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Carla

Carla, 331 W 51st St, New York

4.6
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.6 out of 5 (50 Ratings)
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0.3 miles Carnegie Hall
About Carla
The Spotlight on Carla

Casual Comfort with a Creative Twist in Midtown NYC

Carla is a welcoming American restaurant tucked away on West 51st Street in Midtown Manhattan, offering a cozy, laid-back vibe with a dash of urban chic. Just steps from major Broadway theaters and top concert venues, it's become a favorite for locals and visitors looking for inspired comfort food in a relaxed setting. With its warm lighting, exposed brick, and friendly staff, Carla blends the feel of a neighborhood gem with the energy of the city.

Why Concert-goers love it

Carla’s prime location makes it a top pick for concert-goers heading to venues in the Theater District and beyond. The atmosphere is low-key but lively, perfect for catching up with friends before a show without shouting over loud music. Diners appreciate the efficient, attentive service—a big plus when you're on a schedule. The menu is compact but satisfying, with dishes that are flavorful, filling, and arrive quickly, so you won’t miss your curtain call.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a relaxed but stylish meal before the show
  • Solo travelers grabbing a bite before seeing a bucket-list artist
  • Couples enjoying a romantic night in Midtown
  • Fans who want a buzzing but comfortable pre-show hangout
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who still want a quality dining experience

What People Say

Reviews rave about Carla’s friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and creative twists on American favorites. The truffle fries and fried chicken sandwich earn frequent shout-outs, and guests love how the restaurant feels “like a hidden gem” despite its central location. Many mention it’s a great spot for a relaxed dinner that still feels a little special.

Areas for Improvement

While most guests enjoy the intimate setting, some note that seating can feel a bit tight during peak hours. The menu is somewhat limited, so if you're looking for a wide range of options, it may not be the best fit. But what it does, it does well.

The Bottom Line

If you’re heading to a concert in Midtown and want a delicious, cozy meal without the hassle, Carla is a solid bet for a stress-free, satisfying pre-show experience.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
American
Opening Hours
Mon-Thu 4:30 pm-9:45 pm
Fri 12:00 pm-10:30 pm
Sat 11:00 am-10:30 pm
Sun 11:00 am-9:45 pm

Carla Customer Reviews

Overall Average Score: 
Exceptional (5 out of 5)

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5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Marla, Tiverton Sun, 25 June 2023

What a great place to go before a show. Ate just enough to feel satisfied and not bloated. Very reasonably priced. Good food and great atmosphere.

Liked: The margaritas, the apps and lively bartender.
Disliked: Nothing; maybe a bit loud, but that's the norm.

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Carla is #3440 of 14717 things to do in New York City

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: marciamL8220NS, Lexington, Massachusetts
Mon 11 Nov, 2024
l Really delicious lunch! Service was great and the entire experience was lovely. My only suggestion is to make the drinks larger and a bit less expensive.

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: P7836MAnancys, Canterbury, New Hampshire
Sat 19 Oct, 2024
l Friday night in NYC with the age old question of where to go for dinner. Literally picked the knife and fork symbol off the map and said here. And so very glad we did. Tucked away, Carla is the...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: dawnrR2003AE
Sat 15 Jun, 2024
l Carla's was a great pre-show restaurant, Delicious food options, awesome atmosphere, friendly, quick service. Highly recommend.

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Carla 331 W 51st St, New York