Celeste

- 502 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

Celeste is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cherished neighborhood institution that brings the soul of Northern Italy to the heart of New York City. Nestled in a cozy spot on the Upper West Side, this charming eatery has become a go-to for locals and visitors alike who are searching for an authentic, no-fuss Italian dining experience. With a commitment to simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, Celeste has cultivated a reputation for serving exceptional comfort food in an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the tantalizing aroma of wood-fired pizza and simmering sauces, a promise of the delicious meal to come.

What sets Celeste apart is its dedication to authenticity. The menu is a love letter to Italian culinary traditions, featuring handcrafted pasta made fresh daily and pizzas baked to perfection in a scorching 700-degree wood-fired oven. The focus here is on genuine flavors and satisfying portions, making it the perfect spot for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a celebratory dinner with friends and family. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Neapolitan pizza, a rich Bolognese, or a unique seasonal special, Celeste delivers a truly memorable dining experience that feels both rustic and refined.

For New Yorkers seeking a slice of la dolce vita without the transatlantic flight, Celeste offers a genuine taste of Italy. Its relaxed, friendly vibe and consistently delicious food make it a standout choice in a city overflowing with dining options. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again, whether for a quiet solo meal or a lively gathering. The word “Celeste” means “heavenly,” and for many of its devoted patrons, the name is a fitting description for the culinary bliss they find here.

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### Location and Accessibility

Celeste is conveniently located at 502 Amsterdam Ave, in the vibrant Upper West Side neighborhood of New York, NY 10024. This prime location places it within easy reach of several key attractions and residential areas, making it a natural hub for the community. The restaurant is situated between West 84th and West 85th Streets, a block away from the bustling Broadway thoroughfare and a short walk from Central Park. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and a lively cultural scene, making it a pleasure to walk through before or after your meal.

Getting to Celeste is easy, thanks to a variety of transportation options. For those using the subway, the 1 train stops at 86th Street, just a couple of blocks away, providing a direct connection to much of Manhattan. Bus service is also plentiful in the area, with several routes running along Amsterdam Avenue and Broadway. While parking can be a challenge in New York City, Celeste offers both free and paid street parking options nearby, and there are several parking garages in the vicinity. The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their visit comfortably. For those who prefer to dine at home, the restaurant offers curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and traditional takeout services, bringing the taste of Italy directly to your door.

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### Services Offered

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy a full dining experience in Celeste's cozy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a dinner date or a night out with friends.

• Brunch and Lunch: Celeste serves delicious meals throughout the day, including a dedicated brunch menu with unique Italian-inspired egg dishes and breakfast pastries, as well as a lunch menu that’s perfect for a mid-day break.

• Delivery and Takeout: Can't make it to the restaurant? Order your favorite dishes for delivery or pickup and enjoy them in the comfort of your home. They offer both traditional and no-contact delivery options for your convenience.

• Reservations: While the restaurant is known to have a wait during peak hours, they do accept reservations, which is a great way to ensure you get a table, especially for a special occasion.

• Catering: While not explicitly stated, the restaurant's menu and service options suggest that it may be a great option for catering small events and gatherings with their delicious, crowd-pleasing dishes.

• Bar Service: With a fully stocked bar, Celeste is also a wine bar and a beer destination, offering a great selection of drinks to complement your meal. This makes it an ideal spot for happy hour or a pre-dinner drink.

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### Features and Highlights

• Authentic Northern Italian Cuisine: Celeste specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, offering a unique and authentic taste that distinguishes it from other Italian restaurants in the city. The menu is packed with traditional dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

• Handmade Pasta: A major highlight is the "Pasta Fatta in Casa" (handmade pasta) section of the menu. Their pasta is prepared fresh daily, giving it a superior texture and flavor that elevates classic dishes like the Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci.

• Wood-Fired Pizza: The restaurant's 10-inch pizzas are a must-try. Made with fresh dough, San Marzano tomatoes, and extra-virgin olive oil, they are cooked in a 700-degree wood-flavored oven, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust with a smoky, rustic flavor.

• Extensive Wine List: The restaurant is known for its "Great wine list," featuring a curated selection of Italian and international wines that perfectly pair with the menu. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the ideal bottle for your meal.

• Diverse Offerings: Celeste caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, with a menu that includes healthy options, organic dishes, and a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. They also offer Halal food, making it an inclusive choice for many diners.

• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: With an atmosphere described as casual, cozy, and romantic, Celeste is the perfect setting for a date night or a relaxed dinner. The warm lighting and intimate seating arrangements create a welcoming and comfortable environment.

• Family-Friendly: Celeste is a great place for families. It is listed as "Good for kids" and offers high chairs, ensuring that even the youngest diners are comfortable and well-cared for.

• LGBTQ+ Friendly: The restaurant prides itself on being a safe and welcoming space for all, with a "LGBTQ+ friendly" and "Transgender safespace" crowd listed. This commitment to inclusivity is a testament to the restaurant’s community-oriented values.

• Dog-Friendly: For those who love to dine with their furry companions, Celeste is a great choice as it is listed as "Dogs allowed," making it a welcoming spot for pet owners.

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### Contact Information

Address: 502 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

Phone: (212) 874-4559

Mobile Phone: +1 212-874-4559

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### What is worth choosing

When you dine at Celeste, you’re not just choosing a restaurant; you’re choosing an experience. The food itself is a testament to the quality and care that goes into every dish. The handmade pasta is a standout, particularly the Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci in Burro e Salvia, which is a classic dish executed flawlessly. The wood-fired pizzas, with their perfectly blistered crusts and simple, flavorful toppings, are another highlight—the La Margherita is a timeless choice that showcases the quality of the ingredients.

Beyond the staple menu, the specials are where the kitchen truly shines. Look for dishes like the Rack of Lamb or the Sauteed artichokes & shrimps to experience the chef's creativity. And of course, no meal is complete without dessert. The Tiramisu and Panna Cotta are house favorites, offering a perfect, sweet finish to your meal.

The atmosphere at Celeste is another major draw. It’s a place that feels like a warm hug, where the staff is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is both lively and intimate. It’s the kind of spot that can turn a simple weeknight dinner into a memorable occasion. The combination of incredible, authentic food, a cozy setting, and a welcoming staff makes Celeste a truly special place. It’s a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of New York City, and for that reason alone, it's worth a visit.

Celeste

502 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA