This was undoubtedly my only trip to Carrabba's. I found nothing but disappointment in their restaurant. The server was adequate for a Denny's but not what I would expect in a cook to order restaurant. Even though we said we were first time visitors his only comment on the menu was it had been reworked months ago. We learned about specials and even happy hour (after we ordered) from overhearing a different server. The $25 chicken trio was three identical pieces of chicken with different cheese toppings. Not something to bring us back. My custom pizza had distinctly better toppings than Red Baron Frozen, but not enough that I'll drive back. In short, a moderately expensive waste of a meal time.
(1)
Knirps L.
I used to -LOVE- Carrabba's. Like, every time I got paid, I wanted to eat there. The marsala...to die for! The bread with the herb and balsamic mixed together, excellent! They did the simplest things so well, and it just grew from there. I had dishes I didn't like, but usually that was my error (bleu cheese, yuck...sneaks up on you). ...then last year(ish) they did this...remodel...and the first thing they did during the remodel was scrap the homemade bread and get the frozen, pre-sliced junk. Which, during my last visit, they were still using... Soggy, tasteless, junk! It wicks the oil and leaves the balsamic, or the other way around! There's nothing at all good about that bread. The atmosphere changed dramatically during the remodel, too. Before it, when I went there with my bff, my husband, or whatnot, we always picked a booth and it was sort of like we were all by ourselves. The high backs and dividers gave us privacy and the ability to talk to each other, the lights glowed softly and the smells wafted in waves as servers and other customers walked by. I loved it. Then...then they remodeled... They tore out most of the booths and tried to cram two 4-top tables in each of their places, as well as every spot that wasn't a walkway. They tore down dividers in an effort to 'open up' the space. The tables shrank, the seats shrank, and so did my desire to ever come back. When I went right after the remodel, I -hated- it. The backs of the booths only come up to your shoulders, and the entire meal was spent staring into a stranger's eyes. If you tried to break the stare and look away, you were looking into someone else's eyes. It got so LOUD! I could hear people whispering two tables away on the other side of the aisle. Apparently, someone complained loud enough (which, at the time could have just been a whisper) and they put in...like...grates on the back of every other booth. ...it didn't help at -all-. Oh, and they decided they would put a gigantic, low back, 8 or 9 top party table at the front of the restaurant. Who does that? Who wants to be hit in the face with a wall of people, sound, and deal with all that chewing and clanking right when they walk in? I'm sure it just sounds ridiculous for me to be going on and on like this, but really, it was my favorite restaurant and it was absolutely ruined... Anyway, on to my last visit specifically. We were sat at the 'booth' closest to the front doors, the one right next to the party table, and instantly wanted to leave...but I had been craving Carrabba's for months and forced myself to give the remodel a real try after being away so long. WRONG CHOICE! All night people stared at us. All night we were forced to stare at other people. We were probably the thinnest, youngest adults there, and we had to stifle ourselves from laughing at these 200-350lb people who were spilling over and seemingly teetering on the little dinky chairs. Which, before you start eating is fine...once you start eating and you have to look at 15 ass cracks throughout the meal, it becomes a little sickening... And of course half-way through the meal a party was sat behind us and the noise level sky-rocketed. We didn't even bother trying to talk to each other. The food was not as good as it used to be. The calamari was great, but the marinara was stock. I didn't even remember to ask for the other sauce until after we had finished. The meat was decent, but the sides were lacking. The cocktail was weak and not worth the price, and the tea was bad. Our server was new...like...bad new... He took AGES to do anything, and when he did he was an utter trainwreck. He repeatedly reached over our food and drinks, spilled balsamic when he took plates away, which took 15 mins to get his attention to clean up, at which point he SPRAYED THE TABLE while we were EATING. Fortunately my bf was quick enough to lift my daughter's food off the table, however ours was not so easy to move, and that was the end of the meal for us. I think that's the first time in my life I requested a manager. He was very understanding of our ......displeasure...with the table spraying, and gave us two gift cards. It was more than generous, and I really felt like he was genuine in his apology. Seems like a great manager. I will eventually go back to Carrabba's...but I don't know when, or where, that'll be.
(3)
Dave O.
For the most part I think Carrabba's is a consistence restaurant chain the service is usually the determining factor when it comes to having an okay experience or a great experience. This location definitely works hard to provide its customers with a great experience. We were very fortunate to have Sara providing our service tonight. Not only is she a really pleasant person she provided exceptional service from the moment we were seated, her sense of timing is absolutely spot on and her customer service skills made our entire dining experience a good one. We also had some interaction with the Manager he validated our initial feelings about this location it's evident the customer service here starts at the top. Any place of business can have small issues or miscues during any visit. I try to never review a business based solely on a mis-understanding or minor mistakes its how the issues are handled along with the food quality, presentation and timing that determines the overall experience. There are a lot of dishes Carrabba's excels at but its their ability to customize any of their offering to meet my expectations along with the attention to detail that makes this one of my favorites restaurant chains. The salads are served on cold plates, the bread is warm, the appetizers and entrees are served hot the drinks are replaced as needed. Isn't these all the things we care about?
(4)
Brian T.
The service was great first off, and they were especially busy and I did not wait so that is great. My complaint was the food taste.... I had a simple Classic Combination plate, Chicken Parmesan and Lasagne with Asparagus. With the exception of the Lasagne it all tasted burnt. (The bread as well!) I will not return to this Carrabba's and will be hard to sell of ever visiting Carrabba's again.
(2)
Lisbeth B.
We just ate there and when I explained that I needed a special diet for medical reasons they went out of their way to meet all my needs, I love this place. It's the best send the staff could definitely teach ORMC how to cook soup!!
(5)
Myra B.
I am never disappointed when dining here. I usually save this restaurant for special occasions or special friends because I enjoy the food so much. The sirloin Marsala cooked medium with garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes started with a cup of minestrone soup is my absolute favorite meal! (my mouth is watering as I type) Yum! Last night I veered off the norm and had the fettuccine Carrabba with mushrooms, peas, and pieces of melt in your mouth, cooked to perfection chicken. Delicious. This was also started with a cup of minestrone soup. My husband decided to have the chicken Marsala with garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes. We were there celebrating the 4th year anniversary of our first date! (Wow. A nice reason to dine at our favorite restaurant) If you have some extra money and feel like pampering yourself and someone you love I highly recommend this place. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is nice, and the staff are spot on. (I can't promise you will have a great server. People do have a bad day once in a while. It's called being human)
(5)
Briana C.
so-so I guess. Personally I like Olive Garden much better.
(3)
Carol S.
Food is always good bit not quite what it used to be . Have been coming here for over 10 years now and the portions have shrunk incredibly and the service isn't what it used to be. Prices sure haven't shrunk and it's like pulling teeth just to get bread. Cocktails are also lacking in the liquor unlike before. Came here tonight for the dessert featured on Next Great Baker last night Tuscan pineapple pound cake. It was burnt and almost no whipped cream. Runny whipped cream too.
(4)
Lucy J.
I stop by once in a while to pick up at the take out window, particularly if I have unexpected guests in town that I need to feed. Food is always reliable but recently something is going on with the order taking. The last 2 times we had issues with order errors. My friends picked it up and didn't check and their little daugther's order for chicken tenders came out wrong both times. Note to self- check the order and allow extra time in case it needs changing!
(4)
James P.
Ahh, another vacation, another Carrabba's... It was as you would expect from a Carrabba's. Good food, decent wine, and above-average service from a genuinely cheerful server (even when they had to clean up after a giant family with 4 kids left a huge mess). No bearing on the rating, but side note - if you order sauce to dip your free bread in, they charge you for it. How much? Probably not too much, maybe a dollar or so. But if you're the jagweed who sat in the booth behind us, raising hell because "y'all serve marsala, so why should I pay for it for my bread, I own a business HURF DURF," shut your dumb mouth and pay your dollar for your sauce. We don't care how well you take care of your customers down at the wholesale bathroom tile outlet. This fool ran our server and two managers through the ringer over a side of marsala until they gave him a card for a free appetizer on his next visit. "Y'all just saved a customer," he said. Right, because the waters and 25 minutes of grief you ordered make you two fools valuable customers. But our server kept cool dealing with them, so nice work.
(4)
Rachel B.
Great and friendly service, food came on a very timely manner. The meals we ordered were a little too salty though, but still tasty. Overall pretty good experience! Their bread and oil is so fresh, it's my favorite!
(4)
Ray N.
I'm definitely a fan - the service, food and atmosphere were, as usual, very good. I told the waitress that I was on a "daughter date night" with my youngest and she made absolutely sure the evening was impeccable! Thank you to Marina S. (who remembered those special dad date nights) and made ours special as well. The food was excellent, the bread basket was always full and the food was grilled perfectly! Well done, we're fans, and we will be back!! Thanks!
(4)
Monica A.
Great place to eat. I always get a pomegranate martini and pasta carabba. A soup or salad is included with the meal;which is a plus because in the Miami location they charge you $3. The servers are always nice.
(4)
Stacie S.
Usually a really great place, but had some trouble tonight. I went with a large group of people for my birthday dinner. I ordered a filet marsala and crab cake and asked for it to be prepared medium. I recieved it medium rare and asked for it to be refired to the correct temp. The server tried to tell me that it was almost medium and asked if I wanted it to be medium well, which I declined and asked for it to be prepared medium. After working in a fine dining restaurant for a year and being married to someone who has been a manager of one for almost ten, I am well aware of what a steak looks like (or at least should) when it has been prepared correctly to each temp. I received my steak after everyone was almost done with their meal and it, as I feared it would be after waiting for so long, was almost well done. Very disappointed. At least they took it off the bill, but this was not the way I was hoping to spend my birthday. So, no great steak dinner, no birthday dessert. Not even a happy birthday when the server "checked" my ID when I ordered a peach sangria. :(
(3)
Roger F.
Went here for our first cocoa beach meal, what a mistake. First time 3 of the group every went to a Carrabba's. All said ,, not again. Just plain boring meals. From after looking over the menu and ordering was told nope, no pizza , oven broke. Reorder. I had the homemade meatball sandwich. Had maybe one tasteless meatball chopped up on soggy bread. Bad ,real bad.
Another big-box restaurant that's overrated, but still good. I like to think of it as an upscale Olive Garden. I call it overrated since the wait is much longer than it should be for the quality of food. Don't get me wrong, the Spiedino Di Mare was delicious and the lobster ravioli my wife had was very good too. Even the calmari was cooked well. It's just that the meal wasn't *really* worth the wait, which I guess is why we don't go often.
(3)
Chris D.
10 minute wait, right in in Cocoa beach, on a Friday night, food was good service was good. When in this area again will return.
(5)
Brandon G.
Awesome day out on the beach with family. What better way to top off the day than with dinner @ Carrabba's? This place is awesome! Everyone working here seems to be very nice, welcoming and knowledgeable. Our server was no exception. He did a great job at taking care of ALL of us and making sure we had everything we needed or wanted. The food was VERY good! I had the Chicken Parmesan Panini. I highly recommend this dish. I am a big sandwich and panini fan and this one really hit the spot. If you really want to be blown away...try the Chicken Bryan...AMAZING!!! The goat cheese on top just melts in your mouth. This place is a little on the pricey side and they were out of several items including: lasagna and ravioli. Despite the last couple of things, I would definitely go back to Carrabba's again.
(5)
Don C.
have had Dinner there many times always great dinning. Always leave wanting to come again.
(5)
Ray T.
After a long day of airline travel and TSA annoyance from Philly to Orlando, this was a perfect dinner stop before the final destination of Cocoa Beach. My wife was sporting a $50 Discover rebate gift card, and it was our first time eaiting at a Carrabba's. We were a party of 7, but on this Saturday night we were seated instantly despite the busy dinner rush. Wow! We expected a 20 minute wait, but nope, 'come this way"! Food and service were both good. Lots of fresh bread refills, instant water glass reloads, friendly server. I had an Italian Salad (a tad too much Italian dressing for my taste, but good) and Veal Marsala. I think it was good also, but my head cold knocked 50% of my taste buds out of commission. Atmosphere was lively but not loud...probably the same atmosphere you'd find at any other Carrabbas. Being able to see the kitchen at work was kind of cool, and the rest was nicely decorated for Christmas. I'd definately go back! Overall, a good experience. Worst part was trying to get going eastbound to Cocoa Beach!
(4)
Joe S.
The place was clean, the service was good and the food was very good. This place is much better than olive garden. If you want to go to a chain restaurant that gets it right go here. I was satisfied on every level. If you expect home made exquisite Italian food then you may be disappointed. One of the best chain restaurants I have been to.
(4)
Lucy M.
First time I ate at a Carrabbas. My chicken soup was very tasty with a bit of spice. My spinach ravioli was delicious loved the tomato cream sauce. We had the calamari for appetizer loved the breading and marinara sauce. Tiramisu was perfect! Better than Olive Garden.
(4)
Mike B.
The food wasn't bad, but nothing special. Living off their advertising. Dinner bread undercooked. Small portions. Waiter was only partially attentive. Very Average.
(3)
Seth R.
I never did have quite the taste for Italian cuisine, but after I came in this one, I just couldn't stop coming. I started of with a delightful little appeteaser and moved on up into full on entree ecstasy. The climax of my night was the dessert. I've never had better. I have to say that Carrabba's Italian Grill is my new mistress.
(5)
Chris C.
As Yogi once said "Nobody goes there any more, it's too crowded". Well, finally we chose an evening (Thursday, 8PM) where there wasn't a wait. Carrabba's is a sprawling place. As you enter, the bar is to the left, and further down to the left is the grill. There are booths and tables, and plenty of room. I know Carrabba's is a chain, but they really do try hard, and the staff is well-trained and attentive. We had the "zucchinei fritte" for an appetizer,which is addictive and recommended . The bread is very fresh and delicious. They have liquor, and a decent wine list. Decent AND reasonable. The chicken marsala here is very,very good. Soup or salad is included . This is a lively place with very good service and good food - 4 stars.
(4)
Waylon D.
Best place to eat in Merritt Island! Call ahead if you can
(5)
Billy G.
I've enjoyed comig to this Carrabba's for years and they never seem to fail me. Bon Appettito!!!!!!!!!!!!
(4)
Marie D.
The service is SUPER slow. Always. There's no way around it, I think they must be trained that way. It's a chain so the food is always exactly the same, the flavors are decent, the idea is good. However like several other reviewers I have gotten sick from them for the last time. We went on July 4, I had the Pollo Rosa Maria and zucchini. I made it from the restaurant to Riverside park, halfway through the fireworks I was violently ill and remained so for the entire night. My husband was ill the last time we went. Never going there again.
Yay!!!! I cannot believe we did not come into this restaurant sooner. When we first moved from New York, our Floridian friends took us to eat at the one in Altamonte springs and for some reason I got sick. After that we never came back. A few weeks ago we were starving and my son suggested to have lunch there since we were passing by one. OMG! We asked ourselves why didn't we try it again. I ordered the grilled chicken, it was juicy, flavorful and yummy. It came accompanied by some pasta which I ordered it with vodka sauce and veggies. I thought the veggies were those plain boiled veggies, but not these ones, they were seasoned in a sauce, tasty, spicy and yummy sauce. My husband ordered the grilled scallops and shrimp, he loved them. Even plain spaghetti in marinara sauce that my children ordered were out of this world. They have a variety of pasta that you can choose from. The bread was warm, unlike other places that serve it cold, hard like a rock. The staff is friendly and perky, very knowledgeable. The atmosphere makes you feel like you're in Italy. They also have a full bar and games were shown on big screen TVs for those who drink and like games. In conclusion, Carrabbas just earned another regular customer. We eat out every single day, please keep up the great food and service.
(5)
Mike S.
considering my years of experience working in multiple carrabbas kitchens....and alot of others as well... im still impressed that this is one of the only corporate restaurants that still actually make everything fresh....!!!! which is impressive...and is ran amazingly also (great systems in place) .. so i will continue to frequent and order my favorite.... which is the TAG PIC PAC W/ CHICKEN MMMMMMMMMM now im hungry....... and when ever its around the sausage & lentil soup (which this location seems to never have) SO IF U WANT SOME YUMMY FRESH PREPARED FOOD HIT UP CARRABBAS IF U WANT FROZEN PREPACKED ,PREMADE,PROCESSED GARBAGE go enjoy olive garden,red lobster,longhorn, CRAPablees, ruby tuesday,joes crab shack, or ENTER GARBAGE CORPORATE RESTAURANT HERE................................!
(4)
Anthony C.
Great food, there 15.00 deal is a good deal for the amount of food you get is so much that you could split it if you wanted too. So go in and check it out but you better call ahead if you plan to go on the weekend.
(4)
Scott A.
Went last night. Horrible experience. Bad service and worse food. Wife ordered house salad. Chopped up lettuce with 10/12 pieces of jullianed carrots. I don't care what dressing you put on it that is not a salad. Her mussel dish with shrimp had the shrimp with no taste - terrible. There sauce leaves a bad aftertaste and the soup was barely warm. A Big Bust.
(1)
Mary M.
Had dinner here last Friday and it was packed...waiting room only! Looked mighty popular and now I know why. We had calamari -- not much to speak of and a bowl of mussels which were to die for. There was a touch of thai basil in the sauce and boy was that a winner. Make sure to order it from the appetizer menu and skip the rest of the stuff. There are more than enough mussels for a meal!
(4)
Bob C.
Great food, more than generous amounts and a reasonable price, great Italian atmosphere.
(5)
Tim M.
Surprised that there was just a short wait on a Saturday for a table. After being seated, a long wait ensued until around minute 11 or 12 when I grabbed one of the many wait staff that had walked by and ignored us. A manager showed up, and I explained that we had been completely ignored. Within a couple of minutes, a waiter not assigned to our area came and took our drink and meal orders. Complimentary appetizers were provided as we waited, and our salads and subsequently our meals showed up very promptly. Great service once they woke up to the fact that we were there. Food was excellent.
(4)
Angie M.
love the food, our fav! I have not niticed one being better or worse than another, so quality spretty stable! Its always a hit, kids too.
(5)
Bruce R.
It gets no better than this!!!!!! I think this place is better than the Melbourne one. I have never had a bad meal here.
Avoid this Carrabba's. My wife and I went here just once, and the service was so slow she tried to get up and get her own drink refill. We were stuck there over an hour to get our food, and both of us left with food poisoning and were up most of the night throwing up.
(1)
Susan P.
We considered this a good find on our vacation. I liked my salad a lot, pasta was OK, bruschetta was tasty, kids were really happy with their pizza (and the crayons and dough the waitress brought). Our waitress was great, friendly and attentive with out being fake or hovering over us. It seemed to be a really popular, but it is huge, so there wasn't much of a wait.
(4)
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Address :60 Palmetto Ave
Merritt Island, FL, 32953
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free 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.
Mark P.
This was undoubtedly my only trip to Carrabba's. I found nothing but disappointment in their restaurant. The server was adequate for a Denny's but not what I would expect in a cook to order restaurant. Even though we said we were first time visitors his only comment on the menu was it had been reworked months ago. We learned about specials and even happy hour (after we ordered) from overhearing a different server. The $25 chicken trio was three identical pieces of chicken with different cheese toppings. Not something to bring us back. My custom pizza had distinctly better toppings than Red Baron Frozen, but not enough that I'll drive back. In short, a moderately expensive waste of a meal time.
(1)Knirps L.
I used to -LOVE- Carrabba's. Like, every time I got paid, I wanted to eat there. The marsala...to die for! The bread with the herb and balsamic mixed together, excellent! They did the simplest things so well, and it just grew from there. I had dishes I didn't like, but usually that was my error (bleu cheese, yuck...sneaks up on you). ...then last year(ish) they did this...remodel...and the first thing they did during the remodel was scrap the homemade bread and get the frozen, pre-sliced junk. Which, during my last visit, they were still using... Soggy, tasteless, junk! It wicks the oil and leaves the balsamic, or the other way around! There's nothing at all good about that bread. The atmosphere changed dramatically during the remodel, too. Before it, when I went there with my bff, my husband, or whatnot, we always picked a booth and it was sort of like we were all by ourselves. The high backs and dividers gave us privacy and the ability to talk to each other, the lights glowed softly and the smells wafted in waves as servers and other customers walked by. I loved it. Then...then they remodeled... They tore out most of the booths and tried to cram two 4-top tables in each of their places, as well as every spot that wasn't a walkway. They tore down dividers in an effort to 'open up' the space. The tables shrank, the seats shrank, and so did my desire to ever come back. When I went right after the remodel, I -hated- it. The backs of the booths only come up to your shoulders, and the entire meal was spent staring into a stranger's eyes. If you tried to break the stare and look away, you were looking into someone else's eyes. It got so LOUD! I could hear people whispering two tables away on the other side of the aisle. Apparently, someone complained loud enough (which, at the time could have just been a whisper) and they put in...like...grates on the back of every other booth. ...it didn't help at -all-. Oh, and they decided they would put a gigantic, low back, 8 or 9 top party table at the front of the restaurant. Who does that? Who wants to be hit in the face with a wall of people, sound, and deal with all that chewing and clanking right when they walk in? I'm sure it just sounds ridiculous for me to be going on and on like this, but really, it was my favorite restaurant and it was absolutely ruined... Anyway, on to my last visit specifically. We were sat at the 'booth' closest to the front doors, the one right next to the party table, and instantly wanted to leave...but I had been craving Carrabba's for months and forced myself to give the remodel a real try after being away so long. WRONG CHOICE! All night people stared at us. All night we were forced to stare at other people. We were probably the thinnest, youngest adults there, and we had to stifle ourselves from laughing at these 200-350lb people who were spilling over and seemingly teetering on the little dinky chairs. Which, before you start eating is fine...once you start eating and you have to look at 15 ass cracks throughout the meal, it becomes a little sickening... And of course half-way through the meal a party was sat behind us and the noise level sky-rocketed. We didn't even bother trying to talk to each other. The food was not as good as it used to be. The calamari was great, but the marinara was stock. I didn't even remember to ask for the other sauce until after we had finished. The meat was decent, but the sides were lacking. The cocktail was weak and not worth the price, and the tea was bad. Our server was new...like...bad new... He took AGES to do anything, and when he did he was an utter trainwreck. He repeatedly reached over our food and drinks, spilled balsamic when he took plates away, which took 15 mins to get his attention to clean up, at which point he SPRAYED THE TABLE while we were EATING. Fortunately my bf was quick enough to lift my daughter's food off the table, however ours was not so easy to move, and that was the end of the meal for us. I think that's the first time in my life I requested a manager. He was very understanding of our ......displeasure...with the table spraying, and gave us two gift cards. It was more than generous, and I really felt like he was genuine in his apology. Seems like a great manager. I will eventually go back to Carrabba's...but I don't know when, or where, that'll be.
(3)Dave O.
For the most part I think Carrabba's is a consistence restaurant chain the service is usually the determining factor when it comes to having an okay experience or a great experience. This location definitely works hard to provide its customers with a great experience. We were very fortunate to have Sara providing our service tonight. Not only is she a really pleasant person she provided exceptional service from the moment we were seated, her sense of timing is absolutely spot on and her customer service skills made our entire dining experience a good one. We also had some interaction with the Manager he validated our initial feelings about this location it's evident the customer service here starts at the top. Any place of business can have small issues or miscues during any visit. I try to never review a business based solely on a mis-understanding or minor mistakes its how the issues are handled along with the food quality, presentation and timing that determines the overall experience. There are a lot of dishes Carrabba's excels at but its their ability to customize any of their offering to meet my expectations along with the attention to detail that makes this one of my favorites restaurant chains. The salads are served on cold plates, the bread is warm, the appetizers and entrees are served hot the drinks are replaced as needed. Isn't these all the things we care about?
(4)Brian T.
The service was great first off, and they were especially busy and I did not wait so that is great. My complaint was the food taste.... I had a simple Classic Combination plate, Chicken Parmesan and Lasagne with Asparagus. With the exception of the Lasagne it all tasted burnt. (The bread as well!) I will not return to this Carrabba's and will be hard to sell of ever visiting Carrabba's again.
(2)Lisbeth B.
We just ate there and when I explained that I needed a special diet for medical reasons they went out of their way to meet all my needs, I love this place. It's the best send the staff could definitely teach ORMC how to cook soup!!
(5)Myra B.
I am never disappointed when dining here. I usually save this restaurant for special occasions or special friends because I enjoy the food so much. The sirloin Marsala cooked medium with garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes started with a cup of minestrone soup is my absolute favorite meal! (my mouth is watering as I type) Yum! Last night I veered off the norm and had the fettuccine Carrabba with mushrooms, peas, and pieces of melt in your mouth, cooked to perfection chicken. Delicious. This was also started with a cup of minestrone soup. My husband decided to have the chicken Marsala with garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes. We were there celebrating the 4th year anniversary of our first date! (Wow. A nice reason to dine at our favorite restaurant) If you have some extra money and feel like pampering yourself and someone you love I highly recommend this place. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is nice, and the staff are spot on. (I can't promise you will have a great server. People do have a bad day once in a while. It's called being human)
(5)Briana C.
so-so I guess. Personally I like Olive Garden much better.
(3)Carol S.
Food is always good bit not quite what it used to be . Have been coming here for over 10 years now and the portions have shrunk incredibly and the service isn't what it used to be. Prices sure haven't shrunk and it's like pulling teeth just to get bread. Cocktails are also lacking in the liquor unlike before. Came here tonight for the dessert featured on Next Great Baker last night Tuscan pineapple pound cake. It was burnt and almost no whipped cream. Runny whipped cream too.
(4)Lucy J.
I stop by once in a while to pick up at the take out window, particularly if I have unexpected guests in town that I need to feed. Food is always reliable but recently something is going on with the order taking. The last 2 times we had issues with order errors. My friends picked it up and didn't check and their little daugther's order for chicken tenders came out wrong both times. Note to self- check the order and allow extra time in case it needs changing!
(4)James P.
Ahh, another vacation, another Carrabba's... It was as you would expect from a Carrabba's. Good food, decent wine, and above-average service from a genuinely cheerful server (even when they had to clean up after a giant family with 4 kids left a huge mess). No bearing on the rating, but side note - if you order sauce to dip your free bread in, they charge you for it. How much? Probably not too much, maybe a dollar or so. But if you're the jagweed who sat in the booth behind us, raising hell because "y'all serve marsala, so why should I pay for it for my bread, I own a business HURF DURF," shut your dumb mouth and pay your dollar for your sauce. We don't care how well you take care of your customers down at the wholesale bathroom tile outlet. This fool ran our server and two managers through the ringer over a side of marsala until they gave him a card for a free appetizer on his next visit. "Y'all just saved a customer," he said. Right, because the waters and 25 minutes of grief you ordered make you two fools valuable customers. But our server kept cool dealing with them, so nice work.
(4)Rachel B.
Great and friendly service, food came on a very timely manner. The meals we ordered were a little too salty though, but still tasty. Overall pretty good experience! Their bread and oil is so fresh, it's my favorite!
(4)Ray N.
I'm definitely a fan - the service, food and atmosphere were, as usual, very good. I told the waitress that I was on a "daughter date night" with my youngest and she made absolutely sure the evening was impeccable! Thank you to Marina S. (who remembered those special dad date nights) and made ours special as well. The food was excellent, the bread basket was always full and the food was grilled perfectly! Well done, we're fans, and we will be back!! Thanks!
(4)Monica A.
Great place to eat. I always get a pomegranate martini and pasta carabba. A soup or salad is included with the meal;which is a plus because in the Miami location they charge you $3. The servers are always nice.
(4)Stacie S.
Usually a really great place, but had some trouble tonight. I went with a large group of people for my birthday dinner. I ordered a filet marsala and crab cake and asked for it to be prepared medium. I recieved it medium rare and asked for it to be refired to the correct temp. The server tried to tell me that it was almost medium and asked if I wanted it to be medium well, which I declined and asked for it to be prepared medium. After working in a fine dining restaurant for a year and being married to someone who has been a manager of one for almost ten, I am well aware of what a steak looks like (or at least should) when it has been prepared correctly to each temp. I received my steak after everyone was almost done with their meal and it, as I feared it would be after waiting for so long, was almost well done. Very disappointed. At least they took it off the bill, but this was not the way I was hoping to spend my birthday. So, no great steak dinner, no birthday dessert. Not even a happy birthday when the server "checked" my ID when I ordered a peach sangria. :(
(3)Roger F.
Went here for our first cocoa beach meal, what a mistake. First time 3 of the group every went to a Carrabba's. All said ,, not again. Just plain boring meals. From after looking over the menu and ordering was told nope, no pizza , oven broke. Reorder. I had the homemade meatball sandwich. Had maybe one tasteless meatball chopped up on soggy bread. Bad ,real bad.
(1)José A.
Another big-box restaurant that's overrated, but still good. I like to think of it as an upscale Olive Garden. I call it overrated since the wait is much longer than it should be for the quality of food. Don't get me wrong, the Spiedino Di Mare was delicious and the lobster ravioli my wife had was very good too. Even the calmari was cooked well. It's just that the meal wasn't *really* worth the wait, which I guess is why we don't go often.
(3)Chris D.
10 minute wait, right in in Cocoa beach, on a Friday night, food was good service was good. When in this area again will return.
(5)Brandon G.
Awesome day out on the beach with family. What better way to top off the day than with dinner @ Carrabba's? This place is awesome! Everyone working here seems to be very nice, welcoming and knowledgeable. Our server was no exception. He did a great job at taking care of ALL of us and making sure we had everything we needed or wanted. The food was VERY good! I had the Chicken Parmesan Panini. I highly recommend this dish. I am a big sandwich and panini fan and this one really hit the spot. If you really want to be blown away...try the Chicken Bryan...AMAZING!!! The goat cheese on top just melts in your mouth. This place is a little on the pricey side and they were out of several items including: lasagna and ravioli. Despite the last couple of things, I would definitely go back to Carrabba's again.
(5)Don C.
have had Dinner there many times always great dinning. Always leave wanting to come again.
(5)Ray T.
After a long day of airline travel and TSA annoyance from Philly to Orlando, this was a perfect dinner stop before the final destination of Cocoa Beach. My wife was sporting a $50 Discover rebate gift card, and it was our first time eaiting at a Carrabba's. We were a party of 7, but on this Saturday night we were seated instantly despite the busy dinner rush. Wow! We expected a 20 minute wait, but nope, 'come this way"! Food and service were both good. Lots of fresh bread refills, instant water glass reloads, friendly server. I had an Italian Salad (a tad too much Italian dressing for my taste, but good) and Veal Marsala. I think it was good also, but my head cold knocked 50% of my taste buds out of commission. Atmosphere was lively but not loud...probably the same atmosphere you'd find at any other Carrabbas. Being able to see the kitchen at work was kind of cool, and the rest was nicely decorated for Christmas. I'd definately go back! Overall, a good experience. Worst part was trying to get going eastbound to Cocoa Beach!
(4)Joe S.
The place was clean, the service was good and the food was very good. This place is much better than olive garden. If you want to go to a chain restaurant that gets it right go here. I was satisfied on every level. If you expect home made exquisite Italian food then you may be disappointed. One of the best chain restaurants I have been to.
(4)Lucy M.
First time I ate at a Carrabbas. My chicken soup was very tasty with a bit of spice. My spinach ravioli was delicious loved the tomato cream sauce. We had the calamari for appetizer loved the breading and marinara sauce. Tiramisu was perfect! Better than Olive Garden.
(4)Mike B.
The food wasn't bad, but nothing special. Living off their advertising. Dinner bread undercooked. Small portions. Waiter was only partially attentive. Very Average.
(3)Seth R.
I never did have quite the taste for Italian cuisine, but after I came in this one, I just couldn't stop coming. I started of with a delightful little appeteaser and moved on up into full on entree ecstasy. The climax of my night was the dessert. I've never had better. I have to say that Carrabba's Italian Grill is my new mistress.
(5)Chris C.
As Yogi once said "Nobody goes there any more, it's too crowded". Well, finally we chose an evening (Thursday, 8PM) where there wasn't a wait. Carrabba's is a sprawling place. As you enter, the bar is to the left, and further down to the left is the grill. There are booths and tables, and plenty of room. I know Carrabba's is a chain, but they really do try hard, and the staff is well-trained and attentive. We had the "zucchinei fritte" for an appetizer,which is addictive and recommended . The bread is very fresh and delicious. They have liquor, and a decent wine list. Decent AND reasonable. The chicken marsala here is very,very good. Soup or salad is included . This is a lively place with very good service and good food - 4 stars.
(4)Waylon D.
Best place to eat in Merritt Island! Call ahead if you can
(5)Billy G.
I've enjoyed comig to this Carrabba's for years and they never seem to fail me. Bon Appettito!!!!!!!!!!!!
(4)Marie D.
The service is SUPER slow. Always. There's no way around it, I think they must be trained that way. It's a chain so the food is always exactly the same, the flavors are decent, the idea is good. However like several other reviewers I have gotten sick from them for the last time. We went on July 4, I had the Pollo Rosa Maria and zucchini. I made it from the restaurant to Riverside park, halfway through the fireworks I was violently ill and remained so for the entire night. My husband was ill the last time we went. Never going there again.
(1)CARMEN R.
My fiancé was in the mood for sushi, but I wasn't so he decided to stop at the Carraba's Italian Grill in Merritt Island. We had been to the one in Orlando, so it was our second visit to a Carraba's Italian Grill. My fiancé order a beer and I ask if they could make me a mudslide even when it wasn't on the menu. They made me the mudslide and it was the best mudslide I ever had. It was so good. It was perfect. The service was good and the food was good. I recommend this restaurant to anybody.
(4)Jennifer L.
Yay!!!! I cannot believe we did not come into this restaurant sooner. When we first moved from New York, our Floridian friends took us to eat at the one in Altamonte springs and for some reason I got sick. After that we never came back. A few weeks ago we were starving and my son suggested to have lunch there since we were passing by one. OMG! We asked ourselves why didn't we try it again. I ordered the grilled chicken, it was juicy, flavorful and yummy. It came accompanied by some pasta which I ordered it with vodka sauce and veggies. I thought the veggies were those plain boiled veggies, but not these ones, they were seasoned in a sauce, tasty, spicy and yummy sauce. My husband ordered the grilled scallops and shrimp, he loved them. Even plain spaghetti in marinara sauce that my children ordered were out of this world. They have a variety of pasta that you can choose from. The bread was warm, unlike other places that serve it cold, hard like a rock. The staff is friendly and perky, very knowledgeable. The atmosphere makes you feel like you're in Italy. They also have a full bar and games were shown on big screen TVs for those who drink and like games. In conclusion, Carrabbas just earned another regular customer. We eat out every single day, please keep up the great food and service.
(5)Mike S.
considering my years of experience working in multiple carrabbas kitchens....and alot of others as well... im still impressed that this is one of the only corporate restaurants that still actually make everything fresh....!!!! which is impressive...and is ran amazingly also (great systems in place) .. so i will continue to frequent and order my favorite.... which is the TAG PIC PAC W/ CHICKEN MMMMMMMMMM now im hungry....... and when ever its around the sausage & lentil soup (which this location seems to never have) SO IF U WANT SOME YUMMY FRESH PREPARED FOOD HIT UP CARRABBAS IF U WANT FROZEN PREPACKED ,PREMADE,PROCESSED GARBAGE go enjoy olive garden,red lobster,longhorn, CRAPablees, ruby tuesday,joes crab shack, or ENTER GARBAGE CORPORATE RESTAURANT HERE................................!
(4)Anthony C.
Great food, there 15.00 deal is a good deal for the amount of food you get is so much that you could split it if you wanted too. So go in and check it out but you better call ahead if you plan to go on the weekend.
(4)Scott A.
Went last night. Horrible experience. Bad service and worse food. Wife ordered house salad. Chopped up lettuce with 10/12 pieces of jullianed carrots. I don't care what dressing you put on it that is not a salad. Her mussel dish with shrimp had the shrimp with no taste - terrible. There sauce leaves a bad aftertaste and the soup was barely warm. A Big Bust.
(1)Mary M.
Had dinner here last Friday and it was packed...waiting room only! Looked mighty popular and now I know why. We had calamari -- not much to speak of and a bowl of mussels which were to die for. There was a touch of thai basil in the sauce and boy was that a winner. Make sure to order it from the appetizer menu and skip the rest of the stuff. There are more than enough mussels for a meal!
(4)Bob C.
Great food, more than generous amounts and a reasonable price, great Italian atmosphere.
(5)Tim M.
Surprised that there was just a short wait on a Saturday for a table. After being seated, a long wait ensued until around minute 11 or 12 when I grabbed one of the many wait staff that had walked by and ignored us. A manager showed up, and I explained that we had been completely ignored. Within a couple of minutes, a waiter not assigned to our area came and took our drink and meal orders. Complimentary appetizers were provided as we waited, and our salads and subsequently our meals showed up very promptly. Great service once they woke up to the fact that we were there. Food was excellent.
(4)Angie M.
love the food, our fav! I have not niticed one being better or worse than another, so quality spretty stable! Its always a hit, kids too.
(5)Bruce R.
It gets no better than this!!!!!! I think this place is better than the Melbourne one. I have never had a bad meal here.
(5)Gloria M.
Carrabba's, less than 8 miles from my home, is one of my favorite local restaurant. Not only is the food consistently good here but the friendly manager, the wait staff, chefs, bartenders & hostesses will make this eatery become your favorite, too. I've been dining here regularly since is opened many years ago. There are so many choices on the menu. Our favorite Antipasti is Cozze in Bianco, $9. It is steamed Mussels in a delicate white wine, basil, lemon butter sauce-simply delicious. My two sisters don't even like mussels but they freely dip their bread into this sauce. We found the recipe on the Internet & make it ourselves at home, sh-sh-sh, it's our little secret. We order the large size as an entrée sometimes. My other favorite is Calamari with Marinara Sauce, $7.90. If you like spicy, order it with Spicy Italian Peppers & Lemon Butter sauce. There are 6 other appetizers to try or order the Antipasti Plate and sample three together. There are homemade soups and several salad choices, too under the Cucina Casuale selections. Entrée selections are too numerous to list. There are wood-fired Pizzas (or build your own) and Panini which for some reason I have never tried. The 13 Pasta Dishes are served with soup or salad. My favorite is Pasta Weesie, $15.70 - Fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp sautéed in a garlic, lemon butter white wine sauce with sautéed mushrooms & scallions. I like it serve al denti. My husband likes the Pasta Sostanza which can also be served with chicken or shrimp. If I'm ordering from the Wood-Burning Grill selections (8) as I did on this visit, it is usually Pollo Rossa Maria- chicken stuffed with fontina & prosciutto, topped with mushrooms & a basil lemon butter sauce. This is a Carrabba's Favorite, by the way. My husband and son love the Marsala selections (4) -Sirloin , $16.90 or Pork Chops, 16.50 especially. When I can't make up my mind, I'll order from the Classics & Combination (5.) When I skip an appetizer, I will order the Chicken Trio - Bryan (another Carrabba's Favorite), Marsala & Rosa Maria, $19.50. There are several seafood choices, grilled Salmon, Tilapia or Spiedino Di Mare (shrimp, scallops or both) and ribs, veal, steak, too. Grill, Marsala & Combination selections are served with homemade soup or salad & a choice of mashed potatoes, vegetable or the delicious Cavatappi Amatriciana, which I love & always order. My favorite Side Salad is the Italian one, served chilled on a chilled plate with lots of delicious olives, tomatoes, onions & carrots on mixed greens. The warm bread served with meals and the special herbs & EVOL served along with it is wonderful. We always request a second helping of it. On rare occasions, I'll order from the dessert, Dolci menu (6) usually when I have a coupon. Tiramisu or Cannoli are my favorites. Very popular are the mini-desserts made fresh daily for only $2.50 each. There is a Kids menu, too. Although the restaurant is always busy, just call ahead & let them know you are on your way and how many are in your party. They will add your name to the list and save you waiting time. The ambiance of this location is lovely and inviting. Everyone is so welcoming and tries to please. It is fun to sit by or nearby the open kitchen & watch the chefs working their masterpieces. The bar is very popular & busy. We often order Take-Out from this location. Order Online, park in the designated Take-Out parking area & have it delivered right to you car door. Or, dine alfresco at this location.
(5)Scott S.
Avoid this Carrabba's. My wife and I went here just once, and the service was so slow she tried to get up and get her own drink refill. We were stuck there over an hour to get our food, and both of us left with food poisoning and were up most of the night throwing up.
(1)Susan P.
We considered this a good find on our vacation. I liked my salad a lot, pasta was OK, bruschetta was tasty, kids were really happy with their pizza (and the crayons and dough the waitress brought). Our waitress was great, friendly and attentive with out being fake or hovering over us. It seemed to be a really popular, but it is huge, so there wasn't much of a wait.
(4)