Had chicken enchilada pasta. It was good. Not great. And a big portion too. I generally am not a fan of Semolina. Never had anything fantastic, but never had anything bad either. Decent enough for what it is
(3)
Jude P.
Oh Semolina's... I'd like to give you a better review but but... I just can't. It kinda sucks the reviews can't at least do half's but it's whatever. Decided to go there post/pre movie (sold out) so instead of traveling, me & a date decided to go there since it was close and it beat out Twin peaks for obvious reason ;) haha The staff I would rate a 4... they were very good, always smiling, and accepting so it was a high plus for me. The food & drinks on the other hand was a different story. I had a stormy cosmo... which was ok but a little on the sugary side and left me no buzz, mind you, the drink I had upstairs at the movie theatre although measured, left a nice buzz with minutes so I definitely won't be coming here for drinks. Also, my date's drink said by her and after a taste was too sugary and felt syrupish. Next the meal which I had the Chicken Marsala... again, never again. Sorry it tasted like the sauce was made from a kit. The chicken itself was the best part... tender, and felt like it can mesh with no matter what sauce you put on it. And the linguine tasted a bit overcooked... and I'm a big fan of pasta but this wasn't cutting it, unless it was like half price or something. Aside from that, the prices were cool, and although there weren't many people, it was clean... and to plug, the staff was cool. Sorry but there's not much of a reason to come back unless I had a coupon and was coming back from work, but that's it. Sorry Semolina...
(2)
Kelly H.
I recall back in the time before, long before, (that is, before the 12 or so years I spent in the Northeast) that Semolina was a nice little local chain with some interesting pasta dishes. Fast forward to the present - there is now only one location that remains open and it's in Clearview Mall. I can see why. I'm not going to waste a lot of time here - just cut to the chase: The Pros: It's in a good location if you looking for a casual dinner before or after a movie at the Clearview AMC. The prices are reasonable -both the food and the wines by the glass. Service is pretty fast - if you let your server know that you are in a bit of a hurry to make it to the movie on time he or she will do what they can to expedite your meal. Also, the bread is pretty good. The Cons: While the food is eatable it ain't that good. It's a few notches below other chain Italian restaurants. The somewhat creative pasta dishes of the past have been replaced with some rather generic creations and standard red sauce Italian. Everything tends to underwhelm. Bottom Line: it's not bad for a quick bite before or after the movie. Otherwise, you may be better off going elsewhere.
(2)
Brad B.
The place was clean and had some a lot going on. The nachos were some of the best I have ever had just the right amount of cheese and meat. The kids meal were big and looked very good. My salad was nothing special but it was ok. The service was no better then average but no worse. I will try this place again after I try all the other places around it.
(4)
Rooba C.
This place has so much potential but the food is not at all what it used to be :(
(1)
Ac A.
Excellent try the Shrimp Roban or the Greek Salad. Yummmmm
(4)
Kori M.
Let me start by saying that when I lived in New Orleans I used to eat at Semolina regularly. So of course I was very excited to go there during my last visit. The place was empty when we first go there. We must have brought the crowd in because it began to fill up shortly after we arrived. Almost 10 minutes passed before anyone came to greet us and take our drink orders. I saw some people sitting for an even longer period of time waiting for someone to come to the table. My mother ordered coffee which the server claimed was just brewed yet it wasn't hot. So she took it to the back microwaved it and brought it back. (Anyone who is a serious coffee drinker can tell) The server also referred to my 57 year old mother and myself who is 27 as "girls". "Would you girls like anything else?" Of course the server had to be about 21 herself. I will say that she saw the look on my face and apologized which I appreciated. Unfortunately there was no salvaging this experience. I was truly appalled that the service was so horrible. What made it even worse was when my mother asked for another cup of coffee after dinner, the server took my mother's cup off the table brought it to the back, refilled it and brought it back out. The same cup, same dirty, napkin under the cup. I mean it was really appalling. I will say that the food was as delicious as I remembered which is unfortunate because due to the service I will not be returning to this location.
(2)
Dawn C.
I always knew that Semolina's makes an amazing Caesar salad. Their dressing is so tangy. And each leaf of romaine is coated in it. I also ordered one of my favorites: Shrimp Roban. I was going to complement my entree with a small Caesar salad, however, I was told that lunch entrees are served with a vegetable. They offered Spinach sauteed in butter. My Roban was seasoned perfectly and the spinach was delicious! Never underestimate the lunch menu or the quality and taste of the items. Visit Semolina's at Clearview Mall in Metairie, LA soon!
(4)
Lisa D.
Not happy with service tonight. Our waiter didn't check in on our regularly and kitchen was S L O W! My chicken enchilada pasta was great as well as my bread pudding. I was just not pleased with the server or the slow kitchen & I'm usually not one to complain about that kind of stuff.
(2)
Guy R.
At least some of Semolina's N.O. locations were once good, but this location seems consistently a waste of time and money. Service was excellent, but that can't salvage the fact that 4 of 4 dinners were uniformly uninteresting. Their Pad Thai (other location?) was excellent years ago, now it's just sad. We had 2 for 1 coupons, and it was still not worth it.
(2)
Geovanni V.
Good family lunch. Always a good spot to come and hang out with Ketra and lowercase g. Maybe not the best pasta in the world. But very tasty and enough to put a smile on everyone's face. Always a family favorite.
(4)
Shercole K.
I love spending quiet time with my mommy (Yes, I call her my mommy) over dinner at Semolina's. Good family location. I see many families even with kids in here all the time. We normally go in the 5/6pm hours and its extremely quiet and nowhere near crowded so it's perfect time to talk and enjoy a pretty good meal. Every time I go I pretty much order the same thing. Garlic Cheesy Bread and Chicken Parmesan. The portions are hardcore so expect to have a meal for two days seriously. It's just really a great hearty meal. I love the angel hair pasta and the flavors incorporated in their meals. There bread pudding is also hardcore. You probably won't survive the huge chunk offered up but it definitely is delicious. The service is pretty good, never any complaints or problems at this location. Great location in Clearview Mall so ample parking and could also be a good trip to the theater while there. Also... The weekly $5 drink specials are pretty nice too!
(4)
Alison D.
I've been pleasantly surprised by Semolina more than once. Considering its location in a mediocre mall, I didn't have high expectations, but we always enjoy our meals. I've had the pad thai and the shrimp corn bisque - both really good. Bf always gets the macaroni cheese cake, which is a beautiful thing. The staff here is incredibly well trained and polite, but not stiff. The manager generally checks in on the table once as well. They obviously take service seriously, which is not common in the NOLA area, unless you're paying $20+ a plate. Their prices are good, and their menu has a good range of options.
We went with 3 adults and 2 - 10 year kids and the wait staff was super friendly. We ordered the cheesy garlic bread which was good. I didn't necessarily care for the grated parm on it, but the marinara dip was Amazing!!! Tasted homemade. I ordered the small plate of trout with spinach. The fish was a bit thin, but tasted good. The spinach was awesome! The kid's macaroni, chicken tenders and the Chicken Marcela was all really good too! The spaghetti was a bit bland, but came out on a plate with enough to feed an Army! I was skeptical about bringing children in, but the place was welcoming to all of us. On top I feel like everything was fairly priced. I'd say this was an unexpected win!
(4)
Gabriel S.
Love, love, love this place. Great food. Decent prices, great waiters. They are so friendly here I've been going to semolinas as a young boy with my parents. The is always so good. I've never had a problem going.
(5)
Brian M.
Semolina is certainly one of my favorite restaurants. The pasta is superb; in fact, a soprano friend of mine once assured me it was the equal of that found in the great cities of Italy. Also, the wait staff and management are just magnificent. Bravo!
(5)
Roxanne C.
I like coming here when I'm in the mood for Italian food. The shrimp roban pasta dish is delicious! The ambience nice, and it's in a convenient location. I usually come here either before or after seeing a movie since the theatre is right in the mall. Overall, it's an affordable restaurant and a great place to come to whether you're on a date or with a family.
(4)
Laura L.
This was really good food. I still remember the garlic spread with the free bread seven years later. The service was amazing.
(5)
Mary W.
We used to go to semolinas when it was in Florida- - years ago & it was a favorite of ours- saw this on LA & had to try. We split the jambalaya - they served it in two dishes- it was good & hit the spot. One of the owners stooped to inquire about our meal - nice conversion. We would stop here again - wish it was back in FL.
(3)
Andrea F.
I tried this restaurant yesterday (Memorial Day) and now understand why it was pretty much empty at 4 in the afternoon. The host suggested that I sit in the bar for quicker service, which was surprising as I could not see very many customers. I am 5ft tall. I had to leap on to the chairs they were so high. The table and half wall beside me were so slick with polish, I knew that if I used either to help me get up, I would slide off. The strawberry daiquiri and the parmesan chicken salad were very good, once the bartender brought silverware (which I had to ask for). If they could not polish the furniture, or lower the tables and chairs, it would be much better.
THEOR mac&cheese cheese cake is to die for! Eggplant&crawfish is perfect! Spinach artichoke is perfecto!
(5)
Marielle S.
When this place fell off the planet a few years ago, I was really bummed. There used to be one right by my house and I loved going there when I was in the mood for inexpensive pasta that wasn't the Olive Garden. When I heard that there was one at Clearview Mall, I couldn't wait to check it out. Of course, you know when I went, I just had to get my favorite which is the muffaletta pasta. Yummy penne pasta with strips of ham and salami topped with olive salad, mozzarella, and olive oil. Sure, it's not the healthiest thing on the menu, but it is definitely my favorite. After Katrina, they had taken it off of their menu, for whatever reason, and I was so bummed. Well, it was fabulous and it was just as I had remembered. The chicken quesadilla pasta is also really good, if you are in the mood for something a little spicier. Sure, it's a mall restaurant, but give it a chance. The food is good, not too expensive and the service is great! I will definitely be going back!
(4)
Shannon S.
This place had some glory days I remember when they were pretty good and I actually liked this place. They then began to slowly decline and get inconsistent as their chain empire expanded and then collapsed. Lately they just seem to mostly be unacceptable as their chain-ful death continues. This used to be an inexpensive and quick place to grab a decent meal before a movie but of late they just have not lived up to expectations and my dining dollar feels drawn elsewhere. I think if they can institute some quality control and go back to the roots of what made them what they used to be they could vastly improve this place.
(2)
Tayler H.
I have been going to this restaurant for many years now. It is in a great location and very convenient for picking up to go orders. The food used to be spectacular. The past couple of times I have ordered from here I have been disappointed. The Shrimp Roban has always been my "go-to" for a delicious dish, but the quality has deteriorated. The flavor is missing and the shrimp isn't great-not just one bad order, but several visits in a row. The service has gone down hill as well. The hostesses and someone who appeared to be a manager barely even acknowledged me as I left the establishment, as they lounged on the hostess stand. When I walked in there was no one to even be found. It has definitely become the "hit-or-miss" type of restaurant. I doubt I will continue to visit.
(1)
Lance H.
Food is great here...appetizers, the fish, the pasta! I love taking my family here, its really convenient location in Clearview. I haven't had one bad meal yet.
(4)
Dennis G.
After reading some reviews i went to Semolina with the girlfriend with my meal already in mind. See, I love a good muffaletta. I used to make them myself back when I worked in the family bakery/deli. Nothing quite like a muffaletta with home made olive salad. But I digress. Considering my love of the sandwich I though I'd give the muffaletta pasta a try. It's interesting. I does a good job of capturing the flavors found in a muffaletta sandwich but doesn't quite seem to blend them together. I think this is because the ingredients are free to spread out and separate over the pasta rather than in a sandwich where each bite gets a bit of everything. So a dish that sounds great on paper but doesn't quite come together. That does a good job of explaining Semolina itself. There was a time when this was a locally owned chain and had creative and delicious pasta dishes. Now it's one location in the mall. For what they charge I was expecting something along the lines of what I remember of the old days. While everything in our meal was good, it wasn't great or even really good. Maybe I'm just harsh because I remember the glory days of Semonlina. Or maybe it's just mediocre now.
(2)
May W.
Semolina used to be one of my favorite restaurants and I was really excited about eating there when I moved back. But everyone warned me about them. I didn't listen and went there for dinner one night with a couple of friends that had also moved away. We met for an early dinner. 6 so we can catch the 7 o'clock show. I started off with a shrimp and corn bisque. It was a watery version of its former glory. The shrimp were mealy and should not have been used. At all. The side Caesar salad was drenched in dressing. (it was still good.) But the chicken marsala was heartbreaking. Their sauce is half marsala wine and Alfredo. Their Alfredo sauce was disgusting. Words can't even begin to describe how gross it was. Seriously the stuff you buy in cans is better than the stuff they were serving. The chicken was rubbery and very processed.(I've tasted better chicken on a Wendy's salad and I used to think that was the worse "chicken" in the world. My friends ordered an eggplant parmesan and a shrimp pesto. Each dish was equally horrendous. Then to make matters worse, we all got sick after we left so we didn't even make it thru our movie. Shame on you Greg for running this franchise to the ground. You should have just closed down all the Semolina's instead of destroying its reputation.
(1)
Cheryl R.
Good food - lot's of very nice dishes - I enjoyed thier lunch eggplant parm w/ the sauteed spinach - very good ... If they had it I would hgotten their chicken armsala which is usually very good but alas they were out ....Service was very good too - attentive & helpful!!
(3)
Chris M.
I had dinner at the bar. The bartender was busy, but attentative. I order the chicken enchilada pasta with a side house salad. The bartender brought out bread with my beverage, and everything arrived "on time." The salad had a good mix of veggies, and the balsamic vinegar was good, but there was quite a bit of cheese (too much?) on the salad. But the pasta was delicious! And there was a lot- I could almost split it with someone else. I'd recommend it.
(4)
Kaleb Banning K.
I used to take my mom to the Semolina in Slidell once in a while. She really liked it, and I eventually fell for their interesting take on pasta. This place had a great menu and a very unique business model. Pasta dishes from around the world. Lot's of fun to eat there, and they really put out an amazing product for the affordable price. I think the one in the Clearview Mall is the last in the area. I hope they make it, because they are well managed, clean and present a one of a kind menu. This place is great for that first or second date. With the movie theater in the same building, you can make an entire evening based around your meal there.
(4)
Erin M.
Went here yesterday with my parents for a late lunch at 2:30pm and it was packed. We ordered the baked feta. So delicious and always so consistent. the waitress also brought us bread with garlic butter. I ordered the Crawfish Roban and didn't like it. I am not sure what it was just not a fan. My Dad got the grilled fish actually had the same sauce as I mine tasted mine and said they tasted different. I am not sure. Mom got the muffaletta pasta and she said it was good.
(2)
Scott F.
The staff is attentive and polite. The food is good but nothing special or anything I'd bring friends from out of town to eat. The prices are far and the portions are large. The menu has something for everyone and the food is consistent in both quality, portion, and taste. If you want a quick dinner or lunch with good portions and prices this is the place; however, the overall taste (for me, anyway) is just okay. Not bad, but not anything overly special.
(3)
Megan M.
I've placed two catering orders with Semolina's for work events. They are the only restaurant in the area (that I've found so far) who allows me to pick up my order at 10:30am for lunch. And they're close enough for me to be back and have food ready by the time my customers start trickling in before 11. The food is good. It's hot. It's fresh. It's cost effective. I have no real complaints. My only suggestion would be that they pre-cut bread loaves for catering orders. I can recommend the caesar salad, mini meatballs, chicken/shrimp roban, and jambalaya pasta. They've all been huge hits at the office, and with my roommate when I brought home leftovers.
(4)
Parker L.
I ordered noodles and they fricken gave me a fricken spoon Frick these fricken fricks. Also I got I got the fricken chiken parmesan and they fricked up the fricken noodle to chicken ratio frick semolina
(1)
Christopher C.
What's not to like? The Enchilada Pasta is my favorite. Love Crawfish Fest, though I miss the big crawfish the was on the Metairie Road location. you saw it & knew.
(5)
Crystal C.
Pros: I've been ordering the same meal here since undergrad. The boyfriend and I split some buttery garlic bread, shrimp Roban, and the bread pudding. Still the very best bread pudding I've ever eaten. Plenty of parking. Cons: This place isn't as great as I remembered from my college days. I guess my palate has changed? I probably wont be back unless I am craving the bread or the bread pudding. Unlikely, since I don't go to places just for the dessert.
(3)
Ian C.
I love this place. The only downsize it is now the only one. I've never had a bad time here and that includes the service. I have my favorites but with this menu I take chances and I then I find a new favorite.
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Garage, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes 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.
Christopher J.
Had chicken enchilada pasta. It was good. Not great. And a big portion too. I generally am not a fan of Semolina. Never had anything fantastic, but never had anything bad either. Decent enough for what it is
(3)Jude P.
Oh Semolina's... I'd like to give you a better review but but... I just can't. It kinda sucks the reviews can't at least do half's but it's whatever. Decided to go there post/pre movie (sold out) so instead of traveling, me & a date decided to go there since it was close and it beat out Twin peaks for obvious reason ;) haha The staff I would rate a 4... they were very good, always smiling, and accepting so it was a high plus for me. The food & drinks on the other hand was a different story. I had a stormy cosmo... which was ok but a little on the sugary side and left me no buzz, mind you, the drink I had upstairs at the movie theatre although measured, left a nice buzz with minutes so I definitely won't be coming here for drinks. Also, my date's drink said by her and after a taste was too sugary and felt syrupish. Next the meal which I had the Chicken Marsala... again, never again. Sorry it tasted like the sauce was made from a kit. The chicken itself was the best part... tender, and felt like it can mesh with no matter what sauce you put on it. And the linguine tasted a bit overcooked... and I'm a big fan of pasta but this wasn't cutting it, unless it was like half price or something. Aside from that, the prices were cool, and although there weren't many people, it was clean... and to plug, the staff was cool. Sorry but there's not much of a reason to come back unless I had a coupon and was coming back from work, but that's it. Sorry Semolina...
(2)Kelly H.
I recall back in the time before, long before, (that is, before the 12 or so years I spent in the Northeast) that Semolina was a nice little local chain with some interesting pasta dishes. Fast forward to the present - there is now only one location that remains open and it's in Clearview Mall. I can see why. I'm not going to waste a lot of time here - just cut to the chase: The Pros: It's in a good location if you looking for a casual dinner before or after a movie at the Clearview AMC. The prices are reasonable -both the food and the wines by the glass. Service is pretty fast - if you let your server know that you are in a bit of a hurry to make it to the movie on time he or she will do what they can to expedite your meal. Also, the bread is pretty good. The Cons: While the food is eatable it ain't that good. It's a few notches below other chain Italian restaurants. The somewhat creative pasta dishes of the past have been replaced with some rather generic creations and standard red sauce Italian. Everything tends to underwhelm. Bottom Line: it's not bad for a quick bite before or after the movie. Otherwise, you may be better off going elsewhere.
(2)Brad B.
The place was clean and had some a lot going on. The nachos were some of the best I have ever had just the right amount of cheese and meat. The kids meal were big and looked very good. My salad was nothing special but it was ok. The service was no better then average but no worse. I will try this place again after I try all the other places around it.
(4)Rooba C.
This place has so much potential but the food is not at all what it used to be :(
(1)Ac A.
Excellent try the Shrimp Roban or the Greek Salad. Yummmmm
(4)Kori M.
Let me start by saying that when I lived in New Orleans I used to eat at Semolina regularly. So of course I was very excited to go there during my last visit. The place was empty when we first go there. We must have brought the crowd in because it began to fill up shortly after we arrived. Almost 10 minutes passed before anyone came to greet us and take our drink orders. I saw some people sitting for an even longer period of time waiting for someone to come to the table. My mother ordered coffee which the server claimed was just brewed yet it wasn't hot. So she took it to the back microwaved it and brought it back. (Anyone who is a serious coffee drinker can tell) The server also referred to my 57 year old mother and myself who is 27 as "girls". "Would you girls like anything else?" Of course the server had to be about 21 herself. I will say that she saw the look on my face and apologized which I appreciated. Unfortunately there was no salvaging this experience. I was truly appalled that the service was so horrible. What made it even worse was when my mother asked for another cup of coffee after dinner, the server took my mother's cup off the table brought it to the back, refilled it and brought it back out. The same cup, same dirty, napkin under the cup. I mean it was really appalling. I will say that the food was as delicious as I remembered which is unfortunate because due to the service I will not be returning to this location.
(2)Dawn C.
I always knew that Semolina's makes an amazing Caesar salad. Their dressing is so tangy. And each leaf of romaine is coated in it. I also ordered one of my favorites: Shrimp Roban. I was going to complement my entree with a small Caesar salad, however, I was told that lunch entrees are served with a vegetable. They offered Spinach sauteed in butter. My Roban was seasoned perfectly and the spinach was delicious! Never underestimate the lunch menu or the quality and taste of the items. Visit Semolina's at Clearview Mall in Metairie, LA soon!
(4)Lisa D.
Not happy with service tonight. Our waiter didn't check in on our regularly and kitchen was S L O W! My chicken enchilada pasta was great as well as my bread pudding. I was just not pleased with the server or the slow kitchen & I'm usually not one to complain about that kind of stuff.
(2)Guy R.
At least some of Semolina's N.O. locations were once good, but this location seems consistently a waste of time and money. Service was excellent, but that can't salvage the fact that 4 of 4 dinners were uniformly uninteresting. Their Pad Thai (other location?) was excellent years ago, now it's just sad. We had 2 for 1 coupons, and it was still not worth it.
(2)Geovanni V.
Good family lunch. Always a good spot to come and hang out with Ketra and lowercase g. Maybe not the best pasta in the world. But very tasty and enough to put a smile on everyone's face. Always a family favorite.
(4)Shercole K.
I love spending quiet time with my mommy (Yes, I call her my mommy) over dinner at Semolina's. Good family location. I see many families even with kids in here all the time. We normally go in the 5/6pm hours and its extremely quiet and nowhere near crowded so it's perfect time to talk and enjoy a pretty good meal. Every time I go I pretty much order the same thing. Garlic Cheesy Bread and Chicken Parmesan. The portions are hardcore so expect to have a meal for two days seriously. It's just really a great hearty meal. I love the angel hair pasta and the flavors incorporated in their meals. There bread pudding is also hardcore. You probably won't survive the huge chunk offered up but it definitely is delicious. The service is pretty good, never any complaints or problems at this location. Great location in Clearview Mall so ample parking and could also be a good trip to the theater while there. Also... The weekly $5 drink specials are pretty nice too!
(4)Alison D.
I've been pleasantly surprised by Semolina more than once. Considering its location in a mediocre mall, I didn't have high expectations, but we always enjoy our meals. I've had the pad thai and the shrimp corn bisque - both really good. Bf always gets the macaroni cheese cake, which is a beautiful thing. The staff here is incredibly well trained and polite, but not stiff. The manager generally checks in on the table once as well. They obviously take service seriously, which is not common in the NOLA area, unless you're paying $20+ a plate. Their prices are good, and their menu has a good range of options.
(5)Ashley H.
I, not being a native to the area, was not familiar with Semolina or any its past (alleged) glory. The boyfriend, having lived here back when it was more popular, fosters many fond memories of great meals over the years. He's been talking about going to the last remaining location forever and I've been pretty ambivalent. Well, he finally got around to taking me there the other weekend. I'm kinda of glad I didn't read any of the other reviews because they probably would've tainted my experience. I do, however, agree with the overall rating of three stars for the place. It was, per Yelp rating scale, a solidly "A-OK" dining experience. Now would probably be a good time to admit that I've never set foot inside Clearview Mall. (Target, yes, but never into the actual mall.) I didn't even realize there was a movie theater in there until we went to Semolina and I noticed it as we were walking in. However, despite never actually going into the mall, I had a preconceived notion as to what it was probably like and, by proxy, what Semolina would be like. I have to say, I was a little surprised by the decor in the restaurant. It was nicer than I was expecting but it also felt like it could stand a good, deep cleaning. It wasn't that it was dirty, per se, just kind of tired looking. We were seated quickly and our waiter promptly showed up to take our drink order. The food is pretty standard fare for an Italian restaurant located in/near a mall. I don't even exactly what I ordered... some kind of cheese based pasta that included gorgonzola, a personal favorite. We actually both ordered the same entrée, but he got shrimp with his and I got chicken. I definitely felt like I came out on top by choosing chicken after checking out the shrimp on his. The food was pretty good. It wasn't fancy. I'll make the obvious comparison to Olive Garden and Macaroni Grill. If Olive Garden is the bottom end of the chain-Italian restaurant scale and Macaroni Grill is at the other end, Semolina would fall somewhere in the middle of the two. They have this wedge of mac and cheese entree that I kept eyeing but didn't order because I was a little unsure of what I'd be getting myself into. I am kind of obsessed with mac and cheese and didn't want to risk making a decision that would alter my feelings for the delicious dish. I saw a few other folks eating it and if we ever go back, that is definitely what I will get. Our waiter confirmed at the end of our meal that it would have been a solid choice. Speaking of our waiter, he was sweet as pie and on the spot with everything. The food came out promptly. Our beverages were kept full. The bill was handled swiftly. I was pleased with the service we received. To sum it up, it was enjoyable enough, but I'm also not dying to go back. So, again, a solid "A-OK" three-star rating from me.
(3)Emily B.
We went with 3 adults and 2 - 10 year kids and the wait staff was super friendly. We ordered the cheesy garlic bread which was good. I didn't necessarily care for the grated parm on it, but the marinara dip was Amazing!!! Tasted homemade. I ordered the small plate of trout with spinach. The fish was a bit thin, but tasted good. The spinach was awesome! The kid's macaroni, chicken tenders and the Chicken Marcela was all really good too! The spaghetti was a bit bland, but came out on a plate with enough to feed an Army! I was skeptical about bringing children in, but the place was welcoming to all of us. On top I feel like everything was fairly priced. I'd say this was an unexpected win!
(4)Gabriel S.
Love, love, love this place. Great food. Decent prices, great waiters. They are so friendly here I've been going to semolinas as a young boy with my parents. The is always so good. I've never had a problem going.
(5)Brian M.
Semolina is certainly one of my favorite restaurants. The pasta is superb; in fact, a soprano friend of mine once assured me it was the equal of that found in the great cities of Italy. Also, the wait staff and management are just magnificent. Bravo!
(5)Roxanne C.
I like coming here when I'm in the mood for Italian food. The shrimp roban pasta dish is delicious! The ambience nice, and it's in a convenient location. I usually come here either before or after seeing a movie since the theatre is right in the mall. Overall, it's an affordable restaurant and a great place to come to whether you're on a date or with a family.
(4)Laura L.
This was really good food. I still remember the garlic spread with the free bread seven years later. The service was amazing.
(5)Mary W.
We used to go to semolinas when it was in Florida- - years ago & it was a favorite of ours- saw this on LA & had to try. We split the jambalaya - they served it in two dishes- it was good & hit the spot. One of the owners stooped to inquire about our meal - nice conversion. We would stop here again - wish it was back in FL.
(3)Andrea F.
I tried this restaurant yesterday (Memorial Day) and now understand why it was pretty much empty at 4 in the afternoon. The host suggested that I sit in the bar for quicker service, which was surprising as I could not see very many customers. I am 5ft tall. I had to leap on to the chairs they were so high. The table and half wall beside me were so slick with polish, I knew that if I used either to help me get up, I would slide off. The strawberry daiquiri and the parmesan chicken salad were very good, once the bartender brought silverware (which I had to ask for). If they could not polish the furniture, or lower the tables and chairs, it would be much better.
(2)Jennifer C.
We came here last night for Valentine's Day. Service was good and fast especially for this day. My fiancé and I shared the spinach artichoke dip. Our friends had the meatball appetizer. Everything was delicious. Our entrees were decent size and great as well. I recommend the Peachtree Bellini. It was so good and $5 isn't bad either.
(4)Huong H.
THEOR mac&cheese cheese cake is to die for! Eggplant&crawfish is perfect! Spinach artichoke is perfecto!
(5)Marielle S.
When this place fell off the planet a few years ago, I was really bummed. There used to be one right by my house and I loved going there when I was in the mood for inexpensive pasta that wasn't the Olive Garden. When I heard that there was one at Clearview Mall, I couldn't wait to check it out. Of course, you know when I went, I just had to get my favorite which is the muffaletta pasta. Yummy penne pasta with strips of ham and salami topped with olive salad, mozzarella, and olive oil. Sure, it's not the healthiest thing on the menu, but it is definitely my favorite. After Katrina, they had taken it off of their menu, for whatever reason, and I was so bummed. Well, it was fabulous and it was just as I had remembered. The chicken quesadilla pasta is also really good, if you are in the mood for something a little spicier. Sure, it's a mall restaurant, but give it a chance. The food is good, not too expensive and the service is great! I will definitely be going back!
(4)Shannon S.
This place had some glory days I remember when they were pretty good and I actually liked this place. They then began to slowly decline and get inconsistent as their chain empire expanded and then collapsed. Lately they just seem to mostly be unacceptable as their chain-ful death continues. This used to be an inexpensive and quick place to grab a decent meal before a movie but of late they just have not lived up to expectations and my dining dollar feels drawn elsewhere. I think if they can institute some quality control and go back to the roots of what made them what they used to be they could vastly improve this place.
(2)Tayler H.
I have been going to this restaurant for many years now. It is in a great location and very convenient for picking up to go orders. The food used to be spectacular. The past couple of times I have ordered from here I have been disappointed. The Shrimp Roban has always been my "go-to" for a delicious dish, but the quality has deteriorated. The flavor is missing and the shrimp isn't great-not just one bad order, but several visits in a row. The service has gone down hill as well. The hostesses and someone who appeared to be a manager barely even acknowledged me as I left the establishment, as they lounged on the hostess stand. When I walked in there was no one to even be found. It has definitely become the "hit-or-miss" type of restaurant. I doubt I will continue to visit.
(1)Lance H.
Food is great here...appetizers, the fish, the pasta! I love taking my family here, its really convenient location in Clearview. I haven't had one bad meal yet.
(4)Dennis G.
After reading some reviews i went to Semolina with the girlfriend with my meal already in mind. See, I love a good muffaletta. I used to make them myself back when I worked in the family bakery/deli. Nothing quite like a muffaletta with home made olive salad. But I digress. Considering my love of the sandwich I though I'd give the muffaletta pasta a try. It's interesting. I does a good job of capturing the flavors found in a muffaletta sandwich but doesn't quite seem to blend them together. I think this is because the ingredients are free to spread out and separate over the pasta rather than in a sandwich where each bite gets a bit of everything. So a dish that sounds great on paper but doesn't quite come together. That does a good job of explaining Semolina itself. There was a time when this was a locally owned chain and had creative and delicious pasta dishes. Now it's one location in the mall. For what they charge I was expecting something along the lines of what I remember of the old days. While everything in our meal was good, it wasn't great or even really good. Maybe I'm just harsh because I remember the glory days of Semonlina. Or maybe it's just mediocre now.
(2)May W.
Semolina used to be one of my favorite restaurants and I was really excited about eating there when I moved back. But everyone warned me about them. I didn't listen and went there for dinner one night with a couple of friends that had also moved away. We met for an early dinner. 6 so we can catch the 7 o'clock show. I started off with a shrimp and corn bisque. It was a watery version of its former glory. The shrimp were mealy and should not have been used. At all. The side Caesar salad was drenched in dressing. (it was still good.) But the chicken marsala was heartbreaking. Their sauce is half marsala wine and Alfredo. Their Alfredo sauce was disgusting. Words can't even begin to describe how gross it was. Seriously the stuff you buy in cans is better than the stuff they were serving. The chicken was rubbery and very processed.(I've tasted better chicken on a Wendy's salad and I used to think that was the worse "chicken" in the world. My friends ordered an eggplant parmesan and a shrimp pesto. Each dish was equally horrendous. Then to make matters worse, we all got sick after we left so we didn't even make it thru our movie. Shame on you Greg for running this franchise to the ground. You should have just closed down all the Semolina's instead of destroying its reputation.
(1)Cheryl R.
Good food - lot's of very nice dishes - I enjoyed thier lunch eggplant parm w/ the sauteed spinach - very good ... If they had it I would hgotten their chicken armsala which is usually very good but alas they were out ....Service was very good too - attentive & helpful!!
(3)Chris M.
I had dinner at the bar. The bartender was busy, but attentative. I order the chicken enchilada pasta with a side house salad. The bartender brought out bread with my beverage, and everything arrived "on time." The salad had a good mix of veggies, and the balsamic vinegar was good, but there was quite a bit of cheese (too much?) on the salad. But the pasta was delicious! And there was a lot- I could almost split it with someone else. I'd recommend it.
(4)Kaleb Banning K.
I used to take my mom to the Semolina in Slidell once in a while. She really liked it, and I eventually fell for their interesting take on pasta. This place had a great menu and a very unique business model. Pasta dishes from around the world. Lot's of fun to eat there, and they really put out an amazing product for the affordable price. I think the one in the Clearview Mall is the last in the area. I hope they make it, because they are well managed, clean and present a one of a kind menu. This place is great for that first or second date. With the movie theater in the same building, you can make an entire evening based around your meal there.
(4)Erin M.
Went here yesterday with my parents for a late lunch at 2:30pm and it was packed. We ordered the baked feta. So delicious and always so consistent. the waitress also brought us bread with garlic butter. I ordered the Crawfish Roban and didn't like it. I am not sure what it was just not a fan. My Dad got the grilled fish actually had the same sauce as I mine tasted mine and said they tasted different. I am not sure. Mom got the muffaletta pasta and she said it was good.
(2)Scott F.
The staff is attentive and polite. The food is good but nothing special or anything I'd bring friends from out of town to eat. The prices are far and the portions are large. The menu has something for everyone and the food is consistent in both quality, portion, and taste. If you want a quick dinner or lunch with good portions and prices this is the place; however, the overall taste (for me, anyway) is just okay. Not bad, but not anything overly special.
(3)Megan M.
I've placed two catering orders with Semolina's for work events. They are the only restaurant in the area (that I've found so far) who allows me to pick up my order at 10:30am for lunch. And they're close enough for me to be back and have food ready by the time my customers start trickling in before 11. The food is good. It's hot. It's fresh. It's cost effective. I have no real complaints. My only suggestion would be that they pre-cut bread loaves for catering orders. I can recommend the caesar salad, mini meatballs, chicken/shrimp roban, and jambalaya pasta. They've all been huge hits at the office, and with my roommate when I brought home leftovers.
(4)Parker L.
I ordered noodles and they fricken gave me a fricken spoon Frick these fricken fricks. Also I got I got the fricken chiken parmesan and they fricked up the fricken noodle to chicken ratio frick semolina
(1)Christopher C.
What's not to like? The Enchilada Pasta is my favorite. Love Crawfish Fest, though I miss the big crawfish the was on the Metairie Road location. you saw it & knew.
(5)Crystal C.
Pros: I've been ordering the same meal here since undergrad. The boyfriend and I split some buttery garlic bread, shrimp Roban, and the bread pudding. Still the very best bread pudding I've ever eaten. Plenty of parking. Cons: This place isn't as great as I remembered from my college days. I guess my palate has changed? I probably wont be back unless I am craving the bread or the bread pudding. Unlikely, since I don't go to places just for the dessert.
(3)Ian C.
I love this place. The only downsize it is now the only one. I've never had a bad time here and that includes the service. I have my favorites but with this menu I take chances and I then I find a new favorite.
(5)