Love this place! The food is great. My favorite thing on the menu is the Cozze in Bianco(steamed mussels) which is one of their antipasti dishes. The atmosphere & decor are also very appealing. Great for a romantic date night, dinner out with the girls, or even if you want to drop in solo. If going solo I recommend sitting at the pasta bar. At the pasta bar you can watch them make all the dishes & also get a little sample. Watching the cooks at work is entertaining. I didn't give it 5 stars b/c sometimes the food can take a bit long to come out. Plus I wish they had the complementary salad like at Olive Garden
(4)
Dennis M.
Ordered the pork tenderloin medallions and zucchini strips and it was outstanding. Had a large party and everyone seemed very content with their meals. Was seated very quickly and waitress was very nice and helpful. Enjoyed the evening very much. Good job Carrabbas
(4)
Murray M.
This place is the typical chain restaurant that is ubiquitous in the Irmo suburbs of Columbia. It's difficult to find a place in this area to eat that's not a chain. Therefore, the prices here are higher than local places I've eaten in Boston and NYC, for example, that had much better food. The most recent time I came here was for Mother's Day in 2014, and I ordered the spaghetti, because it's kind of hard to mess up spaghetti. Unfortunately, Carrabba's managed to mess it up as it was very watery, and I'm guessing they didn't drain the noodles. I ended up eating about two bites, and they offered me extra sauce to take home. Honestly, in my opinion, SpaghettiOs in the can are better than the spaghetti was here at Carrabba's, and SpaghettiOs are much cheaper. My mom, though, did enjoy her food. Overall, I do think this place is way overrated and overpriced. I'm giving two stars instead of one because the service is good, and it's not their fault that they're a chain.
(2)
Jaime M.
excellent food and service. take out service is always super fast and they bring it to your car.
(4)
Erik G.
Everything was excellent, minus the salad. Pasta Weesie was ridiculously good. Happy hour was great....2.50 for a captain and coke
(4)
Mia C.
Only Carrabba's I have been to. Even though it is a chain restaurant, it is way better than Olive Garden.
(5)
Dale E.
The staff is always fast and courteous. The food is always top notch! When I say the food I mean the pork chop marsala because that's all I ever get but friends and family say everything is good. I like the tiramisu when I save enough room for it
(5)
Jason R.
Can't say anything bad. Service and food is top notch. I mostly snag a spot at or in the bar area to avoid the wait. Service is slightly better in the dining room, but I'm splitting hairs here. Selection behind the bar is limited, but the wine list is decent and affordable.
(4)
Jasminn W.
This was the first location I went to when I first visited a Carrabbas! Excellent staff. Nice atmosphere. Great place to take someone if you are trying to impress. The food is delicious and the waiters/waitresses are extra courteous.
(5)
John G.
What a great experience this place is. The staff and the food are both top quality. The Chicken Marsala is great and the steak isn't bad either. From the calamari appetizers to the fabulous desserts, I can say this is one of my favorite places to dine in Columbia. Very friendly and attentive staff really make this restaurant stand out!
(5)
Scott G.
I used to work here and can personally say that after working I several kitchens in Columbia, Carrabbas truly does have some of the highest quality food I have seen. Two kinds of fresh pasta, real seasonings, scratch made soups and salad dressings, and on the right nights when Phil is on the grill, probably one of the best steaks in Columbia. Really busy Friday nights from 6:30- 8, be ready to wait or call ahead and have half the wait time.
(5)
Monkee C.
After making the mistake of trying to go to the mall on the Saturday before Christmas, sig-o and I stopped here for dinner because it was closest from the mall parking lot. Neither of us had been to one before; I figured it couldn't be worse than a run of the mill Olive Garden. *Much* better than any OG I've been to...actually lumping them together in the same category borders on insulting. The food and atmosphere are several steps nicer for not much more cash money. The calamari, mozzarella sticks, and bruchette are easily among the best from a "chain" restaurant I've had, especially the calamari...lightly fried, not oily or rubbery. Even their bread and evoo/herbs were a cut above the norm. For our entrees we ordered a gnocchi special, which had an especially tasty fennel sausage (who doesn't like sausage?) and their spiedino di mare, which is (quoting their menu) "Shrimp and sea scallops coated with Italian breadcrumbs, grilled and topped with lemon butter sauce". So, definitely worth a stop if you are feeling in the mood for Italian fare without the higher prices of a standalone joint or the mass-market "Italian" from OG type places.
(4)
Brian M.
I don't know that this really compares to authentic Italian food. The Pasta "Wheesie" might be a giveaway. Nonetheless it was well prepared and I appreciated that the shrimp was not over done. For the food I would have just left it at 2 stars. The staff gives it the extra star. They were friendly and helpful. Not too many times does the bar tender introduce themselves formally with a handshake. Not something you find in Portland.
(3)
Brittany and Tim L.
very good food. way better than olive garden except maybe the bread sticks. i got grilled shrimp and scallops in a garlic wine butter sauce and they just melted in my mouth they were so tender and perfectly cooked. my husband got the pork chops and put it this way he didn't even share one bite and he ate them without stopping for air. I just wish they had bread sticks. they have a loft of bread with a herb and olive oil dipping sauce that is good don't get me wrong. Prices are the same as many chain Italian places but the quality in the food doesn't say chain restaurant. This is a must go.
(5)
Ramon S.
I had the chicken Brian and my girlfriend had the fettuccine. The food was delicious. The margarita was inexpensive and delicious. I will definitely come back again. Don't waste your time and money at Olive Garden.
(5)
Lars G.
Typical chain dreck. Boy-R-Dee pasta dishes not worth having here. But, that's true of most chains that try to pass themselves off as Italian restaurants. Italian cuisine is so much more than marinara on noodles. It is a subtle creature that must be handled with a gentle touch to meld the nuances of roasted aromatics with the sweet yet acidic overtones of vine ripened fruit. If you are considering going to this place, you might as well dump some ketchup on some ground beef with garlic salt. You'll get about the same level of enjoyment.
(1)
A S.
Service was great! Food was good! Reminded me of Olive Garden, but a bit of an upgrade!
(3)
Kimberly M.
The food was absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow and the server dropped a drink on my daughter, but she apologized and was super sweet overall. The atmosphere was relaxing and pleasant. I love the trees on the roof outside! You would never guess this is a chain restaurant. The food is authentic.
(4)
Grace M.
For a chain restaurant this place is good. I prefer sitting at the bar area rather than a table. Billy the bartender provides exceptional service when you sit AT the bar, and not the booths or high tops in the bar area. I enjoy their salads and soups, and their calamari is good. Since I'm a pasta lover, I typically like venturing out and trying new things each time I'm there. I just tried their cannolis for the first time last night and needless to say, I was somewhat impressed. The pistachios are what made me want to try it (usually I go for the tiramisu). It's in a prime location because it's close to the mall and the movies.
(3)
Ishah T.
We arrived and decided to eat outside so went inside to have someone seat us. The greeter informed us it is first come first serve outside (no biggy cause it's not that busy) but we waited for 15 before we got our water and order taken. The next couple that came was actually seated and given silver ware and menus by the same greeter who said it was first come first serve.The soup was over cooked and the veggies were mushy. We ran out of water and they didn't bring more bread after it was finished. Overall in this instance the service was not great and the food unremarkable outside of saying it was bland and over cooked. Won't be going back to this location for a while.
(2)
Maryann G.
My husband and I ate here last night.His meal was the simple pasta with meat balls .He enjoyed it.I had the shrimp and scallops with Vodka sauce.It was not good the scallops tasted like soap or iodine as the waitress said the chef said.His explanation was because the scallops were small and cooked in the sauce,they taste like that. Had a manager been a gracious host and came to the table to see how every thing was this would have been said in person not as a bad review.
(1)
Ryan C.
This was my and my boyfriends first visit and absolutely enjoyed it. Had the antipasti platter and chicken Bryan was melt in your mouth. There was no wait time to get a table and our waitress who was also the bartender was very pleasant and helpful. We will be going back again. I think this is gonna become a regular date spot for us.
(5)
Angelo A.
Had dinner here during our recent visit to South Carolina. This was our first time eating at Carrabba's. Here are our general impressions: * Lots of parking. * Nice atmosphere and decor. * Chain Italian restaurant (like Olive Garden, Buca de Beppo and Macaroni Grill). * Table bread served with olive oil and herbs. Didn't really like the herbs, so we just had the olive oil. Kind of like the balsamic vinegar and olive oil combo at Buca de Beppo better. * My wife had the Fettuccini Carraba (pasta with chicken, mushrooms and peas). Flavor was OK. * I had the Pollo La Scala (chicken with white wine, mascarpone and red bell pepper sauce). Flavor was OK, but the potion size was quite small relative to the price ($14.99). * My 3 year old daughters shared a serving of the kids mac and cheese. They inhaled it, so we asked for another order. The second order took FOREVER to arrive. By the time we got it, the girls had lost interest and we wound up taking it home untouched. Bit of a waste as they didn't touch it when we warmed it up the next day either. * BIG NEGATIVE: Waitress was unpleasant and surly.
(2)
Andi H.
I've always wanted to go to the restaurant with the trees and Friday we went for dinner at Carrabbas. We ordered the house Pinot Grigio and munched on the table bread until our orders arrived. I had the Chicken Bryan with zucchini as a side per the waitresses recommendation and I could not have been happier. Even when it arrived I was skeptical but the goat cheese and tomatoes mixed with the lemon garlic sauce was the perfect tangy/creamy mix. My boyfriend had the sirloin Marsala with a side of fettuccini Alfredo and he was a member of the clean plate club. Our waitress was very attentive and we can't wait to go back and try the other menu choices like the new chicken dish with fig sauce.
(4)
Andy M.
Were visiting the area and decided to have dinner here. I order some kind of Sicilian Chicken Soup . . . . . .It had about 1/4 cup of broth and the rest noodles, chicken, vegetables, etc. . . . I'm sorry but I'm all about the broth. I had 5 - 6 spoonfulls and that was it. Then ordered the Ravioli. . . . in a red gravy. Not good - tasted like it was from the frozen section of the grocery store. I've had much better elsewhere - heard the pizza was good here. Maybe we just ordered wrong.
(2)
Megan P.
Carrabbas is the best Italian chain restaurant in the area. I usually pick Carrabbas for my birthday dinner, and special occasions, because it does cost a few more bucks to eat here. I use to always get the pollo rosa Maria, which is chicken stuffed with prosciutto and fontina. I really liked it. I joined the amici club, and was invited to a tasting of menu items and potential menu items, where I met my new favorite dish. Chicken Bryan, chicken topped with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and lemon butter sauce. I've since tried their version of Mac and cheese, which was cheesy, but not my thing. Their service is always pretty good, but last night we hit the jackpot with our server, Summer. She was not standing by the table the whole night, but she made sure our drinks were full and any dirty plates were picked up! Save a few bucks by dining on Monday nights for the amore Monday menu with 3 course deals starting at 12$
(5)
Wes C.
Like most carabba`s ,the food and atmosphere are the same and pleasant. My only complaint was that the waitress poured an entire beer on my daughter. The waitress was very apologetic but maybe I am asking to much for a manager to stop by and see if everything is ok.
(2)
Lars G.
Typical chain dreck. Boy-R-Dee pasta dishes not worth having here. But, that's true of most chains that try to pass themselves off as Italian restaurants. Italian cuisine is so much more than marinara on noodles. It is a subtle creature that must be handled with a gentle touch to meld the nuances of roasted aromatics with the sweet yet acidic overtones of vine ripened fruit. If you are considering going to this place, you might as well dump some ketchup on some ground beef with garlic salt. You'll get about the same level of enjoyment.
(1)
A S.
Service was great! Food was good! Reminded me of Olive Garden, but a bit of an upgrade!
(3)
Ramon S.
I had the chicken Brian and my girlfriend had the fettuccine. The food was delicious. The margarita was inexpensive and delicious. I will definitely come back again. Don't waste your time and money at Olive Garden.
(5)
Jason R.
Can't say anything bad. Service and food is top notch. I mostly snag a spot at or in the bar area to avoid the wait. Service is slightly better in the dining room, but I'm splitting hairs here. Selection behind the bar is limited, but the wine list is decent and affordable.
(4)
Jasminn W.
This was the first location I went to when I first visited a Carrabbas! Excellent staff. Nice atmosphere. Great place to take someone if you are trying to impress. The food is delicious and the waiters/waitresses are extra courteous.
(5)
John G.
What a great experience this place is. The staff and the food are both top quality. The Chicken Marsala is great and the steak isn't bad either. From the calamari appetizers to the fabulous desserts, I can say this is one of my favorite places to dine in Columbia. Very friendly and attentive staff really make this restaurant stand out!
(5)
Scott G.
I used to work here and can personally say that after working I several kitchens in Columbia, Carrabbas truly does have some of the highest quality food I have seen. Two kinds of fresh pasta, real seasonings, scratch made soups and salad dressings, and on the right nights when Phil is on the grill, probably one of the best steaks in Columbia. Really busy Friday nights from 6:30- 8, be ready to wait or call ahead and have half the wait time.
(5)
Monkee C.
After making the mistake of trying to go to the mall on the Saturday before Christmas, sig-o and I stopped here for dinner because it was closest from the mall parking lot. Neither of us had been to one before; I figured it couldn't be worse than a run of the mill Olive Garden. *Much* better than any OG I've been to...actually lumping them together in the same category borders on insulting. The food and atmosphere are several steps nicer for not much more cash money. The calamari, mozzarella sticks, and bruchette are easily among the best from a "chain" restaurant I've had, especially the calamari...lightly fried, not oily or rubbery. Even their bread and evoo/herbs were a cut above the norm. For our entrees we ordered a gnocchi special, which had an especially tasty fennel sausage (who doesn't like sausage?) and their spiedino di mare, which is (quoting their menu) "Shrimp and sea scallops coated with Italian breadcrumbs, grilled and topped with lemon butter sauce". So, definitely worth a stop if you are feeling in the mood for Italian fare without the higher prices of a standalone joint or the mass-market "Italian" from OG type places.
(4)
Brian M.
I don't know that this really compares to authentic Italian food. The Pasta "Wheesie" might be a giveaway. Nonetheless it was well prepared and I appreciated that the shrimp was not over done. For the food I would have just left it at 2 stars. The staff gives it the extra star. They were friendly and helpful. Not too many times does the bar tender introduce themselves formally with a handshake. Not something you find in Portland.
(3)
Grace M.
For a chain restaurant this place is good. I prefer sitting at the bar area rather than a table. Billy the bartender provides exceptional service when you sit AT the bar, and not the booths or high tops in the bar area. I enjoy their salads and soups, and their calamari is good. Since I'm a pasta lover, I typically like venturing out and trying new things each time I'm there. I just tried their cannolis for the first time last night and needless to say, I was somewhat impressed. The pistachios are what made me want to try it (usually I go for the tiramisu). It's in a prime location because it's close to the mall and the movies.
(3)
Ishah T.
We arrived and decided to eat outside so went inside to have someone seat us. The greeter informed us it is first come first serve outside (no biggy cause it's not that busy) but we waited for 15 before we got our water and order taken. The next couple that came was actually seated and given silver ware and menus by the same greeter who said it was first come first serve.The soup was over cooked and the veggies were mushy. We ran out of water and they didn't bring more bread after it was finished. Overall in this instance the service was not great and the food unremarkable outside of saying it was bland and over cooked. Won't be going back to this location for a while.
(2)
Maryann G.
My husband and I ate here last night.His meal was the simple pasta with meat balls .He enjoyed it.I had the shrimp and scallops with Vodka sauce.It was not good the scallops tasted like soap or iodine as the waitress said the chef said.His explanation was because the scallops were small and cooked in the sauce,they taste like that. Had a manager been a gracious host and came to the table to see how every thing was this would have been said in person not as a bad review.
(1)
Ryan C.
This was my and my boyfriends first visit and absolutely enjoyed it. Had the antipasti platter and chicken Bryan was melt in your mouth. There was no wait time to get a table and our waitress who was also the bartender was very pleasant and helpful. We will be going back again. I think this is gonna become a regular date spot for us.
(5)
Angelo A.
Had dinner here during our recent visit to South Carolina. This was our first time eating at Carrabba's. Here are our general impressions: * Lots of parking. * Nice atmosphere and decor. * Chain Italian restaurant (like Olive Garden, Buca de Beppo and Macaroni Grill). * Table bread served with olive oil and herbs. Didn't really like the herbs, so we just had the olive oil. Kind of like the balsamic vinegar and olive oil combo at Buca de Beppo better. * My wife had the Fettuccini Carraba (pasta with chicken, mushrooms and peas). Flavor was OK. * I had the Pollo La Scala (chicken with white wine, mascarpone and red bell pepper sauce). Flavor was OK, but the potion size was quite small relative to the price ($14.99). * My 3 year old daughters shared a serving of the kids mac and cheese. They inhaled it, so we asked for another order. The second order took FOREVER to arrive. By the time we got it, the girls had lost interest and we wound up taking it home untouched. Bit of a waste as they didn't touch it when we warmed it up the next day either. * BIG NEGATIVE: Waitress was unpleasant and surly.
(2)
Andi H.
I've always wanted to go to the restaurant with the trees and Friday we went for dinner at Carrabbas. We ordered the house Pinot Grigio and munched on the table bread until our orders arrived. I had the Chicken Bryan with zucchini as a side per the waitresses recommendation and I could not have been happier. Even when it arrived I was skeptical but the goat cheese and tomatoes mixed with the lemon garlic sauce was the perfect tangy/creamy mix. My boyfriend had the sirloin Marsala with a side of fettuccini Alfredo and he was a member of the clean plate club. Our waitress was very attentive and we can't wait to go back and try the other menu choices like the new chicken dish with fig sauce.
(4)
Andy M.
Were visiting the area and decided to have dinner here. I order some kind of Sicilian Chicken Soup . . . . . .It had about 1/4 cup of broth and the rest noodles, chicken, vegetables, etc. . . . I'm sorry but I'm all about the broth. I had 5 - 6 spoonfulls and that was it. Then ordered the Ravioli. . . . in a red gravy. Not good - tasted like it was from the frozen section of the grocery store. I've had much better elsewhere - heard the pizza was good here. Maybe we just ordered wrong.
(2)
Erik G.
Everything was excellent, minus the salad. Pasta Weesie was ridiculously good. Happy hour was great....2.50 for a captain and coke
(4)
Mia C.
Only Carrabba's I have been to. Even though it is a chain restaurant, it is way better than Olive Garden.
(5)
Maja M.
Love this place! The food is great. My favorite thing on the menu is the Cozze in Bianco(steamed mussels) which is one of their antipasti dishes. The atmosphere & decor are also very appealing. Great for a romantic date night, dinner out with the girls, or even if you want to drop in solo. If going solo I recommend sitting at the pasta bar. At the pasta bar you can watch them make all the dishes & also get a little sample. Watching the cooks at work is entertaining. I didn't give it 5 stars b/c sometimes the food can take a bit long to come out. Plus I wish they had the complementary salad like at Olive Garden
(4)
Dennis M.
Ordered the pork tenderloin medallions and zucchini strips and it was outstanding. Had a large party and everyone seemed very content with their meals. Was seated very quickly and waitress was very nice and helpful. Enjoyed the evening very much. Good job Carrabbas
(4)
Murray M.
This place is the typical chain restaurant that is ubiquitous in the Irmo suburbs of Columbia. It's difficult to find a place in this area to eat that's not a chain. Therefore, the prices here are higher than local places I've eaten in Boston and NYC, for example, that had much better food. The most recent time I came here was for Mother's Day in 2014, and I ordered the spaghetti, because it's kind of hard to mess up spaghetti. Unfortunately, Carrabba's managed to mess it up as it was very watery, and I'm guessing they didn't drain the noodles. I ended up eating about two bites, and they offered me extra sauce to take home. Honestly, in my opinion, SpaghettiOs in the can are better than the spaghetti was here at Carrabba's, and SpaghettiOs are much cheaper. My mom, though, did enjoy her food. Overall, I do think this place is way overrated and overpriced. I'm giving two stars instead of one because the service is good, and it's not their fault that they're a chain.
(2)
Jaime M.
excellent food and service. take out service is always super fast and they bring it to your car.
(4)
Brittany and Tim L.
very good food. way better than olive garden except maybe the bread sticks. i got grilled shrimp and scallops in a garlic wine butter sauce and they just melted in my mouth they were so tender and perfectly cooked. my husband got the pork chops and put it this way he didn't even share one bite and he ate them without stopping for air. I just wish they had bread sticks. they have a loft of bread with a herb and olive oil dipping sauce that is good don't get me wrong. Prices are the same as many chain Italian places but the quality in the food doesn't say chain restaurant. This is a must go.
(5)
Dale E.
The staff is always fast and courteous. The food is always top notch! When I say the food I mean the pork chop marsala because that's all I ever get but friends and family say everything is good. I like the tiramisu when I save enough room for it
(5)
Megan P.
Carrabbas is the best Italian chain restaurant in the area. I usually pick Carrabbas for my birthday dinner, and special occasions, because it does cost a few more bucks to eat here. I use to always get the pollo rosa Maria, which is chicken stuffed with prosciutto and fontina. I really liked it. I joined the amici club, and was invited to a tasting of menu items and potential menu items, where I met my new favorite dish. Chicken Bryan, chicken topped with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and lemon butter sauce. I've since tried their version of Mac and cheese, which was cheesy, but not my thing. Their service is always pretty good, but last night we hit the jackpot with our server, Summer. She was not standing by the table the whole night, but she made sure our drinks were full and any dirty plates were picked up! Save a few bucks by dining on Monday nights for the amore Monday menu with 3 course deals starting at 12$
(5)
Wes C.
Like most carabba`s ,the food and atmosphere are the same and pleasant. My only complaint was that the waitress poured an entire beer on my daughter. The waitress was very apologetic but maybe I am asking to much for a manager to stop by and see if everything is ok.
(2)
Kimberly M.
The food was absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow and the server dropped a drink on my daughter, but she apologized and was super sweet overall. The atmosphere was relaxing and pleasant. I love the trees on the roof outside! You would never guess this is a chain restaurant. The food is authentic.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No 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 : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Maja M.
Love this place! The food is great. My favorite thing on the menu is the Cozze in Bianco(steamed mussels) which is one of their antipasti dishes. The atmosphere & decor are also very appealing. Great for a romantic date night, dinner out with the girls, or even if you want to drop in solo. If going solo I recommend sitting at the pasta bar. At the pasta bar you can watch them make all the dishes & also get a little sample. Watching the cooks at work is entertaining. I didn't give it 5 stars b/c sometimes the food can take a bit long to come out. Plus I wish they had the complementary salad like at Olive Garden
(4)Dennis M.
Ordered the pork tenderloin medallions and zucchini strips and it was outstanding. Had a large party and everyone seemed very content with their meals. Was seated very quickly and waitress was very nice and helpful. Enjoyed the evening very much. Good job Carrabbas
(4)Murray M.
This place is the typical chain restaurant that is ubiquitous in the Irmo suburbs of Columbia. It's difficult to find a place in this area to eat that's not a chain. Therefore, the prices here are higher than local places I've eaten in Boston and NYC, for example, that had much better food. The most recent time I came here was for Mother's Day in 2014, and I ordered the spaghetti, because it's kind of hard to mess up spaghetti. Unfortunately, Carrabba's managed to mess it up as it was very watery, and I'm guessing they didn't drain the noodles. I ended up eating about two bites, and they offered me extra sauce to take home. Honestly, in my opinion, SpaghettiOs in the can are better than the spaghetti was here at Carrabba's, and SpaghettiOs are much cheaper. My mom, though, did enjoy her food. Overall, I do think this place is way overrated and overpriced. I'm giving two stars instead of one because the service is good, and it's not their fault that they're a chain.
(2)Jaime M.
excellent food and service. take out service is always super fast and they bring it to your car.
(4)Erik G.
Everything was excellent, minus the salad. Pasta Weesie was ridiculously good. Happy hour was great....2.50 for a captain and coke
(4)Mia C.
Only Carrabba's I have been to. Even though it is a chain restaurant, it is way better than Olive Garden.
(5)Dale E.
The staff is always fast and courteous. The food is always top notch! When I say the food I mean the pork chop marsala because that's all I ever get but friends and family say everything is good. I like the tiramisu when I save enough room for it
(5)Jason R.
Can't say anything bad. Service and food is top notch. I mostly snag a spot at or in the bar area to avoid the wait. Service is slightly better in the dining room, but I'm splitting hairs here. Selection behind the bar is limited, but the wine list is decent and affordable.
(4)Jasminn W.
This was the first location I went to when I first visited a Carrabbas! Excellent staff. Nice atmosphere. Great place to take someone if you are trying to impress. The food is delicious and the waiters/waitresses are extra courteous.
(5)John G.
What a great experience this place is. The staff and the food are both top quality. The Chicken Marsala is great and the steak isn't bad either. From the calamari appetizers to the fabulous desserts, I can say this is one of my favorite places to dine in Columbia. Very friendly and attentive staff really make this restaurant stand out!
(5)Scott G.
I used to work here and can personally say that after working I several kitchens in Columbia, Carrabbas truly does have some of the highest quality food I have seen. Two kinds of fresh pasta, real seasonings, scratch made soups and salad dressings, and on the right nights when Phil is on the grill, probably one of the best steaks in Columbia. Really busy Friday nights from 6:30- 8, be ready to wait or call ahead and have half the wait time.
(5)Monkee C.
After making the mistake of trying to go to the mall on the Saturday before Christmas, sig-o and I stopped here for dinner because it was closest from the mall parking lot. Neither of us had been to one before; I figured it couldn't be worse than a run of the mill Olive Garden. *Much* better than any OG I've been to...actually lumping them together in the same category borders on insulting. The food and atmosphere are several steps nicer for not much more cash money. The calamari, mozzarella sticks, and bruchette are easily among the best from a "chain" restaurant I've had, especially the calamari...lightly fried, not oily or rubbery. Even their bread and evoo/herbs were a cut above the norm. For our entrees we ordered a gnocchi special, which had an especially tasty fennel sausage (who doesn't like sausage?) and their spiedino di mare, which is (quoting their menu) "Shrimp and sea scallops coated with Italian breadcrumbs, grilled and topped with lemon butter sauce". So, definitely worth a stop if you are feeling in the mood for Italian fare without the higher prices of a standalone joint or the mass-market "Italian" from OG type places.
(4)Brian M.
I don't know that this really compares to authentic Italian food. The Pasta "Wheesie" might be a giveaway. Nonetheless it was well prepared and I appreciated that the shrimp was not over done. For the food I would have just left it at 2 stars. The staff gives it the extra star. They were friendly and helpful. Not too many times does the bar tender introduce themselves formally with a handshake. Not something you find in Portland.
(3)Brittany and Tim L.
very good food. way better than olive garden except maybe the bread sticks. i got grilled shrimp and scallops in a garlic wine butter sauce and they just melted in my mouth they were so tender and perfectly cooked. my husband got the pork chops and put it this way he didn't even share one bite and he ate them without stopping for air. I just wish they had bread sticks. they have a loft of bread with a herb and olive oil dipping sauce that is good don't get me wrong. Prices are the same as many chain Italian places but the quality in the food doesn't say chain restaurant. This is a must go.
(5)Ramon S.
I had the chicken Brian and my girlfriend had the fettuccine. The food was delicious. The margarita was inexpensive and delicious. I will definitely come back again. Don't waste your time and money at Olive Garden.
(5)Lars G.
Typical chain dreck. Boy-R-Dee pasta dishes not worth having here. But, that's true of most chains that try to pass themselves off as Italian restaurants. Italian cuisine is so much more than marinara on noodles. It is a subtle creature that must be handled with a gentle touch to meld the nuances of roasted aromatics with the sweet yet acidic overtones of vine ripened fruit. If you are considering going to this place, you might as well dump some ketchup on some ground beef with garlic salt. You'll get about the same level of enjoyment.
(1)A S.
Service was great! Food was good! Reminded me of Olive Garden, but a bit of an upgrade!
(3)Kimberly M.
The food was absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow and the server dropped a drink on my daughter, but she apologized and was super sweet overall. The atmosphere was relaxing and pleasant. I love the trees on the roof outside! You would never guess this is a chain restaurant. The food is authentic.
(4)Grace M.
For a chain restaurant this place is good. I prefer sitting at the bar area rather than a table. Billy the bartender provides exceptional service when you sit AT the bar, and not the booths or high tops in the bar area. I enjoy their salads and soups, and their calamari is good. Since I'm a pasta lover, I typically like venturing out and trying new things each time I'm there. I just tried their cannolis for the first time last night and needless to say, I was somewhat impressed. The pistachios are what made me want to try it (usually I go for the tiramisu). It's in a prime location because it's close to the mall and the movies.
(3)Ishah T.
We arrived and decided to eat outside so went inside to have someone seat us. The greeter informed us it is first come first serve outside (no biggy cause it's not that busy) but we waited for 15 before we got our water and order taken. The next couple that came was actually seated and given silver ware and menus by the same greeter who said it was first come first serve.The soup was over cooked and the veggies were mushy. We ran out of water and they didn't bring more bread after it was finished. Overall in this instance the service was not great and the food unremarkable outside of saying it was bland and over cooked. Won't be going back to this location for a while.
(2)Maryann G.
My husband and I ate here last night.His meal was the simple pasta with meat balls .He enjoyed it.I had the shrimp and scallops with Vodka sauce.It was not good the scallops tasted like soap or iodine as the waitress said the chef said.His explanation was because the scallops were small and cooked in the sauce,they taste like that. Had a manager been a gracious host and came to the table to see how every thing was this would have been said in person not as a bad review.
(1)Ryan C.
This was my and my boyfriends first visit and absolutely enjoyed it. Had the antipasti platter and chicken Bryan was melt in your mouth. There was no wait time to get a table and our waitress who was also the bartender was very pleasant and helpful. We will be going back again. I think this is gonna become a regular date spot for us.
(5)Angelo A.
Had dinner here during our recent visit to South Carolina. This was our first time eating at Carrabba's. Here are our general impressions: * Lots of parking. * Nice atmosphere and decor. * Chain Italian restaurant (like Olive Garden, Buca de Beppo and Macaroni Grill). * Table bread served with olive oil and herbs. Didn't really like the herbs, so we just had the olive oil. Kind of like the balsamic vinegar and olive oil combo at Buca de Beppo better. * My wife had the Fettuccini Carraba (pasta with chicken, mushrooms and peas). Flavor was OK. * I had the Pollo La Scala (chicken with white wine, mascarpone and red bell pepper sauce). Flavor was OK, but the potion size was quite small relative to the price ($14.99). * My 3 year old daughters shared a serving of the kids mac and cheese. They inhaled it, so we asked for another order. The second order took FOREVER to arrive. By the time we got it, the girls had lost interest and we wound up taking it home untouched. Bit of a waste as they didn't touch it when we warmed it up the next day either. * BIG NEGATIVE: Waitress was unpleasant and surly.
(2)Andi H.
I've always wanted to go to the restaurant with the trees and Friday we went for dinner at Carrabbas. We ordered the house Pinot Grigio and munched on the table bread until our orders arrived. I had the Chicken Bryan with zucchini as a side per the waitresses recommendation and I could not have been happier. Even when it arrived I was skeptical but the goat cheese and tomatoes mixed with the lemon garlic sauce was the perfect tangy/creamy mix. My boyfriend had the sirloin Marsala with a side of fettuccini Alfredo and he was a member of the clean plate club. Our waitress was very attentive and we can't wait to go back and try the other menu choices like the new chicken dish with fig sauce.
(4)Andy M.
Were visiting the area and decided to have dinner here. I order some kind of Sicilian Chicken Soup . . . . . .It had about 1/4 cup of broth and the rest noodles, chicken, vegetables, etc. . . . I'm sorry but I'm all about the broth. I had 5 - 6 spoonfulls and that was it. Then ordered the Ravioli. . . . in a red gravy. Not good - tasted like it was from the frozen section of the grocery store. I've had much better elsewhere - heard the pizza was good here. Maybe we just ordered wrong.
(2)Megan P.
Carrabbas is the best Italian chain restaurant in the area. I usually pick Carrabbas for my birthday dinner, and special occasions, because it does cost a few more bucks to eat here. I use to always get the pollo rosa Maria, which is chicken stuffed with prosciutto and fontina. I really liked it. I joined the amici club, and was invited to a tasting of menu items and potential menu items, where I met my new favorite dish. Chicken Bryan, chicken topped with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and lemon butter sauce. I've since tried their version of Mac and cheese, which was cheesy, but not my thing. Their service is always pretty good, but last night we hit the jackpot with our server, Summer. She was not standing by the table the whole night, but she made sure our drinks were full and any dirty plates were picked up! Save a few bucks by dining on Monday nights for the amore Monday menu with 3 course deals starting at 12$
(5)Wes C.
Like most carabba`s ,the food and atmosphere are the same and pleasant. My only complaint was that the waitress poured an entire beer on my daughter. The waitress was very apologetic but maybe I am asking to much for a manager to stop by and see if everything is ok.
(2)Lars G.
Typical chain dreck. Boy-R-Dee pasta dishes not worth having here. But, that's true of most chains that try to pass themselves off as Italian restaurants. Italian cuisine is so much more than marinara on noodles. It is a subtle creature that must be handled with a gentle touch to meld the nuances of roasted aromatics with the sweet yet acidic overtones of vine ripened fruit. If you are considering going to this place, you might as well dump some ketchup on some ground beef with garlic salt. You'll get about the same level of enjoyment.
(1)A S.
Service was great! Food was good! Reminded me of Olive Garden, but a bit of an upgrade!
(3)Ramon S.
I had the chicken Brian and my girlfriend had the fettuccine. The food was delicious. The margarita was inexpensive and delicious. I will definitely come back again. Don't waste your time and money at Olive Garden.
(5)Jason R.
Can't say anything bad. Service and food is top notch. I mostly snag a spot at or in the bar area to avoid the wait. Service is slightly better in the dining room, but I'm splitting hairs here. Selection behind the bar is limited, but the wine list is decent and affordable.
(4)Jasminn W.
This was the first location I went to when I first visited a Carrabbas! Excellent staff. Nice atmosphere. Great place to take someone if you are trying to impress. The food is delicious and the waiters/waitresses are extra courteous.
(5)John G.
What a great experience this place is. The staff and the food are both top quality. The Chicken Marsala is great and the steak isn't bad either. From the calamari appetizers to the fabulous desserts, I can say this is one of my favorite places to dine in Columbia. Very friendly and attentive staff really make this restaurant stand out!
(5)Scott G.
I used to work here and can personally say that after working I several kitchens in Columbia, Carrabbas truly does have some of the highest quality food I have seen. Two kinds of fresh pasta, real seasonings, scratch made soups and salad dressings, and on the right nights when Phil is on the grill, probably one of the best steaks in Columbia. Really busy Friday nights from 6:30- 8, be ready to wait or call ahead and have half the wait time.
(5)Monkee C.
After making the mistake of trying to go to the mall on the Saturday before Christmas, sig-o and I stopped here for dinner because it was closest from the mall parking lot. Neither of us had been to one before; I figured it couldn't be worse than a run of the mill Olive Garden. *Much* better than any OG I've been to...actually lumping them together in the same category borders on insulting. The food and atmosphere are several steps nicer for not much more cash money. The calamari, mozzarella sticks, and bruchette are easily among the best from a "chain" restaurant I've had, especially the calamari...lightly fried, not oily or rubbery. Even their bread and evoo/herbs were a cut above the norm. For our entrees we ordered a gnocchi special, which had an especially tasty fennel sausage (who doesn't like sausage?) and their spiedino di mare, which is (quoting their menu) "Shrimp and sea scallops coated with Italian breadcrumbs, grilled and topped with lemon butter sauce". So, definitely worth a stop if you are feeling in the mood for Italian fare without the higher prices of a standalone joint or the mass-market "Italian" from OG type places.
(4)Brian M.
I don't know that this really compares to authentic Italian food. The Pasta "Wheesie" might be a giveaway. Nonetheless it was well prepared and I appreciated that the shrimp was not over done. For the food I would have just left it at 2 stars. The staff gives it the extra star. They were friendly and helpful. Not too many times does the bar tender introduce themselves formally with a handshake. Not something you find in Portland.
(3)Grace M.
For a chain restaurant this place is good. I prefer sitting at the bar area rather than a table. Billy the bartender provides exceptional service when you sit AT the bar, and not the booths or high tops in the bar area. I enjoy their salads and soups, and their calamari is good. Since I'm a pasta lover, I typically like venturing out and trying new things each time I'm there. I just tried their cannolis for the first time last night and needless to say, I was somewhat impressed. The pistachios are what made me want to try it (usually I go for the tiramisu). It's in a prime location because it's close to the mall and the movies.
(3)Ishah T.
We arrived and decided to eat outside so went inside to have someone seat us. The greeter informed us it is first come first serve outside (no biggy cause it's not that busy) but we waited for 15 before we got our water and order taken. The next couple that came was actually seated and given silver ware and menus by the same greeter who said it was first come first serve.The soup was over cooked and the veggies were mushy. We ran out of water and they didn't bring more bread after it was finished. Overall in this instance the service was not great and the food unremarkable outside of saying it was bland and over cooked. Won't be going back to this location for a while.
(2)Maryann G.
My husband and I ate here last night.His meal was the simple pasta with meat balls .He enjoyed it.I had the shrimp and scallops with Vodka sauce.It was not good the scallops tasted like soap or iodine as the waitress said the chef said.His explanation was because the scallops were small and cooked in the sauce,they taste like that. Had a manager been a gracious host and came to the table to see how every thing was this would have been said in person not as a bad review.
(1)Ryan C.
This was my and my boyfriends first visit and absolutely enjoyed it. Had the antipasti platter and chicken Bryan was melt in your mouth. There was no wait time to get a table and our waitress who was also the bartender was very pleasant and helpful. We will be going back again. I think this is gonna become a regular date spot for us.
(5)Angelo A.
Had dinner here during our recent visit to South Carolina. This was our first time eating at Carrabba's. Here are our general impressions: * Lots of parking. * Nice atmosphere and decor. * Chain Italian restaurant (like Olive Garden, Buca de Beppo and Macaroni Grill). * Table bread served with olive oil and herbs. Didn't really like the herbs, so we just had the olive oil. Kind of like the balsamic vinegar and olive oil combo at Buca de Beppo better. * My wife had the Fettuccini Carraba (pasta with chicken, mushrooms and peas). Flavor was OK. * I had the Pollo La Scala (chicken with white wine, mascarpone and red bell pepper sauce). Flavor was OK, but the potion size was quite small relative to the price ($14.99). * My 3 year old daughters shared a serving of the kids mac and cheese. They inhaled it, so we asked for another order. The second order took FOREVER to arrive. By the time we got it, the girls had lost interest and we wound up taking it home untouched. Bit of a waste as they didn't touch it when we warmed it up the next day either. * BIG NEGATIVE: Waitress was unpleasant and surly.
(2)Andi H.
I've always wanted to go to the restaurant with the trees and Friday we went for dinner at Carrabbas. We ordered the house Pinot Grigio and munched on the table bread until our orders arrived. I had the Chicken Bryan with zucchini as a side per the waitresses recommendation and I could not have been happier. Even when it arrived I was skeptical but the goat cheese and tomatoes mixed with the lemon garlic sauce was the perfect tangy/creamy mix. My boyfriend had the sirloin Marsala with a side of fettuccini Alfredo and he was a member of the clean plate club. Our waitress was very attentive and we can't wait to go back and try the other menu choices like the new chicken dish with fig sauce.
(4)Andy M.
Were visiting the area and decided to have dinner here. I order some kind of Sicilian Chicken Soup . . . . . .It had about 1/4 cup of broth and the rest noodles, chicken, vegetables, etc. . . . I'm sorry but I'm all about the broth. I had 5 - 6 spoonfulls and that was it. Then ordered the Ravioli. . . . in a red gravy. Not good - tasted like it was from the frozen section of the grocery store. I've had much better elsewhere - heard the pizza was good here. Maybe we just ordered wrong.
(2)Erik G.
Everything was excellent, minus the salad. Pasta Weesie was ridiculously good. Happy hour was great....2.50 for a captain and coke
(4)Mia C.
Only Carrabba's I have been to. Even though it is a chain restaurant, it is way better than Olive Garden.
(5)Maja M.
Love this place! The food is great. My favorite thing on the menu is the Cozze in Bianco(steamed mussels) which is one of their antipasti dishes. The atmosphere & decor are also very appealing. Great for a romantic date night, dinner out with the girls, or even if you want to drop in solo. If going solo I recommend sitting at the pasta bar. At the pasta bar you can watch them make all the dishes & also get a little sample. Watching the cooks at work is entertaining. I didn't give it 5 stars b/c sometimes the food can take a bit long to come out. Plus I wish they had the complementary salad like at Olive Garden
(4)Dennis M.
Ordered the pork tenderloin medallions and zucchini strips and it was outstanding. Had a large party and everyone seemed very content with their meals. Was seated very quickly and waitress was very nice and helpful. Enjoyed the evening very much. Good job Carrabbas
(4)Murray M.
This place is the typical chain restaurant that is ubiquitous in the Irmo suburbs of Columbia. It's difficult to find a place in this area to eat that's not a chain. Therefore, the prices here are higher than local places I've eaten in Boston and NYC, for example, that had much better food. The most recent time I came here was for Mother's Day in 2014, and I ordered the spaghetti, because it's kind of hard to mess up spaghetti. Unfortunately, Carrabba's managed to mess it up as it was very watery, and I'm guessing they didn't drain the noodles. I ended up eating about two bites, and they offered me extra sauce to take home. Honestly, in my opinion, SpaghettiOs in the can are better than the spaghetti was here at Carrabba's, and SpaghettiOs are much cheaper. My mom, though, did enjoy her food. Overall, I do think this place is way overrated and overpriced. I'm giving two stars instead of one because the service is good, and it's not their fault that they're a chain.
(2)Jaime M.
excellent food and service. take out service is always super fast and they bring it to your car.
(4)Brittany and Tim L.
very good food. way better than olive garden except maybe the bread sticks. i got grilled shrimp and scallops in a garlic wine butter sauce and they just melted in my mouth they were so tender and perfectly cooked. my husband got the pork chops and put it this way he didn't even share one bite and he ate them without stopping for air. I just wish they had bread sticks. they have a loft of bread with a herb and olive oil dipping sauce that is good don't get me wrong. Prices are the same as many chain Italian places but the quality in the food doesn't say chain restaurant. This is a must go.
(5)Dale E.
The staff is always fast and courteous. The food is always top notch! When I say the food I mean the pork chop marsala because that's all I ever get but friends and family say everything is good. I like the tiramisu when I save enough room for it
(5)Megan P.
Carrabbas is the best Italian chain restaurant in the area. I usually pick Carrabbas for my birthday dinner, and special occasions, because it does cost a few more bucks to eat here. I use to always get the pollo rosa Maria, which is chicken stuffed with prosciutto and fontina. I really liked it. I joined the amici club, and was invited to a tasting of menu items and potential menu items, where I met my new favorite dish. Chicken Bryan, chicken topped with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes, and lemon butter sauce. I've since tried their version of Mac and cheese, which was cheesy, but not my thing. Their service is always pretty good, but last night we hit the jackpot with our server, Summer. She was not standing by the table the whole night, but she made sure our drinks were full and any dirty plates were picked up! Save a few bucks by dining on Monday nights for the amore Monday menu with 3 course deals starting at 12$
(5)Wes C.
Like most carabba`s ,the food and atmosphere are the same and pleasant. My only complaint was that the waitress poured an entire beer on my daughter. The waitress was very apologetic but maybe I am asking to much for a manager to stop by and see if everything is ok.
(2)Kimberly M.
The food was absolutely delicious! The service was a little slow and the server dropped a drink on my daughter, but she apologized and was super sweet overall. The atmosphere was relaxing and pleasant. I love the trees on the roof outside! You would never guess this is a chain restaurant. The food is authentic.
(4)