On September 16th, Carmine’s celebrated its 35th anniversary with a star studded, old school New York party that captured everything people love about the iconic Italian institution.
I’m always searching for magic. That perfectly elevated, carefully curated, mesmerizing mix of sensations that jolts you into the present moment. I found it at Carmine’s 35th anniversary party. Singing along to Mario Cantone’s rendition of “I Love You Baby”, a forkful of eggplant parm in my mouth and a glass of Trebbiano in my hand, I felt the magic take over.
Since opening its first location on the Upper West Side in 1990, Carmine’s has proven it knows how to throw a damn good party. Guests arrived dressed to the nines for the “Sinatra Swagger” theme, which infused the music, decor, and atmosphere.
The incomparable Mario Cantone hosted, singing Sinatra classics alongside his band. Comedically large, family style, Southern Italian inspired dishes were served between surprise performances and loud toasts. Servers glided through the packed room with ease and humor, nudging everyone to eat more than they thought humanly possible.
Every corner offered a surprise: an ice sculpture stacked with desserts, antipasto platters the size of tables, a cigar-rolling station manned by men in fedoras (I left with a cigar I’ll never smoke but will treasure forever), and even a “wine window”. There was music, dancing, spinning napkins, and celebrity cameos: Michelle Buteau, Sophie Skelton, Michael Kelly, and Marvin Washington among them.
The restaurant’s leadership team- CEO Jeffrey Bank of Alicart Restaurant Group, President Alexis Blair, and Chef Glenn Rolnick, continue to deliver excellent food, warm hospitality, and family spirit.
If you’d like a taste of that magic, Carmine’s is offering anniversary specials through September 30th.