Fanelli Café

94 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, United States
$$$ Traditional American restaurant
(1470 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Located at 94 Prince St in the heart of Soho, Fanelli Café stands as a quintessential example of a traditional American restaurant that beautifully marries history with hearty fare. With its charming decor and storied past as a speakeasy during Prohibition, stepping into Fanelli's feels like a delightful journey through time, while also offering the vibrant energy of modern-day New York City.

The menu is a treasure trove of classic American dishes that evoke nostalgia while delivering on taste. Start your meal with jumbo shrimp cocktails ($16) that boast freshness, or indulge in the comfort of meatballs served in marinara ($14). For those who crave something crispy and spicy, the baked buffalo wings with tangy blue cheese ($12) are a must-try. With tempting options like fried calamari ($14) and potato skins ($12), the appetizer section sets the tone for a delectable meal.

As you dive into the entrees, the Rascal Burger ($10) offers a satisfying bite with American cheese that melts just right. The spaghetti and meatballs ($20) encapsulates the essence of comfort food, while the steak frites made from a generous 16 oz prime NY strip ($38) promises a hearty and gratifying experience. Vegetarians can rejoice too with options like the veg burger with fries ($18) and fettuccine with pesto ($18). Don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing drink as you soak in the ambiance!

The atmosphere at Fanelli Café is relaxed yet vibrant, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal, a quick bite after shopping, or even a lively gathering with friends. The outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy the lovely New York weather, as noted by customers who appreciate the charming vibe, albeit with mixed experiences on service attentiveness. Regulars like Zoe Barracano affirm that the café possesses a unique charm, combined with a dedicated staff that creates a welcoming environment. However, some patrons like Priscilla did find some lapses in service during their visit, reminding us that while the food is a highlight, attentive service can enhance the experience.

Customer reviews echo a consistency in the café’s identity as a cherished local gem, loved for its authentic feel and classic offerings. Michèle Saint Michel perfectly captures the café’s spirit when she refers to it as an “institution” where “the conversation flowed easy,” emphasizing the timeless quality of Fanelli's atmosphere.

So, whether you're in the mood for a comforting meal or just want to soak in the rich history of this idyllic café, Fanelli Café offers a slice of the New York experience that resonates with both locals and newcomers alike. Prepare your tastebuds for a delightful adventure through flavors as you savor each bite in this iconic dining destination!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Offers delivery
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Friday

11:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

1470 Reviews
Priscilla

08 Sep 2025

We walked into this café on a beautiful sunny day and chose to sit outside to enjoy the weather. The food was delicious—simple yet full of flavor. The breakfast sandwich was particularly satisfying and hit all the right notes. However, the service was not very attentive. Our waitress forgot two items from our order and rarely checked in on us. We also ordered a drink that never arrived, even though we received our food first. While the food was great, the service could use some improvement to match the quality of the dishes.

Augustin Mallon

31 Aug 2025

Top place! A wonderful local feel to Soho. Mix & mingle with neighbours, watch the US Open, savour some quick food. Marvellous service! Top notch New York experience. Thanks!!

Zoe Barracano

16 Jul 2025

I love Fanellis and have been going here since I was a kid. I love the food, the old world charm and the staff are all great.

Rovik Robert

10 Jul 2025

Much more of a pub vibe here with a focus on simple no nonsense drinks. Food is basically bar grub and they’re not bad but nothing to shout about as well. You’re here for the institutional nature of the spot.

Michèle Saint Michel

07 Jul 2025

Ordered fries and martinis—what I like to call a Happy Meal. Salt and brine, crisp and clean. It’s the kind of combo that steadies shaky souls and shortens the night. Fanelli’s is a rare New York spot that actually earns the word institution, operating as a speakeasy during Prohibition. The conversation flowed easy, and the service staff treated us like we’d been coming since 1847. Time flits by faster inside, softened by rose light, slowed by gin. No one rushed us. We weren’t just winding down; we were softening into a new way of being. Worth the bustle to find a table

Gabrielle B

29 Jun 2025

Not cheap, but cheerful. This New York bar/ restaurant is a classic hit but also can be a tourist trap. Good for pre dinner drinks for people watching in Soho. Got the chicken strips and they were actually pretty good, just pricy. I recommend but know what you’re getting into when you sit down at this NYC staple.

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