Carrabba's Italian Grill

12/02/2007 Posted by lebturtle

My husband and I went to Carrabba’s for my birthday dinner last night. We had pre-picked the restaurant, but did not call ahead. Once we got there we were told that it would be a 35-45min wait (on a Saturday night). We waited in a very packed and uncomfortable waiting area for just about 45 min, this turned out to be the only not pleasant part of our experience. Once we were seated our waiter told us about the menu and took or order. He then placed very light and tasty bread and an olive oil and herb mixture (that was great!) on the table for us to eat. Our dinner came VERY quickly, which was amazing based on how busy the restaurant was. I had chicken/cheese/spinach ravioli with a tomato cream sauce. It was wonderful. My husband had lasagna, which he enjoyed very much. Both of the portions were big enough to take home leftovers. Overall we had a very nice experience at a good price.

Pros: Food, service, selection

Cons: Wait

08/25/2007 Posted by mannysteiner

We call Polaris and surrounds "Mindyland" because it reminds us of someone we knew that the area fits well. You won't see us there again, food was decent but you have to draw the line somewhere. In redemption, our experience was better at same in Florida. Go Gators.

0 out of 2 people found this review helpful

04/20/2006 Posted by kantek

I've been here numerous times and when someone is craving Italian food, this is the first place I think of. I'd really recommend the Calamari (Ask for both sauces on the side) and the Mussels as appetizers (Forget the name of it, sorry). The dishes are all great and portions are just right. I personally get the Pork Chop Marsala, which is a "Daily Special". I really can't say you can go wrong though, I've had/tasted a lot of their dishes and never thought any less of it. It's nice enough as a special occasion and casual enough as just a night out.

Pros: Great Food, Good Value

04/01/2005 Posted by mckenzy

Always pleased with the quality of the food coming from this restaurant chain concept. Most of the dishes are made-from-scratch in the handsome gourmet-like kitchen(s). Good helpful and enthusiastic people (trained and willing) as well. Wine list is affordable. A bit tough to find in the Polaris south complex (past Max & Erma's). Often crowded, but well worth the wait -- can sit at the kitchen counters (tight seating but fun to observe the food prep & bustle).

Pros: quality Italian foods, helpful service, decent wine prices

Cons: crowded, windy door in Winter, tight kitchen seats

03/07/2005 Posted by leighed

I recently dined at Carrabba's to celebrate my fiance's birthday. Right away, upon entering the restaurant, the interior surprised me. Above the booths hang grape vines and there is an open kitchen which makes the store feel more united. The menu is a little complicated, but our server, Kristen knew the menu and ingredients inside and out. I was torn between a signature dish and classic Italian, but with her help, I made the perfect choice. I ordered the Pollo Rosa Maria with fettuccini alfredo and an italian salad and my fiance got the Filet Marsala with mash potatoes and zucchini with the spicy chicken soup. It was the most amazing meal I have ever had. For dessert, (what seemed like) the entire staff sang an italian song and brought a compimentary sundae. Service is remarkable and the food superb.

Pros: Great Service, Authenic interior, Open Kitchen

Cons: Loud, Small Waiting area

02/05/2005 Posted by brendip

I'm from AZ, Carrabbas was the best Italian out there. I moved to Columbus in 2001, realized the closest Carrabbas was in Cincinnati, sob! I even drove to Cincinnati just to eat there. I was excited when I saw the Polaris location coming soon. The food is top notch, everything ordered has been great. Large portions as well. The Filet Fiorentine is the best steak I have ever had! The filet is the most expensive menu item at $21.00 which is not bad considering the quality and it's size, about 9 oz. The mussels and calamari are also great, huge portions easily enough for 4. Service is top notch and the ambience is comforting. Only con is no reservations, plan on waiting 45 minutes - 1 hour to get seated weekends but well worth the wait. I'm telling you, you will not be disappointed, just go there, see for yourself.

06/23/2004 Posted by capella28

It never ceases to amaze me. Most restaurants might have a good server or two. A couple of really good dishes. But this one takes the cake! Every time i have been there the servers have been fantastic! The food, no matter what i have tried has been fantastic as well. Be prepared to walk away full or walk away with doggie bags.

Pros: food,, clean bathrooms, service

02/07/2003 Posted by sharpe

Even though packed on the weekend is well worth the wait once you taste the food. From the basic italian Lasagne to the exquisite Chicken Marsala, this food is top notch.There are not many locations who offer true service, however this is one of them. The servers take the time needed to make you feel special and even on the busiest night you have someone from the kitchen inquiring if the food was to your liking. On busy nights, I have even seen the servers, inquiring if those patrons waiting would like anything from the bar.(yes they come to you, you don't have to stand at the bar) Now that is true old style service.I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone.

Pros: Good parking

Cons: crowded on weekends

01/22/2003 Posted by nballerina

I've been here twice - both times with a large group of people. The food and service are outstanding and apparently, I'm not the only one that thinks so because this place is always packed and therefore a little noisy. But, the food and great service make up for it. To me it's one step above the Macaroni Grill and a half a step below Bravo. I recommend making reservations ahead of time. When you go, be sure to order an Apple Martini - it's the best!!

Pros: Great Service, Great Food

Cons: Crowded