In 2013, Carbone made his debut in New York with an extravagant display of veal parmesan, caesar salads tossed at the table, and spicy vodka rigatoni that forever altered the cholesterol landscape of the city. In a matter of days, Mario Carbone, the visionary behind the now sought-after reservations, redefined Italian-American dining, the restaurant culture in New York, and the entire culinary scene – one sumptuous serving at a time.
Fast forward to 2025, and the excitement shows no signs of waning. What commenced as a singular downtown restaurant has blossomed into a global phenomenon, boasting 10 locations (and more on the horizon) from Miami to Las Vegas, Dubai, London, and Hong Kong. Despite traversing the globe to manage his expanding empire, Carbone views travel as an experience of luxury. During an intimate engagement in his London establishment, he reminisces about his initial departure from New York, his first taste of extravagant hotel luxury, and the experience of a meal that truly captivated his palate – which, surprisingly, was not in New York.
The dining room of Le Maurice in Paris
Reflections on Travel and Dining
What was your first significant travel experience, and how did it reshape your perspective?
As a child, my family rarely flew, so my early trips were local excursions to places like Pennsylvania. My first major journey to Italy occurred at 20 when I took on a cooking position. A chef I worked for connected me with a family managing an exceptional restaurant in remote North Western Tuscany. While I intended to stay a few months, I ended up there for over a year and a half. This was my first true adventure away from home, returning only for my sister’s wedding.
What hotel first left a lasting impression on you?
The first hotel I stayed in, which I could barely afford but booked nonetheless, was the Le Meurice in Paris. I was acutely aware of the bill and focused on remaining composed as I paid. The lavishness of the establishment was unparalleled; it was the epitome of luxury.
What defines your first encounter with luxurious travel?
While I could name airlines and list hotels, I believe travel itself embodies luxury. Yes, there are extravagant levels, yet simply having the opportunity to board a plane, explore a new culture, taste local cuisine, and meet diverse people is the true essence of luxury.
When was the last time a meal astonished you?
It’s been quite a while since I’ve been truly amazed by a meal. I had an exceptional dining experience at Dorian in London recently. It’s a risk to launch new restaurants in these times when profitability is unsure. When you discover a place like Dorian, where creativity reigns, it highlights the beauty of culinary exploration. Although there are many new restaurants in New York that I’m eager to try, I haven’t come across a standout meal there in some time.
What souvenirs do you often bring back from your travels?
I typically purchase souvenirs for my dog Rocco, particularly items he is bound to destroy. Whether it’s a soft toy or a squeaky ball, I find humor in choosing something representative of the city I’m visiting. Plus, I always carry cigars on my journeys, although I bring fewer to London since it’s the only city where I can find my preferred brands readily.
Memorable Experiences
Is there a place you wish to rediscover?
Reflecting on my initial move to Italy, life felt considerably simpler back then. Free from the distractions of smartphones and immersed in language learning, I’d roam around with a pocket dictionary, unraveling the charm of every experience. I’d gladly return to that time. Simple tasks like buying fruit or getting a haircut involved a layer of effort, a quest for information that feels almost lost today.
What was your most recent travel experience, and what insights did you gain?
I recently visited Cartagena, Colombia, where I inaugurated a beautiful restaurant within the new Four Seasons Hotel. This marked my fourth trip to the city, and I find its vibrancy captivating. Being there on Good Friday, the bustling streets were charged with energy, creating an almost magical atmosphere. However, culinary offerings are somewhat lacking; the demand for fine dining doesn’t quite exist yet. With our restaurant’s introduction, I’m eager to see its reception.
If you could plan one final journey, where would it take you?
New York continually comes to mind as a destination I’d revisit. Imagining indulging in all my favorite meals – a pastrami sandwich, a street hot dog, exceptional pizza, or indulging in a perfect bagel – while strolling through familiar streets is deeply appealing. Although my time in New York is limited these days, I maximize every moment there; the urgency of having limited time fuels my enthusiasm for experiencing everything to the fullest.
