Carbone’s menu prices reflect the restaurant’s reputation for high-end Italian dining in New York City. If you’re looking for the latest Carbone NYC menu prices, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about what you’ll spend at this iconic Italian-American spot in Greenwich Village.
Carbone is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The red-sauce joint vibe meets Michelin-level service. But that experience comes with a price tag. Let’s get straight into the costs, the dishes, and how to plan your visit without surprises.
Carbone Nyc Menu Prices: An Overview
The menu at Carbone is divided into appetizers, pastas, main courses, sides, and desserts. Prices are high, but so is the quality and the atmosphere. Expect to spend around $100 to $150 per person for a full dinner with drinks and tip.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the current menu items and their prices. Keep in mind that prices can change seasonally or due to ingredient costs. Always check the restaurant’s official menu or call ahead for the most current numbers.
Appetizers And Antipasti
Start your meal with classic Italian starters. These dishes are generous and meant for sharing. Here are the popular options and their typical costs:
- Caesar Salad – $24
- Burrata with Prosciutto – $32
- Carpaccio Piemontese – $28
- Grilled Octopus – $36
- Meatball (one large) – $18
- Shrimp Scampi – $38
- Clams Oreganata – $26
Most appetizers serve two people. If you’re dining alone, you might want to skip this course or order just one dish. The portions are not small, but the prices add up fast.
Pasta Dishes
Pasta is the heart of Carbone’s menu. Each dish is made fresh daily. The famous Spicy Rigatoni Vodka is a must-try. Here are the pasta options and their prices:
- Spicy Rigatoni Vodka – $34
- Lobster Ravioli – $48
- Pappardelle Bolognese – $36
- Linguini with Clams – $38
- Gnocchi with Truffle – $42
- Fettuccine Alfredo – $32
- Bucatini Amatriciana – $34
These are full-sized portions. You can share a pasta dish as a course, but many people order one for themselves. The Spicy Rigatoni is the most popular item on the menu. It’s rich, creamy, and has a kick.
Main Courses (Secondi)
Main courses at Carbone are hearty and protein-focused. They come with a side of vegetables or potatoes. Expect to pay premium prices for these dishes:
- Chicken Parmigiana – $48
- Veal Milanese – $56
- Steak Diane (for two) – $98
- Lobster Fra Diavolo – $68
- Branzino (whole) – $52
- Osso Buco – $64
- Filet Mignon – $72
The Steak Diane is prepared tableside, which adds to the show. It’s a splurge, but worth it for a special occasion. The Chicken Parmigiana is a classic, and it’s huge. You can easily share it.
Sides And Vegetables
Sides are ordered separately. They are not included with main courses. Here are the options:
- Broccoli Rabe – $16
- Sautéed Spinach – $14
- Roasted Potatoes – $14
- Mushrooms – $18
- French Fries – $12
One side is enough for two people. The portions are generous. Don’t over-order; the main dishes are already filling.
Desserts
Desserts at Carbone are old-school Italian. They are rich and sweet. Here are the prices:
- Tiramisu – $18
- Lemon Sorbet – $12
- Chocolate Mousse – $16
- Cheesecake – $16
- Affogato – $14
The Tiramisu is a standout. It’s creamy and not too sweet. The Affogato is a simple but perfect ending with espresso over vanilla ice cream.
Drinks And Beverages
Carbone has a full bar. Cocktails, wine, and beer are all available. Drink prices are high, reflecting the upscale setting.
Cocktails
- Negroni – $22
- Old Fashioned – $24
- Martini – $22
- Spritz – $18
- Specialty Cocktails – $26–$30
The bartenders are skilled. The cocktails are strong and well-balanced. If you want to save money, stick to wine or beer.
Wine List
Wine by the glass starts at $18. Bottles range from $60 to over $500. The list is mostly Italian, with some French and American options. A decent bottle will cost around $80–$120.
Beer And Non-Alcoholic
- Italian Beer (Peroni) – $10
- Domestic Beer – $8
- Soft Drinks – $6
- Espresso – $6
- Tea – $5
Non-alcoholic options are limited. Stick to espresso or a soda if you’re not drinking.
How To Save Money At Carbone
Carbone is expensive, but you can manage the cost. Here are some tips:
- Go for lunch. Lunch prices are slightly lower. The menu is similar, but portions might be smaller. Lunch is also less crowded.
- Share dishes. Order two appetizers and one pasta for two people. Then share a main course. This keeps the bill down.
- Skip the drinks. Alcohol adds a lot to the bill. Stick to water or one glass of wine.
- Order the Spicy Rigatoni. It’s the most affordable pasta and the best. You don’t need a main course if you get this.
- No dessert. Desserts are nice but not necessary. Save room and money.
- Book a reservation. Walk-ins might feel pressured to order more. Reservations give you time to decide.
Using these tips, you can eat at Carbone for around $80 per person. That’s still a lot, but it’s better than $150.
Carbone’s Famous Dishes And What They Cost
Some dishes are legendary. Here’s what you need to try and what they cost:
Spicy Rigatoni Vodka
This is the dish that put Carbone on the map. It’s a simple pasta with a creamy tomato sauce and a spicy finish. Price: $34. Many people say it’s the best pasta in NYC. It’s a must-order.
Chicken Parmigiana
This is a massive portion. The chicken is breaded and fried, then topped with mozzarella and tomato sauce. Price: $48. It comes with a side of spaghetti. You can easily share it.
Steak Diane
Prepared tableside, this is a showstopper. The steak is cooked medium-rare and flambéed with brandy. Price: $98 for two. It includes mushrooms and a rich sauce. Perfect for a date.
Lobster Ravioli
These are large ravioli filled with lobster meat. The sauce is a light cream with herbs. Price: $48. It’s rich and decadent. Order it as a main course.
Tiramisu
The classic Italian dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. Price: $18. It’s light and not too sweet. A great way to end the meal.
Carbone Nyc Menu Prices For Special Occasions
Carbone is a popular spot for birthdays, anniversaries, and celebrations. The restaurant offers special menus for groups. Here’s what you can expect:
Private Dining
Carbone has private rooms for parties. The minimum spend is high. For a group of 10, expect to spend at least $1,500. That’s $150 per person before drinks. The menu is pre-set and includes multiple courses.
Holiday Menus
During holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Carbone offers special prix-fixe menus. These cost around $200 per person. They include appetizers, pasta, main course, dessert, and a glass of champagne.
Birthday Celebrations
If you mention it’s your birthday, the staff might bring a small dessert. But don’t expect a free meal. The restaurant is not known for comps. Plan to pay full price.
Reservations And How To Get In
Carbone is hard to book. Reservations open 30 days in advance. They fill up within minutes. Here’s how to get a table:
- Book online. Use Resy or the restaurant’s website. Be ready at 10 AM exactly.
- Set alerts. Use apps like Resy Notify to get notified if a table opens up.
- Call the restaurant. Sometimes they have cancellations. Call a few days before.
- Walk in. Go early, like 5 PM. The bar area might have seats. You can eat there.
- Try a weekday. Mondays and Tuesdays are easier to book than weekends.
If you can’t get a reservation, try the bar. The bar menu is limited, but you can still order the Spicy Rigatoni. It’s a good backup plan.
Carbone Nyc Menu Prices Compared To Other Italian Restaurants
How does Carbone compare to other high-end Italian spots in NYC? Here’s a quick comparison:
- Carbone – $100–$150 per person. Classic red-sauce vibe. Famous for Spicy Rigatoni.
- Don Angie – $80–$120 per person. Modern Italian. Known for lasagna.
- L’Artusi – $90–$130 per person. Trendy. Great pasta and wine list.
- Rosemary’s – $60–$90 per person. More casual. Farm-to-table Italian.
- I Sodi – $80–$110 per person. Cozy. Excellent pasta dishes.
Carbone is on the higher end. But the experience is unique. The service, the decor, and the food make it worth the price for many people.
What To Expect When You Dine At Carbone
Carbone is not a quiet, romantic restaurant. It’s loud, lively, and fun. The staff wears white jackets. The tables are close together. You’ll feel like you’re in a 1950s mob movie.
The service is attentive but not intrusive. They will refill your water and bread constantly. The bread basket is free and refillable. It’s a nice touch.
The dress code is smart casual. No shorts or flip-flops. A collared shirt and nice jeans are fine. Many people dress up for the occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carbone Nyc Menu Prices
Here are common questions people have about Carbone’s costs and menu:
Is Carbone NYC Expensive?
Yes, Carbone is expensive. Expect to spend $100–$150 per person for a full meal with drinks. It’s a high-end restaurant with premium prices.
What Is The Cheapest Item On Carbone’s Menu?
The cheapest item is the French Fries at $12. But for a real meal, the Spicy Rigatoni Vodka at $34 is the most affordable main dish.
Does Carbone Have A Dress Code?
Yes, the dress code is smart casual. No athletic wear, shorts, or flip-flops. Men should wear collared shirts and nice shoes.
Can I Eat At Carbone Without A Reservation?
Yes, you can try the bar area. Walk-ins are accepted for bar seats. The menu is limited, but you can still get pasta and drinks.
How Much Is The Tasting Menu At Carbone?
Carbone does not have a standard tasting menu. They offer prix-fixe menus for holidays and private events. These cost around $200 per person.
Final Thoughts On Carbone Nyc Menu Prices
Carbone is a splurge. The prices are high, but the food and atmosphere are top-notch. If you plan ahead and share dishes, you can keep costs down. The Spicy Rigatoni is a must-try, and the Chicken Parmigiana is a classic.
Book your reservation early. Go with friends to share. And don’t forget to save room for tiramisu. Carbone is an experience you’ll remember, even if your wallet feels lighter.
Remember, prices can change. Always confirm with the restaurant before you go. But with this guide, you have a solid idea of what to expect. Enjoy your meal at Carbone!