Cafe Fiorello — Restaurant in New York

Those familiar with my reviews know they are typically friendly and positive, but occasionally, it’s necessary to leave an honest review that reflects the actual service received.

From the moment we walked in to the moment we left, our experience was terrible. As visitors from out of town, this was our first dinner in NYC, and we were really looking forward to it after a long day of walking and exploring. Unfortunately, it was a major disappointment.

To begin, we were seated at the smallest table in the restaurant, which felt cramped and uncomfortable. Despite the restaurant not being overly busy, our waiter took an unreasonably long time to even acknowledge us. When he finally arrived, we asked for water, explaining that we were parched after walking all day, but his response was shockingly dismissive—he shrugged and rolled his eyes at our request.

We decided to try the antipasto, which came highly recommended by the table next to us, but the food took forever to arrive. When it finally did, it was lukewarm at best and absolutely not worth the $22 per dish. To make matters worse, the waiter spilled water on my phone and didn’t even bother to apologize or clean up the mess.

Overall, this was an incredibly disappointing experience. We came expecting great New York food and hospitality, but we got neither. I wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone, especially if you’re looking for good service and quality dining.

Please note that this review was from 7 years ago but adjusted slightly as we will never forget...

I feel bad sharing this, but on two occasions now we have visited when the outdoor seating area was largely empty (50% empty the first time, 90% empty yesterday). Cognizant that this is a dining establishment, we asked if it is possible to just order drinks (we have a stroller, making it difficult to take a seat at the bar). Both times, the manager grudgingly sat us. Yesterday, he asked how long we thought we would be and we said we would order one drink each and leave. After our first drink, the seating area remained 90% empty and we ordered another round. We received the bill and after our tip it was more than $80 to the restaurant and wait staff in a 30-minute period. As we were about to finish our second round, the manager sat the table next to us and essentially told us it was time to go. He was also very rude to another couple with a child doing the same thing that we were.

I would certainly understand if the restaurant was busy - after all, as local residents, we are appreciative of the dining scene and want these restaurants to succeed. Given that the markup on alcohol is much greater than that of food, that we did not order cheap drinks, and that we left a more than 20% tip, it was pretty alarming how disrespectful the management was. Fortunately, we have a large network of close friends who are professionals and who enjoy spending money at local establishments - we will be sure to tell them to avoid this place and to take their business elsewhere (The Smith and PJ Clarke's are...

Wonderful place that will leave you feeling well-fed and happy. I came here last night with my husband after the theater, and we had a very happy experience. The front-desk staff are kind and respectful, and they gave us a really nice table. The servers are professional and charming, and the food is excellent (we had pizza and a selection of the amazing veg appetizers). I wanted to note that what sets Cafe Fiorello apart is that they are very welcoming and it is an age-inclusive place; last night, there were both young crowds at the bar and older couples enjoying meals at their tables, and there was a bouyant party-like festive feeling and buzz throughout the restaurant. You are not judged by your looks or what you are wearing -- it is obvious that everyone is treated like a well-loved family member. This is very different from how I have been treated at other high-end NYC restaurants, where typically we have been (because of our age, mid-50's) shunted to rear tables. I want to thank the Cafe Fiorello team for all their kindness and for providing us a couple of very contented hours where my husband and I could forget the terrible stress and unhappiness we have gone through the last 3 years on the homefront. Kudos to the team for creating such an inclusive sanctuary of epicurean delight in the heart...