Located at 244 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017, Il Tinello is an old-school, classic Italian restaurant that embodies the essence of a bygone era. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be transported to a time when candles adorned the tables and attentive service was the norm. The candlelit atmosphere, combined with the nostalgic tunes of Frank Sinatra playing in the background, creates a charming and romantic ambiance that is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the theater district.
To start off your dining experience is their bread service, which includes roast eggplant and zucchini, accompanied by a delightful Caponata. It sets the tone for the rest of the meal and offers a tantalizing glimpse into the flavors to come.
The restaurant itself exudes a classic, art deco vibe that manages to capture the essence of the era without feeling outdated. It’s a perfect blend of old-world charm and timeless elegance. The music selection further enhances the ambiance, with its soothing melodies reminiscent of classic New York.
One standout dish at Il Tinello is their Caesar salad, which, in my opinion, is among the best I’ve ever had. The secret lies in the way they prepare it tableside, demonstrating their dedication to the craft. The combination of fresh ingredients and expert mixing, coupled with the theatrics of having it prepared right in front of you, adds an extra element of freshness that is hard to match. Unlike salads that may sit in the kitchen for a few minutes, this Caesar salad feels vibrant and alive.
The service at Il Tinello is exceptional and deserves special mention. There was a moment when our waiter effortlessly cleared the table, skillfully using a spoon to swiftly remove any remnants while also managing to clear the utensils. It was a display of precision and efficiency that spoke volumes about the staff’s expertise and experience. From the preparation of the salad tableside to the overall attentiveness, the staff’s commitment to their craft truly shines through.
When it comes to the food itself, Il Tinello delivers classic Italian fare that perfectly aligns with the restaurant’s ambiance and the dedication of its staff. The flavors are authentic, and each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.
Whether you visit Il Tinello for its incredible service or to indulge in the best Caesar salad you’ve ever tasted, you won’t be disappointed. The restaurant’s outstanding reputation is evident in the numerous five-star reviews it has received on platforms like Google Maps, with over 100 satisfied customers vouching for its excellence.
Il Tinello is the type of restaurant that transports you to a specific moment in time when waiters were masters of their craft, Sinatra’s music filled the air, and traditions were upheld with pride. It’s a place where you can experience the charm of old-school dining and create lasting memories in a setting that captures the essence of classic New York.