A Trip to Italy at Carrabba’s Italian Grill

The Place: Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Location: 17007 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
Hours: Mon–Wed 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fri–Sat 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
By: Mackenzie Barrena

I have been Carrabba’s biggest fan for as long I can remember. Growing up, my family and I would venture into the Italian grill anytime we craved a taste of Italy. The atmosphere of the restaurant is incredibly warm and welcoming, and the smell of their authentic food fills the air in the dimly lit dining area. It has become a nostalgic, memory-filled environment for me, as I have spent many birthdays, anniversaries and countless dinners at Carrabba’s. Once you visit, I think you’ll fall in love with it too.

The mission of Carrabba’s is to make everyone feel as if they were at home. One of the owners, Damian Mandola, even incorporates recipes and dishes from his own family. Many of their most popular and signature dishes come from his mother and sister. These include Mezzaluna—tender raviolis filled with portobello and cremini mushrooms and ricotta cheese in a creamy Marsala wine sauce, ($13.99), and Chicken O’Brien—white chicken breast covered in sundried tomatoes, a famous cream wine sauce and goat cheese ($17.99). Mandola also frequently travels the world in search of new and fresh flavors for the restaurant. The chef preps fresh ingredients every morning; including the bread dough and pasta, and the food is cooked to perfection in their famously known wood burning grill.

The food is to die for at an affordable price. The menu has a long list of options, including an extensive wine list, and accommodates dietary needs for people who are gluten free or trying to consume less calories. They even made my favorite dish, Chicken Piccata—sauteed chicken breast smothered in a thick, lemon cream sauce and capers, even though it’s not on the menu ($14.99). Be sure to try my favorite dessert, their Sogno Di Cioccolata—a rich brownie dessert that melts into your mouth ($7.90).

For the younger ones, a wonderful selection of dishes is provided to enjoy and devour. Carrabba’s even offers balls of pizza dough to keep them entertained. The Italian grill is ever evolving and adding new dishes to their menu. Join the Amici Club, a membership that gives you access to cooking instructions, exclusive wine tasting events and many more benefits. They also offer a rewards program where you can receive 50% off every fourth meal you buy. Additionally, they have special deals, such as “Amore Monday”, where you can get a three-course dinner starting at $12.99.

Carrabba’s Italian Grill definitely surpasses their mission goal by making guests feel welcome and at home. They provide you with an extravagant trip to Italy, with nothing but the freshest ingredients and authentic dishes, and all at a very affordable price.

eat | drink | share | italian