Skip to main content
0 Followers

Free analytics & customer insights

Fanelli Cafe

94 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
$$$$
American, Burgers
📍 Directions

ZipPicks Awards

Best American in Soho Best Burgers in Soho

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Fanelli Cafe 8.0
SoHo
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Comfort Food Classics Late Night Legends Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Operating on this corner since the 19th century, Fanelli Cafe is one of New York’s oldest bar-restaurants, now serving straightforward pubby American fare to artists, locals, and visitors in a time-worn room. Burgers, chili, and open-faced tuna melts anchor a menu that’s more about atmosphere, value, and history than trend-chasing.
Must-Try Dishes: Fanelli's Burger with Fries, Open-Faced Tuna Melt with Cheddar, Moroccan Lamb Stew
Scores:
Value: 8.7 Service: 7 Consistency: 8.1 Food Quality: 7.2 Atmosphere: 8.9 Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Historic SoHo tavern where burgers, chili, and martinis meet creaky floors and decades of stories.
Who should go: Anyone craving classic bar food in a lived-in NYC room.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before the bar fully packs in.
What to order: Fanelli's burger, chili or lamb stew, and a beer or martini.
Insider tip: Bar stools are prime—watch the room and people-watch Prince Street.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Prince and Mercer are scarce and fill quickly, especially evenings.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, tees, and layers are standard; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; bar chatter can make conversations lively but not impossible.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes depending on bar crowd and weather.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, with faster turnover at the bar.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options such as salads, grilled cheese, and sides; limited but workable.
Vegan options: Very limited—expect only simple sides or modifications.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu, but some items like chili or salads can be adapted; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something low-key and authentic; the historic tavern vibe makes it charming, but it’s more casual than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Fanelli is walk-in only. Arrive earlier in the evening or mid-afternoon for the shortest waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally fine for older kids during daytime; evenings skew bar-heavy, so families may prefer earlier visits.
Best For
Better for: Classic bar comfort food, historic atmosphere, quick solo meals, and affordable drinks in SoHo.
Skip if: You want trendy dishes, quiet dining, extensive dietary accommodations, or large-group comfort.