Fanelli Café

"The quintessential Soho saloon opened in 1847, and a visit to Fanelli’s is to step back in time; no place in Soho evokes the 19th century and the area’s cast-iron era more effectively. The bar food is predictable, running to burgers, shepherd’s pie, and chili con carne served with grated cheddar and sour cream. Isolated in its own pool of light, Fanelli’s burnished its image as a late-evening destination during the pandemic." - Robert Sietsema, Melissa McCart

"Around in some form since 1847, this Italian-ish tavern is a legendary spot where Bob Dylan used to hang out. It’s also one of the only places in Soho where you can get a reasonably priced meal. That’s partly why it turns into a block party, with self-described entrepreneurs, MFA candidates, and former water polo players who are now really into EDM mingling on the sidewalk, clutching wine and cigarettes. The best tables are outside, because that’s where everyone can see you." - bryan kim, willa moore, neha talreja

"Succession’s Nicholas Braun, also informally known as NYC’s boyfriend, has been spotted at this 175-year-old Soho institution with his bestie McLovin from Superbad (yes, he has a name — Christopher Mintz-Plasse — but only his mom calls him that). Also, NYC’s original downtown It Girl Chloe Sevigny has been spotted here and I’d like to imagine she ordered the Pat LaFrieda hot dog, because, just like hot dogs, Chloe is a NYC staple. But Fanelli’s most frequent celebrity patron might be Chris Rock. He has been seen here eating solo at the bar (we love an Independent King), and perched at one of their outdoor tables a couple hours before they even opened. Maybe he wanted to be first in line for their bacon, egg, cheddar, and arugula breakfast sandwich?" - Deuxmoi

"Is the food at Fanelli mind-blowing? Of course not. We wouldn’t even say it’s great. But if you need a last-minute table for a dinner with a friend who requires a scene and you’d rather not have to pay more than $30 for your dinner, swing by. This century-old tavern where Bob Dylan used to hang out has become a mingling ground for people who like to pair cowboy boots with Chanel, and there’s always a crowd loitering outside. Put your name in for a table, then eat a plate of chicken fingers." - Bryan Kim, Neha Talreja, Kenny Yang

"Trends are cyclical, so it was only a matter of time before Fanelli Cafe became hip again. In the mid-twentieth century, this Soho restaurant was a hangout for beat poets and musicians like Bob Dylan, and now it’s one of the preferred destinations for people who wear tiny sunglasses and oversized pants. Swing by if you want to mingle with some influencers and enjoy a roughly $30 meal that consists of very normal bar food. The little space is dark and tavern-like, and there are some tables outside, where you’ll see folks congregating on the sidewalk." - Willa Moore, Bryan Kim, Kenny Yang, Carina Finn Koeppicus