Ralphie

I plan on taking a party of 7 (includes 2 kids) to Carmine's soon. I've been to the Upper West Side location, so I'm familiar with the restaurant. My question is about the Times Square location. How close to the hubbub of Times Square is Carmine's?

I know that often it's impossible to walk on the sidewalk it's so crowded in that area, and I'd rather avoid that kind of crowd if possible, because of the kids primarily. However, it would be within walking distance from our hotel.

I'd love to hear your opinions about whether the near-Times-Square location is surrounded by the throngs of people that I picture in the heart of Times Square.

doug_stallings

Carmine's is right in the thick of the hubbub of Times Square, which is a big reason I don't like this location. But if you are staying here anyway, I can't imagine why you wouldn't want to eat there. Just make reservations as far in advance as they will allow. The lines can be huge.

mclaurie

That Carmine's is on 44th at Broadway. The crush you're thinking of is ON Broadway b/w 42-46 or so. Where are you staying?

Ralphie

Thanks for the feedback Doug. I'm not staying in times square, but a couple blocks to the north near Lexington Avenue, which is more Midtown East I guess. Walkable to Times Square, but since it's in the crowded part as I'd feared, I'll agree with Doug and we'll all jump on the Subway and go to the Upper West Side location. If we can get a reservation.

Mclaurie thanks for spelling that out, thats the kind of location info I was looking for...but that sounds a little too close to the craziness for me. Unless it quiets down once one turns the corner on 44th?

NeoPatrick

There is no problem walking on 44th (except just before the shows along there start and the sidewalks are full of the people (Xanadu is almost next door). But the issue is crossing Broadway to get there.

Frankly I think you're making a big issue out of nothing. Go down Lexington or another street to 44th and then go west. You can certainly cross Broadway at 44th without getting completely mobbed. Just don't try to walk down Broadway to get to 44th.

What time are you going? It's madness at Carmine's until 8 when it really clears out a lot as the theatre crowd heads off to their shows.

Ralphie

Guys, thanks for the advice. We ended up not even going there at all: the group opted for Indian cuisine instead (go figure!)

But I will take this advice in mind the next time I go to NYC which will be in a few months.