre'd is a slap the men on the back, flirt shamelessly with the women type, and there are lots waiters, servers, and bus boys there to help you. The food is pretty good too. I had a chicken dish, with a madiera sauce that had raisins, pears and gorganzola cheese, that was fantastic. Followed by a lemon custard/pie thing, with pine nuts, that was also fantastic. My fellow diners (bf and friend of bf) got their signature dish, which was an Italian burrito (think one giant ravioli). It was good, but a little lacking for their signature dish. My chicken dish was much better. I would give 3.5 stars if I could ... atmosphere and service gets four stars, food gets three stars. read more

We were staying at a nearby hotel and wanted a place to have a great meal. Cellini was an easy choose as this place was recommended by 4 different local people. I made the 6:15 pm reservation on Open Table that morning. Cellini was a 15-20 minute walk from out Mid-Town Manhattan hotel which was very convenient. The hostess was accommodating, very friendly & welcoming. We were seated right away which was fine with us as we needed to leave NYC early the next morning. All our servers were also attentive & welcoming. We Green Bay, WI Folks were treated 'like family'! I ordered the Linguine Al Frutti Di Mare; Outstanding! And, my husband always orders the Linguine with Clams whenever he can. His request of red sauce was not an issue. We loved the fact that we weren't given tons of food. It was just the right amount! Thanks for a memorable meal & wine. I would highly recommend Cellini Restaurant and return next time! read more

Overpriced Italian restaurant (minimum $25 per person...not sure what that means, but that's what it said on the menu) with okay food. Nice location and setting, but the food was only okay and not cheap. We rented out a room upstairs, and when it was 10:00pm EXACTLY, the staff began to kick us out. We had spent over $1,000 on dinner, so you'd think that they'd be a bit less aggressive in kicking us out. The food was edible, but if I'm paying $25+ for an Italian meal, I expect it to be really freaking good. read more

Great spot for lunch, but it fills up very quickly. Make a reservation or beat the rush (12:15 starts getting filled). I did the risotto alla pescatore and the rice was PERFECTLY cooked and the fish was extra fresh. Great atmosphere to have a conversation and you can be in and out in an hour. Buon appetito read more

Ordered the chicken parmesan and was met with a $27 thin, rubbery cutlet with almost no flavor. The service was equally abysmal. I saw my server when he took my order and brought my food, and then never again. I had to flag down someone different after waiting for 15 min to get the check. read more

The Bartender was barely wearing clothes (Mid December mind you) and seeing 4 inches of midriff reminded me of that episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm this past season. I wouldn't have cared as much if the drinks were better. I can't speak for the food but i'm sure it's good. read more

Work dinner here a few weeks ago and this place did not disappoint. We were upstairs where it is a little more quiet so we could have a nice conversation. Only issue was had to ask them to turn up the AC as it was very hot. Food was very good. We had family style apps which came out already served on separate plate which made the process much easier than passing and serving ourselves. All the entrees were very good and everyone was pleased. I had the Dover sole and didn't love it - nothing wrong with it, just not anything to cheer about. Service was excellent and wine selection was great. Recommend coming here for a good dinner and certainly for a work meeting. read more

Nice location, nice looking restaurant, but the staff are horrible! My family went there for dinner the other night and were treated very poorly. The staff referred to them as piccinos (young child in Italian). They were seated by the door, the staff constantly bothered them to buy wine, pushing them and making them feel like there was something wrong with them for not (when they medically could not). The food was not up to par, and although it was removed from the bill, these so called "professionals" left a lasting impression that not only will my family NOT be back, but also all of our friends and colleagues. My suggestion to the owner and manager of this establishment. Don't disregard young adults who spend time at your restaurant, you never know who their family is..... read more

Came here for NYE dinner before heading out the night. Awesome service, the dishes were amazing. My friend had the salmon and I had the chicken. Wine was also awesome. Wait staff did everything they could to make sure our experience was stellar. There were balloons around which made the night special. A nice, classic Italian dinner in midtown. Perfect venue for a date! read more

This placed was recommended by a friend. This is an authentic Italian place that represents the typical good New York Italian cuisine. I went with a party of 8 and pretty much tasted every dish, food was really good. Risotto was cooked to perfection, veal Milanese was delicious, rigatoni was very good. Desserts were just as good read more

See all

One of the best dining experiences I've had. Delicious food, i had a special, vodka cream tomato sauce with butterflied shrimp. Fiancée had a cheesy risotto with veal. Her brother just had a mound of different and wonderfully prepared fish. Antipasto platter was great, beans, mushrooms, shrimp, stuffed clams, roasted red peppers, mozzarella. Definitely a more formal place. A family walked in with kids with sweatshirts and shorts and I found myself thinking they should have turned them away. Dress shirt and nice jeans at a minimum. A suit jacket would not look out of place. Also, my fiancées brother spilled red wine on my fiancée and the wait staff immediately swarmed her to help clean up. Rather amazing how fast they reacted. Cellini is real NY Italian. If the Godfather himself had walked in, I would not have been surprised. A+ service and food. read more

Super old school and kinda pricey, but possibly the best linguine alle vongole I've ever had. Good service, too.

The food was good, the ambiance was pleasing. The only thing that wasn't good was the service. They were very short and didn't seem interested in our table. I had the pan seared tuna with balsamic and it was perfect. The other two people I went with thoroughly enjoyed their good as well. Just wish the service would have been better, it left a bad taste in your mouth. read more

Cellini Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan - The Tuna - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

Five stars for service, four stars for food. The best service I've received in a long time. The atmosphere is wonderful; you can actually participate in conversations and hear one another. I will make sure to visit this restaurant every time I'm in NYC. Thank you, Cellini! read more

Have been here for lunch a few times now. If you are in midtown and in the mood for Italian, this place is worth checking out. I recommend the beef carpaccio, the buffalo mozzarella salad, and the eggplant parmigiana. Avoid the risotto and getting seated next to people in your industry. read more

Great Italien, small setting, great midtown location

Came for a private function in the upstairs area. The service was fine as was the food. Nothing spectacular but not terrible either. It was a standard group meal - salad, entree, dessert. Pasta was fine. read more

Went for a Networking Lunch. I really have nothing bad to say about this place. Very efficient from the time I walked in. They immediately asked me if I wanted to check my coat and sat me with my party, who had already arrived. They brought each of us bread and focaccia while we reviewed the menu, rather than one large bread basket for all to share. The food came out incredibly fast - it felt like 10 minutes. The food was delicious. I ordered the spinach gnocchi - just fantastic! Everyone else finished off their food quickly. They also brought out delicious mini biscottis after the meal and asked if we wanted to order coffee or dessert. We ordered coffee, espresso, and cappuccino. My coffee was a bit colder than I would have liked, but decent flavor. The entire meal experience was one hour from sitting to leaving. Very prompt and delicious. Highly recommended for a business lunch. read more

I'm almost chagrined to give this nice midtown Italian only three stars. The food, which would otherwise merit a solid four stars, could not hold up to the service, which gets a three at best. Granted I visited this place as a last minute salvo on New Year's Eve, of all nights, but I know they can do better. How a party of five managed to get a table at any restaurant at 9:30pm on NYE is beyond me. Friends of ours were staying at the Waldorf Astoria for NYE and this place was recommended them by the hotel conceirge. Although we were seated promptly, there were problems from the very beginning. The $85 NYE prix fixe (five courses with plenty of options in each course) was sold out. So we had to order from the rather dearly-priced menu. Then the dish I wanted was sold out, and so was its replacement. But the dish I wanted from the prix fixe was available, only not at the prix fixe price. At this point I felt like saying "whatever..." just bring me spaghetti and meatballs! But luckily, my negative attitude was not indulged and the Chilean sea bass I ordered was tender, buttery, and probably some of the best I've had in the city (prepared in a lemon-butter sauce with sliced almonds). My friends' dishes were also good. I heard rave reviews of the veal medallions and lamb shank, and our tiramisu deserts were fantastic. The tab was reasonable considering the round of cocktails and two bottles of wine we ordered. The waiters were flirtatious and funny and nearly obnoxious had their comments gotten any more familiar. But a few well-placed "bellas" can do wonders. They delivered the bad news of dishes being sold out with equal proportions of humor and pathos, making it difficult to be really that upset. The decor is rustic farmhouse and the atmosphere cozy and ideal for familes. This isn't my top choice were I looking for a moderately pricey Italian, but it's a good option to have in one's pocket. read more

We came with a large party for a business meeting, there were about 8 or 10 of us total. They were very accommodating towards us, and we secured a reservation. They put together a nice antipasto for us, and the focaccia was excellent as well. I ended up getting them to make me a homemade tagliatelle with a different tomao based sauce made extra spicy. The dish was good, but the sauce didn't have that great tomato taste to it, it was actually quite bland aside from the spice I had them add. The service was also a bit slow, and a bit disorganized. I had to ask for water 3 or 4 times, they were filling the Prosecco often :) Overall it was decent, but there are better spots in NYC for sure. read more

This is a great place that I would go to again and again. I would bring family, coworkers, and customers. I've enjoyed many emails here, and I've had different types of foods that they prepare very well. I love the atmosphere I love the coziness, I'm a fan read more

See all

I went to Cellini Restaurant today for a business lunch. The place has a bit of an old school flare, but I think they have been there for many years, this is the reason for its decor. We had reservations and were seated immediately. The service staff was courteous and attentive. I ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara. It was a bit salty but I think it was because of the panchetta. Other than that it was delicious and the portion was big for lunch. My coworker had the Spaghetti Con Polpette. That dish was delicious! I would definitely go back there for lunch or maybe for dinner as well, I did enjoy the food and the service. Oh and to my surprise they have a 2nd floor, all this time I was assuming the place was tiny! read more

I came here for a work lunch with my colleagues and they were extremely busy! The food and service was great but the portions were extremely small. I ordered the cheese ravioli and only 4 came in the serving, leaving me hungry even after I ate. For the prices, the portions should definitely be bigger but it seemed like it was mostly a corporate crowd during lunch time so maybe that is the ambiance they are going for. read more

This was a calculatedly random find. Was going to an event with my hubby in the area, so rather than pre-select a restaurant we walked around the 'hood looking at restaurant menus that looked appealing. Although there were a few good contenders, this was a good pick. We were sat right away at a great table without a reservation. Coat check, nice. Waiter was prompt, good. Menu selection, well, it got us in the joint... The burrata/prosciutto special was terrific and a good portion size, very shareable. Sea bass main course was devine. It was light, well cooked and well seasoned. The only caveat being its one of those restaurants where you have to place your whole order at once, which really isn't a big deal for me. After telling the waiter we wanted apps and then would see where we would go with our main course, our waiter said we couldn't do that and everything needed to be ordered/submitted into the kitchen at once because 'The chef is complicated.' It's great getting some BOH intel from your waiter ...and even better when a complicated chef makes such great classic Italian standards. Bravo! read more

The service was good. The food was fine. The prices weren't that bad. What I will remember, though is the music. An Italian restaurant that seemed to be upscale played 70s tunes nonstop. It was incongruous to hear "Lonesome Loser," "Fire and Rain," and "Slip Sliding Away" instead of arias, Sinatra or Dean Martin. It wouldn't stop me from going back, but it was strange. read more

Cellini was a nice surprise after a travel day into NYC. Near the office, I found this small venue. The waitstaff was prompt and courteous, but not obsequious. They bring you bruschetta, olives, and cheese along with freshly baked bread. Very nice touch. I had the tilapia in a nice white wine sauce with lemon and tarragon. It was very nicely seasoned. My colleague had the chicken pounded with arugula salad enjoyed it very much. Quick nice service. Very good food. I would come back. read more

We got there early, 5 pm on Sunday. Greeted and seated by a very gracious server. Had Stella Artois and enjoyed the onion bread before ordering. I had a mixed green salad, served chilled, crispy lettuce, succulent tomatoes, vinaigrette. Our entrees were the house specialty imbustata, a large ravioli filled with chicken, almonds, spinach, thyme, smothered in a rich golden butter cream sauce. Too die for! My partner had a piping hot bowl of rigatoni bologne . Also quite tasty. The espresso puts Pete's to shame. We will use Cellini as our go to Italian bistro midtown. read more

Where do I start...hosted a private work dinner and everything was absolutely flawless...the food, service, atmosphere, etc. Thank you to the manager and staff for creating such a memorable experience. We are already looking forward to next time... read more

I have been here several times because it is one block over from my office and every time I have been here, I have been pleased with their excellent, authentic 'like home-made' Italian dishes, as well as with their efficient & very friendly servers. I have read a few negative reviews about their service, but I've never encountered a problem, so I decided I would finally post my review of this place, to share my good experience. -Just today I was there for a friend's farewell lunch & since I could not make up my mind between my favorite Tre Funghi Risotto with truffle oil & their Penne all' Amatriciana, our server very nicely offered to accommodate me with1/2 an entrée of each so I could "have the best of both worlds & not have to choose". He was also very fair, taking time to break down on the bill a 1/2 charge for each of the 2 dishes, rather than just charging me for the most expensive of the two dishes, which would have been fair considering the extra effort in the kitchen & also my server. In addition they quickly brought out our orders & were continually mindful of refilling our water glasses & clearing away empty plates as we progressed with our meal. To me this is very good & friendly service and this was not just today. Every time I have been here, it has been this efficient. -The food is delicious, clearly prepared with quality, fresh ingredients and after today's excellent service experience, it is now my favorite midtown Italian. read more

Cellini Italian Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan - Risotto Tre Funghi - Italian Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Cellini is one of the better midtown East lunch locations. The room is elegant enough to bring clients, and spacious enough where you can actually carry on a conversation without shouting. The food offered is your typical upscale-ish Southern Italian and Roman style food. The Alla Matriciana, while not traditional by any stretch is excellent, as is the carbonara. The pasta is always properly cooked, and the sauces balanced between salty and sweet. The fish dishes are excellent as well. If I'm getting fish, I usually get the tuna with the balsamic reduction. The tuna is always very fresh, although you have to emphasize rare if that is how you want it as I have had it come out overcooked. On the antipasta side, I would definitely recommend the tenderized octopus. The service is efficient and friendly, and they will get you out quickly to get on with your day. The prices are good for upscale midtown. So, this isn't a restaurant I would travel out of my way for for dinner or anything, but as a good lunch location when you are spending a little money it is excellent. Russ read more

This was a very good meal. I have the Veal Scallopini which was awesome. The lentil soup and creme brûlée were good too. Atmosphere was good! Service was decent. For some reason we felt rushed. Not sure why. Prices were okay, but not great. read more

First time dining at Cellini`s. Excellent, attentive service. Extensive and reasonably priced wine list. Food was well prepared and reasonably priced for quality and quantity. My wife and I both baby boomers hosted our nephew and his friend both millennial. Great food and intimate setting. Bueno appetito read more

Came highly recommended but didn't do too much for me. Has a nice homey feeling and the staff were very friendly if not effusive. The food was average though. I wanted to go back into the kitchen and yelp, "Hey Luigi, kick it up a notch, will ya?". The place just seemed average. The prices were not. I have, however, been convinced to give it another try.. read more

Was part of a large group of 30+ people. We were seated upstairs in a private area. The service was very good, with water and wine full at all times. The appetizers were good, especially the meatballs and bruschetta. The chicken Parmesan for main course was excellent, and the serving size was large. read more

With all the positive reviews here I thought this place would be a slam dunk for a date recently in the city. However, this was unfortunately not the case. First issue was the bread. While it was good bread they only gave 2 very small pieces and never came back around to ask if we wanted more. For the prices they charge you wouldn't expect them to be stingy on the bread. Second issue was I ordered two glasses of wine, which never came. Fortunately, they were also never on the bill. I ordered the rigatoni with meat sauce which was OK. It was so hot though that I got the impression it was microwaved. And afterwards my stomach hurt just a little bit. My date got the salmon and she got full blown food poisoning. The chocolate cake for dessert was pretty good but definitely doesn't make amends for my dates experience. read more

My go to Italian Spot in NYC. Been here several times and every time the service has been on point, and the food excellent. My gf loves the gnocchi. The Imbustata house specialty is also excellent. I love the atmosphere and would recommend to anyone I know for a great night out. read more

A favorite of mine whenever I am in NYC. Service is great and food is outstanding (chicken parm is a hearty plate full!). The quaint place can get very busy at times but I encourage you to try it! read more

Had dinner here on December 7 with two out-of-town friends and was very impressed. Service was outstanding, the food choices were superb and the wine list was good. The food arrived really quickly and was delicious. I'd come back. read more

Food: 9/10 - really good Room: 5/10 - dated and a bit worn - like maybe they are running out the lease?. Service: 5/10 - mechanical and not particularly welcoming - indifferent Took a party of 10 to Cellini the other night - internal business dinner. I've been there several times in the past, although not for a few years. On the plus side, round tables (key for large groups) upstairs and quiet enough that you can have a good conversation. Food was good ( branzino, risotto - no complaints from anyone), reasonable prices, good wine list. On the negative side, the place has gotten shabby. Downstairs is a bit cramped and tired. Upstairs is not cramped but still tired. Service-wise, i have no huge problem with adding on an automatic 20% tip for a large party, but you should at least pretend to earn it. I don't need much, but I want to feel a little welcomed and I would like the waiter to be at least a little attentive - our guy was at best mailing it in. So... Would i take a new client? no Would i take a date? not unless we had been dating for a long time Would i take a group of old friends for good food and hopefully good conversation? probably. Will i return in the near future? meh read more