Stepping into Carbone on Thompson Street is like taking a step back into a classic New York City Italian restaurant, but with a distinctly modern and vibrant twist. For anyone seeking an authentic yet elevated Italian-American dining experience in Greenwich Village, Carbone is a must-visit destination. This restaurant, the brainchild of the acclaimed Major Food Group team – Rich Torrisi, Jeff Zalaznick, and Mario Carbone – has successfully captured the essence of old-school charm while injecting a contemporary energy that resonates with both seasoned New Yorkers and visitors alike.
Located in the heart of Thompson Street, Carbone has revitalized a space with a rich culinary history. The restaurant boasts three distinct seating areas, each contributing to the overall ambiance. The rich blue walls, crisp white tablecloths, and comfortable, classic leather chairs create an atmosphere of understated elegance. The waiters, impeccably dressed in burgundy tuxedos, add a touch of theatrical flair and old-world service that enhances the dining experience. It’s a setting that feels both familiar and exciting, a testament to Carbone’s ability to honor tradition while pushing boundaries.
The menu at Carbone is a celebration of Italian-American classics, presented with a sense of grandeur and generous portions. The sheer size of the menu itself is a statement, hinting at the abundance of choices within. Seafood lovers will find a vast selection, promising a return visit to explore further. A memorable start to the meal is the complimentary offering: not a bread basket, but a magnificent bowl of Parmesan chunks, accompanied by slices of prosciutto and tomato-herb laden buttery bread. This initial offering sets the tone for the rich and flavorful experience to come.
While a traditional bread basket is also presented, complete with flavored olive oil, the focus remains on bold flavors. Though the aroma of garlic might be noticeable even before entering, the kitchen is adept at tailoring dishes to preferences. The garlic bread, while tempting, was bypassed in favor of the addictive breadsticks – salty, crispy, and perfectly olive oil-washed.
Opting for a selection of appetizers is highly recommended to sample the breadth of Carbone’s culinary offerings. The Caesar salad, prepared tableside on a classic cart, is a highlight. Crisp romaine lettuce, a perfectly balanced dressing, and expertly made croutons elevate this staple dish.
Grilled langoustines with herb sauce are another standout appetizer, showcasing fresh seafood and elegant presentation.
The grilled asparagus wrapped in prosciutto, topped with a poached egg and shaved Parmesan, is a testament to classic Italian flavors, executed flawlessly.
For those seeking bolder flavors, the spicy octopus is a must-try. Perfectly cooked and buttery, the octopus is enhanced by a vibrant combination of spice, tomato, and herbs.
Moving to the main courses, the spicy vodka rigatoni is a standout pasta dish. The sauce, perfectly balanced with spice and richness, coats the rigatoni without being overwhelming. The melted cheese sprinkled on top adds a final touch of indulgence.
The meatballs, available as a side, are highly recommended. A blend of meats creates a light yet dense texture, complemented by a spicy tomato sauce that begs to be soaked up with bread.
Main course options range from simple and elegant, like the bass served over a green sauce, to more robust dishes.
The cherry pepper ribs are a visual and culinary delight, boasting a beautiful presentation and fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
While the veal parmesan is often lauded, the veal marsala offers a different yet equally compelling experience. Cooked on the bone, the veal chop is juicy and flavorful, enhanced by mushrooms and a rich wine sauce, served over roasted oyster mushrooms. Portion sizes are generous, suggesting that sharing main courses might be a good strategy.
An unexpected yet intriguing option is the Chinese chicken, proving to be a delicious and unique offering within the Italian menu.
Side dishes like the thinly sliced roasted potatoes, served in a charming Le Creuset pan, are equally thoughtfully prepared.
The crispy broccoli rabe offers a refreshing alternative to the standard sautéed version, presented as an Italian take on tempura.
The dessert cart is a highlight, featuring a curated selection of four options, alongside gelatos. The choices, including tiramisu, lemon cheesecake, chocolate mousse cake, and carrot cake, are each a modern interpretation of classic desserts.
The fried crisps, dusted with confectioners sugar, offer a light and sweet accompaniment to dessert.
The chocolate cake, with layers of mousse and moist chocolate cake, is a decadent choice for chocolate lovers.
The banana split stands out as a classic done exceptionally well. Featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry gelato with a split banana, each ice cream flavor is enhanced by a complementary sauce, topped with crunchy nuts.
Carbone on Thompson Street is undeniably a splurge, but the experience justifies the price for a special occasion or a memorable night out. The clientele is diverse, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Carbone has successfully created a space that feels both nostalgic and relevant, honoring Italian-American culinary traditions while elevating them for the modern diner. From the ambiance to the service to the expertly prepared food, Carbone delivers a truly exceptional dining experience in Greenwich Village, solidifying its place as a must-visit restaurant in NYC.
