Food was about par. Not great but certainly not bad. The portions are not as large as I'd like for the price. At the end of our meal the waiter chased us down in the parking lot. It turns out he rang my credit card as a gift card and obviously it didn't work. The worst part wasn't the embarrassment of this, but the fact that the waiter and the manager we're accusing me of using a bad credit card and trying to leave without paying. Once they realized their error, they never apologized. I will NEVER be back. What an embarrassment and unnecessary situation. The management really need to be better trained on how to handle such issues.
(1)
Carol J.
We missed a family birthday last month while traveling, so upon our return we took 8 family members to Carrabba's for a celebration dinner. When seated, a woman was going from table to table promoting gift cards. She said we could use it for this meal plus get a $20 card. So we bought one. When we paid for our dinner, we gave them the new gift card plus a credit card. We were in the parking lot when our waiter ran out the door, yelled for us to stop and told us our card didn't work so we needed to pay. We were shocked, to say the least, and embarrassed to be stopped in the parking lot on a Friday night in front of many people, a few who knew us. We sent the rest of our family to our home where we all planned enjoy cake, coffee and gifts, while we tried to sort this mess out. Instead of taking us to an office or out of ear shot or view, the waiter who was upset was talking with my husband beside the hostess station, saying our card did not work. We asked for a manager but had to wait a few minutes for her to s how up. Again, very upsetting for us as well as embarrassing. By that time our waiter, my husband & I, the manager on duty, another employee, and the woman who sold us the gift card were all huddled in clear view and earshot of the bar and entrance. I felt like we had become the entertainment for the evening. After a few minutes it was determined that the gift card had been rung up as a credit card. I realize this review has nothing to do with the food. However, our experience ruined what should have been a happy occasion. I drive pass Carrabba's at least 2 times a day and still think of how embarrassed I was. The staff should be better instructed on how to handle such situations. The manager should have known to speak to us in a private location. Any other restaurant would have made an offer - free drinks, free appetizers, free desserts, % of your next bill - anything would have made us feel valued. Instead, we drove home to 2 cars in our driveway waiting for us and a huge damper on our celebration.
(1)
David G.
Always a line out the door so get there early. Never had a bad meal! Knocks Olive Garden out of the park.
(5)
Jordan S.
I find it hard to say negative things about this place. It's everything that the Olive Garden wishes it was. A chain...yes, but somehow, you get the impression that they really care about making their food. There's also a hint of professionalism in the staff not typically seen at the OG. The complimentary fresh bread immediately placed on each table saves me from ordering an appetizer. I would be completely happy with my glass of water and free bread, but that practice is typically frowned upon. So, I order the Chicken Marsala, which speaks to me in a language typically reserved for steak.
(4)
Roberto B.
Everything is good. If by chance it's not, they fix it right away.
(4)
Danny B.
Lame chain. Head over to Tuscany Grill or head to Domenico in Rockledge or heck, even Amici's and support local businesses that care for quality dining choices. And for those comparing to Olive Garden, continue to do so because for me it's all the same. I wouldn't waste my time or money, just my opinion!
(2)
Rachel R.
It's a good carrabbas, as most usually are. Same typical menu and usually good service. We eat at this location a couple times a month maybe. First place I've ever tried calamari at and it was great. I love the tag pic pac pasta with chicken and the mezzaluna too. My bf likes all the different Marsalas and the prosciutto wrapped tenderloin. They also have a great Cesar salad.
(3)
Amanda B.
I love Carrabba's. And this location does a great job with the food and drinks. One of my favorite chains.
(5)
George G.
First time to Carrabba's in Florida, so we were hoping it has the same quality as the one in NJ. Stopped in for lunch and got seated quickly, hostess and waiter was friendly and on top of the drinks (never went empty). The lunch menu is a bit different from the dinner menu, so I went with the soup & pizza combo. It was great...the Italian sausage lentil soup was very flavorful and the pizza was great too. I was very pleased with Carrabba's...as usual!! The one down side (nothing to do with the food or service) there want any cell service or wifi in most of the place. I asked the hostess, she said on the area near the window in the bar section gets it, otherwise it is hit or miss. But that doesn't justify a star reduction on Carrabba's behalf. Keep up the great work!!
(5)
D O.
At one time this Carrabba's was good. However, we went here on 4-26-15 & they were out of certain food items (at 6:30 p.m. yet!). The food items we ended getting was a little burnt in one while mine was undercooked. The portions were small & the price was large. I asked 1 server (that left our food) for a refill & he took off (never came back). Had to get my waiter for it. Talk about disappointment! Never coming back here...
(1)
Danielle L.
If you been to one carabbas you've been to most. Carrabbas is great. This is the location I visit most, and I haven't had any problem. I enjoy coming here every chance I get the food is always great and the service is too.
(5)
Lxs S.
In the realm of Italian chain restaurants, you could do much worse. All the staff was friendly and welcoming. Service was fast and attentive. My niece had Fettucine Alfredo. Perfect al dente pasta with a well-balanced sauce. Nice portion size meant pasta for breakfast. I chose the grilled chicken with a side of veggies. The chicken was marinated with Italian seasonings and grilled just a tad too long. Juicy chicken goodness was replaced with just a little too much knife action required to get through a slightly leathery slab. The flavor was ok but a minute less on the grill would have made a huge difference. The side veggies included plenty of well-cooked broccoli which happens to be one of my fave veggies, so all in all, I'm not complaining. My one gripe? Nearly every table is a high 'harvest' table with stools. I'm very aware this is the cool new dining concept, but it's totally uncomfortable if you are short, and I am. Just getting on the stool and then getting close enough to the table to be comfy requires a few years of gymnastics training. If you're a lady wearing lets say a cocktail dress and heels, then you'd better have a gold medal in pairs skating because you're going to need help getting up and down without exposing yourself to the other diners. Once on the chair, the rungs were so low that my feet dangled like a 2-yr old's in a high chair. Hardly a pleasant experience. And yes, there were a few low tables but those were all occupied which pretty much implies that most people, when, they have a choice, will pick the low tables.
(3)
Rachel M.
I had a random craving for Carrabba's ever since it had come up in conversation a few weeks back. I decided to pay the place a visit with my family. It had been quite awhile since I had some Italian style seafood so we started of with a calamari appetizer. The first few pieces were good - the batter is a little too heavy for my liking but overall, it could have easily satisfied my craving. However, a little bit farther into the appetizer and I came across a not so fresh piece of calamari. It was really fishy...and gross. What's unfortunate is that I also chose a seafood dish for my meal - the linguini pescatore or whatever it's called (it has mussels, scallops, and shrimp all in a spicy marinara sauce). My appetite for seafood was ruined by the calamari but even so, I wouldn't have enjoyed the dish anyway as the sauce was really bland. I know people rave about Carrabba's quality of food for a chain restaurant but I just wasn't impressed. The bread and olive oil IS good though...but that's kind of hard to mess up.
(2)
Eye F.
A step above Olive Garden. Can't think of a reason to go to either one of them.
(2)
Rich A.
Having lived most of my life in the NYC area (where it is hard to find bad Italian food), this food seems bland & tasteless. If forced to go here, stick with their pizzas...or better yet go 200 yards further on Wickham & eat at Amici's
(2)
Erin F.
get the "chicken bryan" its delicious! long waits, but overall great place
(4)
Troy S.
Me and my wife went in for happy hours from 4 pm - 7 pm ! I asked the waiter does still happy hours and he said yes ! They had a table for us , the foods was not bad but not great .. After that were pay full price because they're told us happy hours just for another side in the restaurant ??? They're should tell us when we asked .. feel like a trick to get customers there !
(1)
Christie D.
Food and service were both amazing as always! Megan got us hooked on the spicy sausage and lentil soup and she made sure our visit was perfect. The food was incredible as always. Our sirloin Marsala was perfectly cooked and the taste was out of this world! Definitely one of our places to go :)
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Ron J.
Food was about par. Not great but certainly not bad. The portions are not as large as I'd like for the price. At the end of our meal the waiter chased us down in the parking lot. It turns out he rang my credit card as a gift card and obviously it didn't work. The worst part wasn't the embarrassment of this, but the fact that the waiter and the manager we're accusing me of using a bad credit card and trying to leave without paying. Once they realized their error, they never apologized. I will NEVER be back. What an embarrassment and unnecessary situation. The management really need to be better trained on how to handle such issues.
(1)Carol J.
We missed a family birthday last month while traveling, so upon our return we took 8 family members to Carrabba's for a celebration dinner. When seated, a woman was going from table to table promoting gift cards. She said we could use it for this meal plus get a $20 card. So we bought one. When we paid for our dinner, we gave them the new gift card plus a credit card. We were in the parking lot when our waiter ran out the door, yelled for us to stop and told us our card didn't work so we needed to pay. We were shocked, to say the least, and embarrassed to be stopped in the parking lot on a Friday night in front of many people, a few who knew us. We sent the rest of our family to our home where we all planned enjoy cake, coffee and gifts, while we tried to sort this mess out. Instead of taking us to an office or out of ear shot or view, the waiter who was upset was talking with my husband beside the hostess station, saying our card did not work. We asked for a manager but had to wait a few minutes for her to s how up. Again, very upsetting for us as well as embarrassing. By that time our waiter, my husband & I, the manager on duty, another employee, and the woman who sold us the gift card were all huddled in clear view and earshot of the bar and entrance. I felt like we had become the entertainment for the evening. After a few minutes it was determined that the gift card had been rung up as a credit card. I realize this review has nothing to do with the food. However, our experience ruined what should have been a happy occasion. I drive pass Carrabba's at least 2 times a day and still think of how embarrassed I was. The staff should be better instructed on how to handle such situations. The manager should have known to speak to us in a private location. Any other restaurant would have made an offer - free drinks, free appetizers, free desserts, % of your next bill - anything would have made us feel valued. Instead, we drove home to 2 cars in our driveway waiting for us and a huge damper on our celebration.
(1)David G.
Always a line out the door so get there early. Never had a bad meal! Knocks Olive Garden out of the park.
(5)Jordan S.
I find it hard to say negative things about this place. It's everything that the Olive Garden wishes it was. A chain...yes, but somehow, you get the impression that they really care about making their food. There's also a hint of professionalism in the staff not typically seen at the OG. The complimentary fresh bread immediately placed on each table saves me from ordering an appetizer. I would be completely happy with my glass of water and free bread, but that practice is typically frowned upon. So, I order the Chicken Marsala, which speaks to me in a language typically reserved for steak.
(4)Roberto B.
Everything is good. If by chance it's not, they fix it right away.
(4)Danny B.
Lame chain. Head over to Tuscany Grill or head to Domenico in Rockledge or heck, even Amici's and support local businesses that care for quality dining choices. And for those comparing to Olive Garden, continue to do so because for me it's all the same. I wouldn't waste my time or money, just my opinion!
(2)Rachel R.
It's a good carrabbas, as most usually are. Same typical menu and usually good service. We eat at this location a couple times a month maybe. First place I've ever tried calamari at and it was great. I love the tag pic pac pasta with chicken and the mezzaluna too. My bf likes all the different Marsalas and the prosciutto wrapped tenderloin. They also have a great Cesar salad.
(3)Amanda B.
I love Carrabba's. And this location does a great job with the food and drinks. One of my favorite chains.
(5)George G.
First time to Carrabba's in Florida, so we were hoping it has the same quality as the one in NJ. Stopped in for lunch and got seated quickly, hostess and waiter was friendly and on top of the drinks (never went empty). The lunch menu is a bit different from the dinner menu, so I went with the soup & pizza combo. It was great...the Italian sausage lentil soup was very flavorful and the pizza was great too. I was very pleased with Carrabba's...as usual!! The one down side (nothing to do with the food or service) there want any cell service or wifi in most of the place. I asked the hostess, she said on the area near the window in the bar section gets it, otherwise it is hit or miss. But that doesn't justify a star reduction on Carrabba's behalf. Keep up the great work!!
(5)D O.
At one time this Carrabba's was good. However, we went here on 4-26-15 & they were out of certain food items (at 6:30 p.m. yet!). The food items we ended getting was a little burnt in one while mine was undercooked. The portions were small & the price was large. I asked 1 server (that left our food) for a refill & he took off (never came back). Had to get my waiter for it. Talk about disappointment! Never coming back here...
(1)Danielle L.
If you been to one carabbas you've been to most. Carrabbas is great. This is the location I visit most, and I haven't had any problem. I enjoy coming here every chance I get the food is always great and the service is too.
(5)Lxs S.
In the realm of Italian chain restaurants, you could do much worse. All the staff was friendly and welcoming. Service was fast and attentive. My niece had Fettucine Alfredo. Perfect al dente pasta with a well-balanced sauce. Nice portion size meant pasta for breakfast. I chose the grilled chicken with a side of veggies. The chicken was marinated with Italian seasonings and grilled just a tad too long. Juicy chicken goodness was replaced with just a little too much knife action required to get through a slightly leathery slab. The flavor was ok but a minute less on the grill would have made a huge difference. The side veggies included plenty of well-cooked broccoli which happens to be one of my fave veggies, so all in all, I'm not complaining. My one gripe? Nearly every table is a high 'harvest' table with stools. I'm very aware this is the cool new dining concept, but it's totally uncomfortable if you are short, and I am. Just getting on the stool and then getting close enough to the table to be comfy requires a few years of gymnastics training. If you're a lady wearing lets say a cocktail dress and heels, then you'd better have a gold medal in pairs skating because you're going to need help getting up and down without exposing yourself to the other diners. Once on the chair, the rungs were so low that my feet dangled like a 2-yr old's in a high chair. Hardly a pleasant experience. And yes, there were a few low tables but those were all occupied which pretty much implies that most people, when, they have a choice, will pick the low tables.
(3)Rachel M.
I had a random craving for Carrabba's ever since it had come up in conversation a few weeks back. I decided to pay the place a visit with my family. It had been quite awhile since I had some Italian style seafood so we started of with a calamari appetizer. The first few pieces were good - the batter is a little too heavy for my liking but overall, it could have easily satisfied my craving. However, a little bit farther into the appetizer and I came across a not so fresh piece of calamari. It was really fishy...and gross. What's unfortunate is that I also chose a seafood dish for my meal - the linguini pescatore or whatever it's called (it has mussels, scallops, and shrimp all in a spicy marinara sauce). My appetite for seafood was ruined by the calamari but even so, I wouldn't have enjoyed the dish anyway as the sauce was really bland. I know people rave about Carrabba's quality of food for a chain restaurant but I just wasn't impressed. The bread and olive oil IS good though...but that's kind of hard to mess up.
(2)Eye F.
A step above Olive Garden. Can't think of a reason to go to either one of them.
(2)Rich A.
Having lived most of my life in the NYC area (where it is hard to find bad Italian food), this food seems bland & tasteless. If forced to go here, stick with their pizzas...or better yet go 200 yards further on Wickham & eat at Amici's
(2)Erin F.
get the "chicken bryan" its delicious! long waits, but overall great place
(4)Troy S.
Me and my wife went in for happy hours from 4 pm - 7 pm ! I asked the waiter does still happy hours and he said yes ! They had a table for us , the foods was not bad but not great .. After that were pay full price because they're told us happy hours just for another side in the restaurant ??? They're should tell us when we asked .. feel like a trick to get customers there !
(1)Christie D.
Food and service were both amazing as always! Megan got us hooked on the spicy sausage and lentil soup and she made sure our visit was perfect. The food was incredible as always. Our sirloin Marsala was perfectly cooked and the taste was out of this world! Definitely one of our places to go :)
(5)