Fanelli Cafe Reviews

The man at the entrance is very friendly , we waited 15 minutes and were seated inside. There's not a lot of light so our mobile phone flashlight had to help to be able to order. Burger okay , french fries nice and crispy , tomato soup very simple. With acouple of beers to go with that we were content , friendly and quick service by young waitress. Shady atmosphere inside which makes it nice and cosy.

The best Guinness hands down in New York , fantastic Burger and Chicken salad a must as well . Even though its in soho , which can be supper busy . This place a retained its friendly regular like atmosphere , ideal when taking time out from busy Broadway . Staff are amazing , and most have worked there for years , which is credit to the place

Spent the weekend in Soho. Googled restaurants with high ratings. Asked hotel manager if she'd ever been and she said she would recommend it. Arrived and only waited 5 minutes (Saturday nite before Christmas). Waitress was great, food was good. Would recommend.

one of the bests burgers in nyc. and dont care much about fries, but theirs are incredible. just loved it

My partner and I came here for dinner. We didn't have a reservation (no issues), our beer was served fresh and cold and our food was served fresh and hot. I had the Maryland crab cakes which were tasty and delicious. I can't remember what my better half had, but he really enjoyed it also. The meals were of a good size and we didn't have room for dessert. Our server was lovely also. Attentive without being overbearing and quick to update us on any menu variations. Will definitely come here again.

Take a seat at the bar and have a glass of wine and the meatballs, with extra bread. Watch the Prince Street world go by and have a chat with whomever is seated next to you. Just great.

We had a walkabout on our wat to meet a family member for lunch, it was freezing cold and we were in need of a hot drink, this place looked great from the outside and was even better on the inside, very friendly staff who found us a table to enjoy a much needed hot drink, was offered all sorts of goodies to eat but only needed a warm drink, great interior with lots of old boxing memorabilia, well worth the visit.

I stopped here for lunch while wandering about. I was seated quickly and just ordered a grilled cheese sandwich with American cheese, fries and a Coke. When the food finally arrived, I took one bite of the sandwich and sank my teeth into over a 1/2" of soft cheese which was really gross. Each bite was a mouthful of cheese. The bread was just bread, nothing special or different like some restaurants serve. The fries were just your aveage fries, again, nothing special. When I finished my Coke, the glass was over 3/4 filled with ice cubes, so had little to drink. I guess I looked like a tourist with a camera, eating alone. This was the worst food I had during my 6-day stay in NY. I don't know what makes this place special, as my meal surely wasn't. I would never return or recommend eating here. I waited a long time for my check and I told the server my glass was filled with ice cubes. Her response was "OK" and she turned and left, never to return.

If you're hankering for a good burger, then give this place a shot. I sat at the bar and wasn't drinking, but just eating. The service was somewhat in attentive but I think it's because I wasn't drinking at the bar. The bison burger was really tasty. It was nicely seasoned and perfectly cooked. I would say it was somewhere between .25 and .50lb.

We were starving and just got into the city and walked right in without any expectations. The waitress/bartender was fantastically friendly and fun! We sat at the bar and it seemed that she knew everyone there and everyone knew each other..my kind of low key place. We ordered a yummy chicken tarragon club sandwich and a salad. Everything was delicious. So happy we stumbled across this corner gem and didn't eat at one of the touristy,pricey places in Soho.

The food was good, the decoration of the restaurant is nice. It gets busy and loud during lunch time, but I liked it there!

Must have been to Fanelli's 40 times...maybe 50...who knows, I lives 4 blocks down. This old school haunt still keeps true to its origins. It is loud and a lot of fun. People watching heaven: models/locals/ whatevers galore! Burgers are great and a Soho steal, also in my top 3 , hand cut shoe string fries anyone? Bueller? Mary steals my heart with every time i set foot there with her bubbly character, maybe I should marry her. Boom. Date of visit: November 2021

It is a cafe located in Soho, NY. Lots of people waiting, but you can quickly get in. Typical NY dishes. Good price

what a place, sat and drank with the locals..had a great time. Jon behind the bar is a star and big bob is a legend too. have the burger and a bloody mary, enjoy the old pub for what it is and suck up the atmosphere cant believe i have passed this place on previous trips! Gutted

This local eatery surprised me! I had a basic open faced tuna sandwich with cheddar cheese and it was DELISH! It might be seen as a whole in the wall, but it's a treasure in the big city where so many places are commercial and rely on high prices and social hype. This place is very affordable, the bar is a place where a woman can go and sit alone and eat without it feeling weird or bothered. I'm definitely going back!

Looks like a dive but isn't...great burgers lots of locals who think they are grandfathered in and many are...grandfathers. Ultimately a very cool spot if you can get a seat.

Excellent for a drink in the bar.... this place is across the street of the Mercer Hotel. Old school and dark bar. Traditional bar fare, and great ales A must if you're in the neighbourhood.

Fresh homemade fish and chips! Burgers also great. Nice atmosphere for a casual lunch while shopping the awesome soho shops.

We were in Soho by chance and a salesman in a shop recommended Fanelli for a late lunch. It was just what we were looking for. The service was friendly and fast, the food was down-to-earth and tasty and not over priced. A great place to have a quick satisfying meal.

This is exactly what a NY neighborhood bar should be. A great history to lean on. We sat at the bar, which I recommend as you will engage in conversation with the fabulous Mary or on other days the equally good Colin. Also, you will meet plenty of locals who are some great characters. Beer good as is the food. Nothing complicated here.

We only had drinks and pastry here, but everything was delicious, and the service was wonderful. Great place to stop and watch people on the street walking by.

Having popped in on a lunchtime, we enquired what was on the menu for Christmas evening, Turkey was available ,so we arrived about 8:30 and thoroughly enjoyed our New York Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings. Well done Fanelli Cafe you were very good and we all had a very nice meal on a very special day on our holiday.

For me this bar is the epitome of New York. It’s the bar I always go on arrival and when I leave. Oh and several times in between. First and foremost I’ve met some crazy, interesting, funny people sat at the bar. On this occasion we met a great guy called Jimmy from Brooklyn. Everyone’s got a story to tell. The staff are great. They do it their way for sure though. Really good people who love having fun. They can be formidable too. I love it there. Beer great. Food decent.

By coincidence we found this little restaurant, we had a bison burger with french fries and fish and chips. The fish and chips were very good, tender fish with good sauce. Sadly the bison burger was not as good, the meat was too dry, the rest was good. Staff was very friendly and fast, saw that we were craving for some cool water, seconds later it was on the table. Recommendation for some typical american style lunch or dinner.

I love this joint. such a great place to meet friends for lunch - the food is ok, but THE VIBE IS BRILLIANT! I go here each time I'm in New York, and the first time was when Prince was on at half-time at the Superbowl - they had the game on mute until Prince, then turned him right up. Then mute straight after. Fell in love with it then, filmed in it for a BBC show, and found out it was art critic Robert Hughes favourite bar. Do him proud there....

A great little "cafe"/Pub in the heart of downtown New York. Staff are very welcoming, the food is lovely, and they don't object at all to you sharing. Well worth a visit to break up the shopping!

Authentic cafe and restaurant Nice atmosphere and nice service Some renovation is possible It is quite messy and not hygienic Toilets are in urgent need of renovation Definitely don't miss it, we are fans

We stopped here after an afternoon of shopping in SoHo. It's an excellent neighborhood pub. Chatted with folks who love in the area. I'll be back.

Walking in Soho we found Fanelli's for a drink. Really great interior and warm athmosphere. A nice experience.

one of my best place in NYC, nice food, great atmosfere, interesting people around you. Lovely memories

We visited Fanelli's after our city tour on our city guide's advice. It is a nice place with a vintage feel, though when we were there it is was bit over-crowded. Our burgers were delicious and the service quick and friendly.

Must stop for a drink when one is shopping or dinning in SOHO. Great history. Can get very crowed, and not a lot of space at the bar.

Nice place. Had an average tuna salad sandwich. Good fries and nice service.Very good location. Also they have Brooklyn lager which is a pleasure. 😊

had the meat loaf and beer the other night, was very nice. Place was quite busy for monday, seemed like mostly locals

NYC was very cold on Saturday March 4. I had to stop somewhere for a coffee to keep warm. The cafe was packed but a nice receptionist found me a spot near the cafe bar area at the back where they made coffees. I only ordered a cappuccino and no food. It was still all smiles and giggles. Kudos to the super friendly people. What more can you get for a few bucks. I will be back.

Our trek to SoHo was more comfortable after a stop at the quaint Fanelli's Cafe. Predictable bar food with a few fun surprises - like the Grilled Chicken Club with Gouda.

I like the place. Irish bartender is on top of her game. Dogfish 120 is a nice throwback beer. No complaints. Wouldn’t mind coming back to try their burger.

Fanelli's has been at the same location since 1847 and is a great place for a light meal and beer or just a place to hang out and enjoy the tile floor, tin ceiling, and everything else that says this is a legitimate historic setting. The wait staff is excellent -- and seems to anticipate your needs. The food is better than you might expect to find. Prices are quite reasonable. And no one condemns the customer who orders iced tea! Go to relax and enjoy the making of a memory.

Sit at the bar and chat with the staff. Great place with old fixtures... who needs a posh modern bar.. when you have these to pop into.. way more fun

After a day of sightseeing we sought out Fanelli’s after reading about it before we arrived in NYC. From the moment we arrived into the buzzing restaurant we could feel the great vibe. We were seated by a lovely girl and took in the vibe. While the tables were a little close together this added to the atmosphere. We both ordered potato skins to start. They were great and quiet large portion size too. Then my son had meatballs and spaghetti which was amazing. I had a great steak which was big with lovely homemade chips. A few glasses of wine and a beer complimented our food. This is a hidden gem and a must visit. Great food great atmosphere and fantastic vibe.

The wait staff work as fast as they can. Place is understaffed. Sitting here still waiting for food. Its been at least 35 min.

I hesitate to even submit this review fearing that others will discover this mainstay in Soho. I've been going since I was in school in Connecticut 30 years ago. Honest drinks and food. I always sit at the bar for reliable and unpretentious service. Good food and decent prices, a holdout against the preciousness that one finds all-too-common these days in Soho.

This restaurant is a must for all NYC visitors. The atmosphere is nothing quiet and nothing romantic but just as you would imagine New York in the old years, it's small, noisy, very busy but this is exactly what makes it so special. The burgers are great!

When we were in New York in the deep freeze in February, we thought we would walk down to Chinatown to see the festivities for the Chinese New Year. When we got to Fanelli Cafe we were freezing and decided to stop in for a beer and a sandwich. The place was hopping. We had to wait for about 10 minutes while we warmed up. We were seated near the front and could see all the action. The waitress recommended the salmon sandwich which we shared. It was excellent as were the accompanying fries.

Interesting interior, gorgeous front door, atmosphere and style. Meals not that much. For such price you can find much better food. My medium-well steak was with nearly coal cover.

Cozy was the first thing I said coming in this place. We sat in the front across from the most beautiful bar with history coming alive in front of you. The staff is extremely accommodating and overwhelmingly pleasant! That would have been it for us, and quite frankly we would have enjoyed ourselves on the ambiance alone, however, when the food came we catapulted to Wow! Great burger, bacon is like eating a brisket in Lockhart, TX and fries were awesome. Found out this is the second oldest restaurant in the city, no wonder it's been around so long, anything this good and friendly should be!

The salmon sandwich is fantabulous. Bridget--the barkeep and burger-slinger --and local personality is funky-but-chic. Fanellis attracts a great mix of lock characters and touron.

Fanelli's Café is your typical rustic Bar/Restaurant that has the appearance and draw that'll make you commit to a quick pop in. Whether your having Brunch/Lunch or Spirits. Fanelli's delivers. We had the Fish and Chips and a Chicken Club, 2 Menu favs, that hit the mark. Better than good. There's plenty of other choices, so indulge and enjoy. Fanelli's is perfect for a Shop&Stop over, whilst your enjoying your afternoon. Thanks Chef Edwin Padilla Good Food...Good Vibes

We stopped in here and had a relaxing, good lunch. The burger and the french toast ($14.50) were both good. The service was friendly, but busy. It has a low key atmosphere.

I've been in SOHO on and off for the past month. I had to go about a mile to find a pub with good food till now. To top if off, the food is reasonable prices.

We were shopping in Soho and wanted somewhere to eat we got there quite early and got seated straight away. The menu is quite extensive and although the place is busy the staff they have seem to have it all under control. I had a bit of a wobbly chair and they took ages to bring our drinks to start but other than that the food was very good, the burger, and the salads and the fries with their skins on were all very good. I certainly would go back there if I was in New York its a little gem.

Take a break from shopping in SoHo, sit at the bar and just hang out. Found this by accident and so glad we did. Amazingly good Bloody Mary. The people next to us had more than one Mimosa (so they are good too). Beers on tap and plenty of wine. It's been here since the 1800's and stood the test of time. Old photos and historical records on the walls, plenty of character. Food looked great as it came out although we did not eat here. Barman very chatty and a good banter across, and up the bar. Glad we came across it and definately one to visit again.

Great sense of host of the garment district! Loud and rowdy but enjoyable with atmosphere! Drop in for a drink and the food looked good!

My son and wife visited Fanelli’s recently for dinner. On arrival we seated seated and greeted by a lovely lady and so friendly. Our server was brilliant and so helpful. We order potato skins to start which were scrumptious. To follow steak frites for my son and me and pasta for my wife again all delicious. We had a beer and a nice bottle of Sauvignon blanc followed by tiramisu. I love this place great food great staff and always buzzing

In Fanelli Cafe everyone find its own preferred dish. The diversify and the quality of the dishes is large, and the quality of each of them is equally good. We sat there, group of six, with no common denominator, and we all finished pleased and happy. Very recommended,.

I love Fanellis - they could practically serve anything and I would still think it is awesome. Down to earth, loud, authentic NYC - doesn't get better than that. Food is okay,not horrible, but you go for the experience and just the fact that the building is one of the first in NYC. I'll be back again and again, for the laughs and the atmosphere.

Went here with my teenage daughter and a friend, and the menu, location and atmosphere was perfect. Don't let the name of the place mislead you - Its menu is diverse, and more closely resembles an Irish pub. I had the fish and chips (awesome) and my daughter had the pumpkin ravioli in alfredo sauce (outstanding). Total bill was very reasonable, would definitely come back!

Fanelli cafe is the perfect place to take a break from your shopping day. Very well located, old italian feeling, super friendly staff, food is OK nothing outstanding but ok. Check it out if you are in the neighborhood.

Service was friendly and welcoming. Loved the BLT’s and fries. Was just a simple midday stop while touring Soho. Decent beer list, charming neighborhood pub feel with good prices.

Unfortunately, nothing special... the spaghetti with meatballs was tasteless and the prices, in general, high. Sin.

We had a great meal here at a cute corner table. The restaurant was bustling but the wait staff got us in quickly and did a great job recommending dishes and with overall service. We would definitely return!

It's a bit dark and dim when you look in, and the lighting keeps it that way. Decor is peeling wallpaper, old photos, laminate tables and old wooden chairs but service is fast, efficient and friendly and food is plentiful and reasonably priced. The slightly dingy atmosphere was actually quite fun - but not the place for a romantic lunch.

Very mediocre experience. Great location. The amount of money we spent for our dinner did not align with the level of service we expected to receive. Our waitress was having a bad day and unfortunately she couldn’t hide it. She wasn’t being polite nor patient with our questions regarding the menu. I could tell by her facial expressions and her tone that she really disliked serving us. She was from Asian decent. Small body frame. In her 40s. I am in the Travel industry. I wish I could recommend this place to my VIPs and friends but I wouldn’t. The rest of the restaurant staff that interacted with us didn’t even crack a smile and were being dismissive. The food was very basic as well. You can find the same quality at your local Deli for 1/3 of the price. Maybe their staff need to take a Hospitality course. That’d be helpful. Never again..

We went to Fanelli as recommended by our tour guide Max. It is a small, reasonably priced placed to stop for a bite to eat. This place looks tiny from the outside but was bust inside. The staff are very helpful and the service was reasonably quick. I had the pesto pasta & my husband had the sausage and broccoli pizza. Was good food and would go back again

My spouse and I were in Soho for a early evening event, walked around trying to find a place for quick drink and went into Fanelli's. I guess we were immediately targeted by our dressy (but not trendy) outfits as fresh tourist meat for rudeness. After being ignored for 10 minutes by both bartenders, despite politely trying to get service, my husband had enough and whistled to get the bartender's attention. After a moment one bartender looked at him and asked him if he was the one who whistled. He said yes, and the bartender told him to "F*@& off" and walked away. Needless to say, we left. While we admit that whistling to get a bartender's attention is not the nicest approach, it was only done because we were being completely ignored. Reading other reviews here and elsewhere, it seems this is the bar's "schtick" with customers who are not regulars. They appear to pick out certain customers and either just be plain rude or refuse service (in one writeup, I read how one male bartender refused to serve any females before all the males were served - I suppose people are supposed to find that funny?). This routine seems to go down well with the regulars, but for someone making a one time visit, it wasn't cute or "edgy," it was just distasteful. We ended up going to Boqueiria a few blocks away, enjoyed some good wine and went back later for dinner. Fanelli's is apparently an acquired taste; we didn't acquire it, and won't bother with a second visit. If you enjoy this sort of atmosphere, have at it, but don't be surprised if you end up wasting your time and your good mood.

Worst experience ever! The server started to have an attitude with us and being super rude, just because we were asking for another table because ours was right next to the main door and the door was opened every 5 sec (not exaggerating here, and it was 12 F outside). He started to talk about us to his colleagues (right next to us so we could hear) and told we were ridiculous. He then started to talk about us to other people with racist comments. That was enough for us and we decided to leave! This is unacceptable, we had never been treated like this before!

We went in this restaurant based on its vintage appearance and sure enough the present café has been there since the 20's and there are old liquor licenses from a previous owner from the 1890's. Our waitress said that during Prohibition the place was a speakeasy. The front room is mostly a long bar with some tables. We proceeded to the next room which was all tables and much quieter. The menu was refreshingly simple and varied enough that I could find several good options. My burger was large, juicy and excellent. Waitress was very pleasant and helpful. The best part was meeting Joan, a genuine New Yorker, and a regular of the restaurant. Always makes me feel good to know that the locals eat at a restaurant also. Location is excellent if you are doing the Broadway in SoHo shopping thing being just a block west on Prince. I will definitely be going back here on my next visit to NYC.

If loud & noisy is not to your liking, don't eat here. One of the cheaper venues for drinks - $7 for a G&T elsewhere in Soho $13. Food is typical good pub grub. Staff are attentive and overall "cheap & cheeful" venue.

Visited after shopping trip to Soho , recommended by a friend , major disappointment ! Looked good , nice and busy but having ordered and consumed my first beer I tried to re order and was informed by the barmaid I was "being ignored " this lasted for 10 minuted where everyone roundabout was being served . Obvious to me by now my tip was not considered adequate and I was paying for it . As I picked up my bags to go suddenly I was offered service which I declined . It's one thing to have attitude but another for that attitude to be rude and embarrassing ! Old Fanelli will be turning In his grave ....

Found this place while just wandering. Great vibe, archetypical bartender named Bob. Large unmeasured drinks, tremendous ravioli and sausage. Lots of fun and very authentic.

We went to this bar for after dinner drinks and loved it. A good crowd and reasonably priced drinks. The staff were great even though the bar was busy. I would recommend you try it out if you are near Soho.

Dropped in to this very classic place to get something to eat and coffee. I had an omelette and Michelle had the French toast. It was more like brunch. The food was excellent and perfect. We were actually sitting at the bar and were entertained by the locals who were in for early drinks. A very pleasant surprise to find such a great place with loads of character.

We went years ago when the kids were little. I read a review that said they had good French toast and they were correct. Walked through the front bar to the back room where we were comfortable. We definitely weren't sitting in the bar with the kids as the vibe we got was walk to the back and so we did. We all enjoyed our food and service. I'll go back again.

While walking through SoHo, we found this place with good reviews and were sat immediately. The server was very nice and didn't grumble about us sharing dishes and not ordering one per person. That's always a good sign. We loved our food but for the price, thought the portions were small. I know we shared, but still thought it was smaller than typical. Perhaps the size is appropriate and the price is high. Whichever, be prepared to order accordingly. We had pasta which was perfectly cooked and sauced- not watery or mushy. The portobello sandwich we had was also very good. Everyone else in the place seemed happy with the food. I recommend it. It seems popular with tourists so you have to wait at times.

Quaint small restaurant with long bar as you come in. We both had the Bacon burger and chips which was lovely. Rowdy crowd in the corner in what is obviously a bar dedicated to boxing. Good vibe and Great beer. Had a fun lunch.

stopped here for breakfast and the lads were pleased as they were showing the World cup. The waitress asked if we wanted to watch football and put us in the back restaurant part. Now it was busy- but not too bad when we arrived, and there were 4 servers that I could see. Our order was taken quick enough and we settled back to watch the game with our coffees, In the meantime- other people started drifting in and the place soon filled. I did notice that those that were there before us were still waiting for their meals. After 35 minutes there was no sign of our meals arriving. The waitress did come over and apologise and then revealed there was only one chef in the kitchen!!! After another 10 minutes our meals of fish and chips, burger and two omelettes finally arrived. Breakfast has turned into lunch by this time so we ordered some beers! Still food was tasty and the staff seemed to be rushed off their feet- at least we got our coffees for free.!

My husband and I often go to this pub after shopping. It's quaint, the food is good with a nice variety and the atmosphere is vibrant. We walked in last Friday, the bar was packed bu we were waived back by the hostess and got a seat in the back.

This is an absolute gem of a place - a complete "stumble-upon" for me and my two adult kids who took me to NYC for my birthday (son turned 30 there as well!) We inaugurated our very first subway ride (N train from the 42nd Times Square Station to the Prince St. stop) with a 1 block walk south to 94 Prince at the corner of Mercer St. and noticed this place on the corner that served breakfast - walked in to a "Cheers"-like, sun-filled place and had a great two eggs with side salad breakfast. They serve hand-cut fries with the eggs - yum! This is a step back in time and SoHo NYC ambience. Friends and locals eating up at the vintage bar (place dated back to 1867 as being a liquor bar and was a speakeasy during the 1920 Prohibition era when it was owned by the Fanelli family who owned it for about 60 years) - everything in it is original so very cool ! Loved the local who brought in his dog who just lay down in the window box area to the right of the bar nearer to the door and waited for his master to finish his breakfast...so civilized. Place dates back to before 1867 as a grocery store and the trolley lines used to run right by the front as there is a metal platform as the front step approach. This is a delightful and authentic way to begin a day of shopping in the Prince-Spring-Canal Street area of SoHo shopping! Will go back every time for breakfast - no pretentiousness - just great food! Note we were there between 10:30 and 11 on a Wednesday which made it easy to get in - later in the day it can be crowded as the place is smaller - in the evening as it's "local bar" self this place is very busy - not a music venue per se, but a local hang for many. Don't miss it!

Decent bar food and good drinks. Prices were very reasonable. What you see is what you get. Would definitely recommend for a quick bite before going to a chain. This place is the real deal,

Fanelli gave me a really good supper and beer. We enjoyed a good meal, with excellent service, at a good price. I would go there again.

We were looking for somewhere for lunch when we came upon this cafe and I knew as soon as we walked in that it was going to be a great experience. The service was excellent and they went to a lot of trouble to seat us comfortably. We had main courses and every one was delicious, there was a great atmosphere also which meant we stayed longer than expected. I would recommend a visit here.

This was a shoot from the hip since interior didn’t say much about the food. But please take the nearest neighbor Mercer’s Kitchen 6 meters from the entrance, since Mercer’s kitchen is so much better... The Fanelli was not worth writing about... The cafe offers sandwich, burgers, pasta and Pizza but this was made without any passion...

I think that Fanelli's is great fun and something that has been taken out of last century New York that is so refreshing after all these minimalistic/cool/trendy places. I adore the decor so....yesterday and the sandwiches were good a the staff friendly and fun.

So we walked all the way to Galli's (an Italian place on Mercer) only to be rudely told 'no room at the inn!' So as we were walking back to the Subway we passed Fanelli's. From the outside it looks like a bar, but there is a dining that can be seen too. We gave it a try. We sat in the dining room (open seating) and were waited on right away.The service and ambiance is about par with a Friday's, but the food is so much better. I had a garden salad, which is actually a Greek salad. Great, just great. My wife had the Calamari, and the coating was made from corn flakes. The spicy marinara that was served with it was excellent, but cold. The calamari itself was well prepared, but tough. But then my wife had chicken noodle soup and I meat ravioli. Bot were amazing. There are easily the best meat ravioli I have ever had. Do yourself a favor, and go there!

Stopped off here with 2 teenage sons after shopping in Soho in need of a rest and a drink. Great atmosphere friendly hip staff who made u feel really welcome. Definately worth a visit.

we went to Fanelli based on a recommendation from friends. It is a very reasonably priced place to eat. honest food of good quality but no frills. This is somewhere to go for an economical, quick bite though it was also clearly a place where locals were happy to sit and spend some time. The place as an eating space at the back (rather crowded) past the bar so it may not be a full as its first seems from a quick look through the door. We had a bison burger and grilled salmon. The burger was good but the salmon was cooked to perfection. we would certainly go again for a informal, reasonably priced meal.

This restaurant/bar is located in one of the most visited corners of Soho. But the place keeps a local ambiance. The food is just good, the drinks are not special but you´ll find there a warm and quiet experience.

We popped in here for a drink whilst shopping and it had a great atmosphere. You can have a beer at the bar and they serve food. Although we didn't set there the food coming out the kitchen looked good.

I've been visiting Fanelli Cafe every time I'm in New York. The place hasn't changed over the last 30 years and probably won't for the next 100 and that is a good thing, believe me. I like the beer selection and the menu has a lot to offer. I really like dropping by in the middle of the afternoon for a late lunch. Long live Fanelli Cafe !!

Bar food means good sandwiches. The obvious old age of this "café" adds charm to a neighborhood that has gone from warehouses to artist lofts to designer boutiques. The patina on many surfaces and photos of prize fighters on the wall are real as is the barely functioning air conditioning in the back room for ladies and gents. Fanelli's has servers that care and offer excellent service. This is a change of pace from the pretentious of the neighborhood.

This place is a nice cosy bar with a pleasant waitress but I got food poisoning from the meatloaf. I was throwing up 4 hours after finishing my lunch!

This restaurant is a very old pub type atmosphere with bar and seating around the bar and then another dining room . Had not been there in years. It was busy, crowded, lunch time but service was still excellent prompt and attentive. My friend and I were very surprised that the food was so good. My friend had fish and chips and I had salmon with fries. I'm in the city every other week and my friend lives in the city and we both said it was one of the best meals we've had in years fish was fantastic and my salmon was excellent. Would return.

After watching a great movie at Angelika theater, my friend and I took a walk here to enjoy our late lunch. She told me this place is pure classic, been here since the 1847 or something like that. Oh wow! Now I really gotta try it! Let's get inside. We got a table right away. We asked our model-like waitress about their signature dishes. She recommended some dishes and for whatever reason both of us ordered the same, veggie burger! I was surprised to hear myself ordering a veggie burger too! When the food came, I was even more surprised that the veggie burger turned out to be truly good. This savory burger was so delicious! Order this dish and make yourself happy! The burger came with a side salad and they added some pesto on the burger too. How dare! This combination was enjoyable! I even didn't mind the bread. I usually don't like the burger bread but I accepted this plate. I couldn't wait and ate it all! If the burger could talk, it would tell you how I did it! Unfortunately I'm the only one talking here. The service was very good. They were busy but they saw me. Would I come back for more? Sure! After another movie at Angelika theater!

This place has been around for almost 200 years! I remember when the supermodels used to live here on Friday and Saturday nights in the 80s and 90s. These days I love coming here with friends on a Saturday afternoon and enjoy a Beefeater & tonic with lemon. Lots of folks from out of town, strolling thru Soho stop here to take a break from tourism and realize the locals use this place like Norm from Cheers. Always have a great time here. Good service, love the atmosphere.

My wife had been here on a previous visit to NYC, and thought it was outstanding for a good pub lunch. Indeed she was spot on - good atmosphere, good service, very good pub food - excellent value.

This SoHo institution serves good food with friendly staff with a welcoming atmosphere and a welcome respite from the chain stores and luxury stores that dominate the area now.

Very nice service, quick food, well made, very suitable for a break! The white wine spritzer was very refreshing

We ordered coffee and sat down at a table outside. The restaurant was not busy. It was 12.30, and after 5 minutes the owner/manager comes and says: "You have placed yourself on premium seats and even there is a table for 4 people and it is lunch time. You have only bought coffee to go - you can sit at a table around the corner instead!” Why doesn't he say “How are you. Is the coffee good. I would be happy if you could change to one of our other tables - it’s just around a corner, please.” Good coffee - bad attitude.

Yes this sounds like a lot to say about a small bar but trust me, it is true. For 3 years my friends and I have gone to NYC each December for a week of shopping, eating, and drinking. We stay in the theater district so we have the opportunity to eat at many 1st rate restaurants (which we do) and drink at some great bars (which we also do.) In 2012 we stumbled upon Fanelli's by sheer luck and were smitten. We were in SOHO just walking about looking for a bar. Not knowing anything about the bar's reputation (which is good) and history (which is great) we lucked into a great meal and several hours of enjoyment. They have the best burger (hand made) I have had by far. We sat at the bar and enjoyed cocktails and banter with the bar tender for several hours. It is a stop each year for us. I do not know what else I can say.

Take a trip back a few years and enjoy a real downtown feel. Love this pub when I am downtown and need a good beer. Food is good for lunch. Staff is friendly.

Friendly staff and good price for a beer!!! Nice place! Try the brooklyin brewer lager, and some chicken fingers, american style!

A long established, authentic cafe, full of locals, and also very friendly to visitors. I loved being in a SoHo cafe that the newbies are tring to be. Good food, and good value.

Bored of wandering round So Ho (or so-so, as we called it!) and eyeballing endless prohibitively expensive designer shops, we were desperate for a coffee and a sit down. For people who'd done their research, I blush to say we'd never heard of this place , but seeing it, thought it looked like a proper Italian cafe. In we went, and there it was, in all its unrestored glory. Excellent coffee, and the anticipated (but not yet met in NY) automatic refills. Service not quick, but friendly in one instance, and less so in another! We thought it the high spot of our visit to So Ho and Greenwich Village and only on looking it up did I realise it was a New York institution that we'd stumbled upon. I dread the word "authentic" but this did have the ring of authenticity to it, and we absolutely loved it.

The restaurant is quite dim & old, but the service prompt and the personnel is kind. Dishes: hamburger, eggs, sandwich etc. good to give a try.?

This popular, long time neighbourhood restaurant oozes character and history. The service was friendly and helpful. It was fun to eat here and the Bloody Mary was excellent.

Great food. The steak sandwich and the fries were top! Very friendly staff! Can only recommend!👍🏻 Come back here next NY visit.

Delicious burger and fresh french fries. Friendly service. Buzzy atmosphere. Feels like an English pub inside but food is delicious. Would definitely recommend.

With its ancient patina, pressed tin ceiling, dark wood 1890’s-style bar, and historic boxing photos, Fanelli’s is the old SoHo of your imagination. Despite the incessant gentrification and disappearing walls of street art outside its door, inside Reliability is an eternal pleasure. Even the smoking ban of 2003 which brought the front room into focus failed to diminish its authenticity. At any hour there always seems to be an easy mix of construction workers, euro-tourists, local regulars and fans like us who all fall into natural conversation in a very non-NYC way. My wife and I have been coming here for fifteen years just for the Bloody Marys. We happily look forward to the uncomplicated menu and not quite surly service. The attractive bartenders change, the formulas change, but the Bloodies are always unchangeably the Best in the City. Our fondest memory is the Australian who confidently added a dose of Guinness to his mix. That’s why we were concerned on our last visit that the pint glasses seem to have given way to smaller high ball servings, an unwelcome change to a long tradition. Hopefully it was an anomaly. But we felt that childhood twinge of regret when the candy bars got smaller. It won’t stop us from coming by any means, but we hope it ain’t so. Maybe nothing is permanent, but Bloody Goodness served in a pint ought to be unchangeably sacred. And that’s the whole charm of Fanelli’s.

An unpretentious place to meet with friends for a beer and a snack. The neighborhood has gone to the dogs but Fanelli abides.

The food, service and atmosphere take you back to days gone by. My teens and I had a great time learning about the history of the restaurant. The staff were very proud of their restaurant and they should be.

Stumbled on upon this gem while taking in the city. My son had the meatloaf and said it was better than grandmas! Chicken sandwich was good too! Ambience is like a true cafe, old world charm. Staff was super friendly though we did feel out of place.

We all enjoyed our dinner and I'm sure many people think this type of cramped, original structure place is quaint but it's so tightly packed I hit people in the back with my handbag. It's definitely in need of an update so if you're looking for ambience, you're not going to be pleased. If you just want a good meal, this is the place but be prepared to wait.

Stopped to cool off and have quick lunch. The gazpacho was delicious, my husband loved his fish and chips. The waitresses are so friendly, a very neighborhood feel!!

Warm and friendly staff, excellent burger and fries, very reasonable prices. If that is what your in the mood for, this place can't be beat!

I asked a friend to recommend a real taste of New York for our family trip in August & he said a trip to Fanelli’s would ‘hit the spot’ - how right he was. The bar was buzzing when we arrived and after a few minutes wait we were taken to our table. The service was great as was the menu - full of classic New York food and drink. The food came quickly and every dish was excellent - from my son’s steak right through to the classic meatloaf! Lots of great beers to wash it down too. As prices go it was really great value for money. Certainly worth a visit and we will return next time we are in NYC!

We were out walking on Saturday evening, with cars banned on the streets because of the blizzard. It was blustery, but very fun. When we were tired and cold enough, though, we happen by Fanelli Cafe, and found a delightful haven. Excellent beers on tap, and delicious burgers. This is apparently a neighborhood institution with a lot of history. Pictures of famous pugilists all over the walls.

What an adorable little bar/cafe. Felt like we'd stepped back in time as we walked in off the street for breakfast. Full of locals and tourists alike - service was friendly, food was great!

The café/bar is located on the corner of Prince and Mercer a block south of the Angelika Film Center, so very convenient before or after an early day film. I say early because the hours are from 10:00 to 1:30 or to 4:00 on weekends. The interior is dark, but in a comfortably warm way an old bar or tavern might feel like with many old photos of boxing champs on the walls. We stop in on Christmas day after a very early film and settled in for omelets. The food is generally simple, what many would call "bar food", but the menu had a lot more items on it than what you might equate to a bar. Speaking for the omelets, we had build-your-own style with choice of salad or fries. We had the salads, and the with the eggs, it was the perfect lunch stop for our day. Would definitely stop in again.... give it a try!

We went to Fanelli Cafe on the first night of our stay in NYC - what a great find! The cafe was busy with locals even on a Monday night - always a good sign - but the owner managed to squeeze us in. After a long day of travelling, we decided to share some appetizers which were delicious - especially the meatballs! There was a great atmosphere and it felt like an authentic NYC experience - the perfect way to start our trip. Would highly recommend!

Were walking around the SoHo area and got hungry so we stopped in this little gem of a place, the young lady working there made us feel like we were at home, cute, quaint place, lots of selections on the menu. We had hummus with pita chips for an appetizer, probably the best hummus I have had to date. Very yummy! Had the Garden salad, was delish! Hit the spot for sure! Service was superb. Would def go back!

We visited NYC, ate here before and had to return! You walk in and are welcomed straight away. The menu is exactly what you expect from a New York cafe and the steak sandwich was to die for. Wash it down with Brooklyn lager and you have an amazing lunch!

It's good to dine casually in the heart of Soho. I don't expect the artistic dish at this restaurant. But expect casual and home made-ish cuisine. And They make it!

This is a very reasonably priced eatery in the heart of Soho. Great vibes and friendly staff. I suspect they missed my table's order as we waited some 40 minutes for our food. When the food came, they missed the side order and had to wait for another 10 minutes for the side order to come. I ordered the crab cake sandwich. I find the crab cake on the dry side. The burger would have tasted better if they use a mayo sauce. If not for the wait, I would have given them a 4 star.

We were in town for some shopping and decided to stop in for lunch. Great food, love the old style feel. The waitress was very nice. BLT, Grilled Chicken salad and Chicken Fingers, all were amazing. Definitely will go back when we visit in the Spring.

This restaurant was recommended by a local. An American pub type restaurant with excellent food. We had the grilled salmon sandwich with fresh cut fries.Excellent. Good service and reasonable prices.

Nice doors with cut glass design invited me into the small pub, with wood bar and tile floors. Tin ceiling completed the "look" but it's genuine- café established in 1847. Food choices rang the gauntlet; I chose grilled Portobello with red pepper sandwich and caramelized onion sauce. Delicious! Had ice tea. Would return.

Fanellis is a great old school bar. Beautiful old school interior. We had the chili and a grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for a rainy cool day.

This place should have some kind of protective status. For me, a Londoner, it’s what NYC is all about. Neighbourhood bar bumping into a few tourists. Everything is no nonsense. What you see is what you get. Beers and burgers kind of joint. What makes it amazing are the people that drink there and work there. I love it.

Stopped by for drinks and snacks on a cold Sunday afternoon. The historic ambiance was charming. The place had an unpretentious, neighborhood feel and good prices. We sat at a table in the back room. There was a lengthy bar in front that looked fun. The patrons at all the other tables were eating full meals that looked delicious. Chic crowd too.

Came across Fanelli during our excursion in SoHo and stopped for a quick lunch. Had no idea going in that it was among the oldest continuously serving restaurants in New York, but the framed liquor licenses from the 1800s gave that away. We found standard cafe spread, well prepared and served promptly, and left pleased and contented.

This is a small cafe / bar that serves a range of types of food and an extensive beer list. The place has character and an old school Italian feel to the decor. Great for a burger and a beer

Shopping in SOHO with friends and dropped in for lunch. We were steered to the back room and seated in a blind corner next to the kitchen door. Asked for better seating and she managed to create an equally dreadful setup. We were right under the big screen TV but it wasn't turned on. Getting ready to order from an attitude-laden waitress when a party of six fellows comes in and the waitress asks them if they want the TV turned on for the game. I ask the waitress if we can be seated elsewhere since we are directly under the TV and she ignored us. I tried to talk to the hostess and got an eye-roll, a shrug and a "whatever" look for my efforts. They don't have to treat me like royalty but a modicum of pleasantness would be nice. We left. While regrouping outside the six fellows emerged. I asked why and they said staff were having a spat about the TV.

We popped in her for a drink after shopping on Broadway and it was like stepping back in time. Amazing old bar and friendly staff. We only got drinks and a delicious bar snack of potato skins but would certainly return for a full meal!

Awful service and very bad food... Cannot believe how they can be so many years open... Nothing positive to comment... Waiters do not attend you, you must look for them to be serviced.. Sorry for this, I cannot believe this is 4 rated...??

... passed it many times and finally went in. another age! for the better, no wifi. small. I sat the bar but there are a line of small tables also plus a room in the back. A delicious BLT with salad was perfect. refills on soft drinks. the crowd is sports oriented and local but you feel right at home from the moment you enter. loved it!

Was there with my adult daughters and we drank wine alone. We had fun with a game of cards, but were told it was not allowed. Asked a servant, did they not know? Completely illogical when other customers sat without anything in the glass with PC and phone.

One of the oldest bars in New York. Unpretentious, friendly and a nice place to have a drink. A typical American bar.

A classic establishment, always there when you need it. Old NYC style speakeasy with a very late night menu.

We stopped in for a late lunch on a recommendation from a sales clerk in a nearby store. Everyone is immediately welcomed upon entering and shown to a seat. It's small, but loads of character. Food was reasonable, lots of choice and my burger was cooked beautifully. A Soho classic.

We were shopping in SoHo and were recommended this place for casual lunch. We were not disappointed. This is a small restaurant that was established something like 150 years ago. It is a bit dark, with a long bar running on the right side of the room. Menu and decor reeks of long history and simplicity. Food is good and pricing reasonable. I felt that this place is frequented by locals, who have been coming around regularly. The service was very friendly. I made a mistake of ordering a carafe of wine, thinking it was half a bottle (it is a whole bottle), but our waitress sorted me out in a friendly way from my mistake. We tried the clam chowder and potato skins, both weren't nice.

There is outside seating and a bar area, but you can sit inside in a quieter area, though the tables are quite crowded together. The atmosphere inside is amazing, like old-time Greenwich Village. They seemed not to have enough serving staff, but the spaghetti and meatballs was good and the fresh-squeezed orange juice is real fresh-squeezed, not bottled.

Vegetarian and gluten free options. Extremely popular so possibly go on an off hour if you don’t want to wait. I had great service. Old school cafe. Small intimate space with a lot of charm. Recommend.

Okay food, good service and atmosphere in the pub. The staff were very nice to all, kids and adult. It minds me of an english pub:-)

Our main aim today was to visit @fanellis for lunch, then to randomly explore SoHo. Fanelli’s is an iconic and charming bar and cafe and has become a favourite with the New York diners. Established around 1847 as a grocery store, later it became a bar, then back to a grocery store. This “chop and change” continued for years until Michael Fanelli took over in 1922 rebranding it Fanelli’s Cafe. Later in the 80’s, it served as a gathering place for artists during the transition of Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood from a manufacturing area to an arts community. The vintage decor alone gives away the history which exudes an easy-going atmosphere with a punch of coziness. This formula beckons many locals who make it their “regular” but also tourists who come to experience a little bit of old New York. Look up when you’re inside and check out the stunning roof with its pressed designs and old world lights which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Take time to run your hand along the wooden bar and reflect on the thousands of people who’ve sat there snd shared an ale. For lunch we chose a BLT with salad and a burger with fries. Both delicious. Our waitress Tatjana was so sweet. She knew the menu, she’s was quick to deliver water to our table and then take our orders. Frank, behind the bar clearly loves his job, attending to his patrons with a smile and light conversation. The menu is classic pub food with a modern day touch. Whether you’re an adult or child, there’s something for everyone here. Prices are reasonable making it affordable to all. Dine indoors or out on the r pavement in the Fanelli seats. Highly recommend you visit if only to soak up a little bit of old New York. #thewanderingreviewer #fanelliscafe #newyork2024 #fanelli #fanellirestaurant #fanellicafe #fanellinyc #fanellinsoho

If you find yourself wandering around Soho around lunchtime you might want to checkout Fanelli’s Café. I’d call it more of a dive bar with attitude. Regulars sit at the old world bar and point out tables for tourists if the waitresses are not quick enough. But they usually are…as we opened the door they shouted “C’mon in.” So we did. And were seated at the red and white checker cloth tables in the bar room (there is also a backroom). Don’t expect anything particularly creative on the menu: we (two old people with their two grandchildren) had NY strip with fries (nicely medium rare), a cheese burger (also medium rare) and fish and chips (too heavily breaded cod). Photos of old boxers were the décor. Smokers stood right outside the front door. Wine is not very good and overpriced (as is the case everywhere in this town), but the beer could be good. Try it at least once. You might enjoy it…we did.

Came in for lunch on Sunday 8/17/25 and sat outside under their awning as inside was sold out. My sister and nephew were in town so we met up at Fanelli’s as they were in the area shopping. I haven’t been back in over 10 years so it was a nice return. I had the grilled chicken club, nephew had steak sandwich and my sister a grilled chicken salad. Plates were empty by the time we were finished. Definitely go back if in the area.

We stumbled upon this gem by complete accident and so glad we did !! The team were friendly and very knowledgeable when we asked for recommendations. They advised us we had ordered too much food and to try ordering a bit less and see how we get on :) very glad they did ! We sat outside people watching enjoying wine and great food ! Defo recommend

have walked past here on so many occassions without ever going in .....glad i went in this time ....the barman jon is a real character.....very friendly and on the ball....the food was lovely and we didnt want to leave ....will defo be going back....even if its just to say hi to jon and buy him a beer or 3

Went for lunch. Crowded but the food was just average. People are crammed in and the tables are on top of each other. I don't like when the bill comes and the tip is included but no one tells you that. It seemed that the waitress was already waiting on the next group and not our table. Quick clean up of table while you are still talking is always a problem. Some places rely on their reputation more than their food and service.

A place I will visit every time I am in New York! Maybe the best American coffee in the world… delicious burgers, a bar I want to try out! For me is a must!

2nd oldest food/tavern in NYC Ton's of charm .. Maryland crab cake sandwich was top notch/ they make them there. Reasonably priced for NYC You won't be disappointed, unless Uou are hard to please (: enjoy !!

A real taste of New York. I stopped in for a mid-morning coffee during a recent visit to NYC, as I was out and about enjoying walking in the neighborhood. A classic that hasn't changed since I first visited in the 1980s. One can sit and linger, enjoying a beverage or a meal. Glad I stopped in.

Located on Prince & Mercer in the hear of Soho, this landmark is known for friendly service, great food and good bar atmosphere. Locals and visitors hang out here and it's a lot of fun. Everything they serve is high quality. Nothing fancy, just great food.

Stop by Fanelli for a cool drink in this historic building. Amazing vibe. Loved it. Beautiful part of the city. Beautiful buildings. Amazing shopping. We only had drinks - didn’t try the food as we had reservations elsewhere).

Was in a shop on Spring round the corner from this place & asked for a lunch suggestion. This place was perfect (albeit when you first walk in you think “it could do with some more lights in here....”). Nice bar, not too big or small, we managed to grab a table & order easily. Food & drinks came quickly & were all good. Enjoyed it....except for visiting the toilets before we left. They were a disgrace.

Had a quick beer in here in the middle of a heavy SoHo shopping session. Good drinks selection and typically good New York service.

Shopping in the area so dropped in for a quick lunch time “fuel stop”. Didn’t have a reservation but seated quickly. Staff friendly and efficient, food and drinks arrived promptly. Club sandwiches excellent.

I know this is a nostalgic NY favorite, but graffiti filled bathrooms are so 1980s. Its in a good location, and not bad if you want to get a drink and feel like what NY was like when it was gritty.

Very nice experience experience, even if the front doesn't tempt you, don't hesitate to walk through this door, it's very very good

The food is good here. The atmosphere is interesting, kind of old, the scene of some movies (State of Grace, Ghost). The price is good considering you are in SOHO. But it can get noisy. There was some drunk at the end of the bar who was speaking like he was with a megaphone - I think he is a regular fixture here.

I like this place.... It is a nice loca soho bar And restaurant.... You can drink a beer and eat a nice meal.....

Went for sunday brunch before a stroll around SOHO. Fanelli's retains all that good about NY diners and cafes. Scruffy, friendly, homely and welcoming. Red and white checked table cloths and breakfasts to die for. Unlimited coffee too. In an area that has gentrified beyond belief, Fanelli's brings you back to reality and to true New York. Iron clad buildings, cobbled streets and utter charm. Brilliant service too. Thoroughly recommended

When one enters Fanelli's, you can almost feel like you have entered another century except that now there seems to be many more beers from which to select than in 1840. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served all day. Salmon served with a side and mashed potatoes is a favorite of Fanelli's customers. One can order made to order hamburgers and each order is expressly cooked when ordered. Service is a bit slower than fast food places but the wait is worth it I. for one, always order the Prince Edward Island mussels served on rice topped with the mussel cooking broth. One has a choice of several seasonings and again I'm partial to the provincial Italian seasonings. Served with a plate of delicious bread with which one can sop up all the great broth. I don't know if they offer any desserts since the bowl of mussels Is a complete meal for $17.50. This entree could easily be an appetizer for several in a group, but I'm not sharing! Walk right in, find a table either In the front room or the back room. In New York City When Prohibition was repealed, the 1st glass of now legal beverage was served at Fanelli's !

There are some great old bars and restaurants in NY and there are some that are just old bars and restaurants with run down and dirty facilities, poor service and mediocre food. This is one of the latter. We came across this restaurant while shopping and starving at the same time and after a quick look on line decided to give it a try. The place was very busy for lunch and as we walked in the door one of the servers yelled across the room to come in and walk to the back of the restaurant. We did and we were seated close to the service station where the servers yelled at every customer to come in! The food is mediocre at best, takes a while to come out of the kitchen and it's not inexpensive. The beer is great and the location is superb. The owners need to close this place down, renovate, clean it up, hire a new chef and spend some money to reopen a renovated great old bar/restaurant with great service and a layout that works for everyone.

This is a classic downtown New York bar which I believe is the second oldest in the city. Great for having a beer at the bar and listening to or joining in with the local banter. Ace head of bar Mary is the person that keeps it all moving. Just what you expect from a New York bar. Locals and tourists cohabit well. Food is uncomplicated but pretty good too.