Sweetreviewer’s Blog

Carrabas.com

Carrabas was started by two Sicilians who came from Texas;Damian and Johnny. They say they aren’t “real chefs they just love to eat.” I thought that was rather amusing. I share the same insight. I love to cook and eat as well. Their inspiration for Carrabas was their grandparents cuisine.

In my venture of trying different cuisines, I decided to try Italian cuisine in the south west for the second time. I didn’t have a great experience the first time so I decided to give Italian food another chance. In New York where I am originally from, It’s very common to find so many Italian restaurants to choose from especially in little Italy.

I arrived at Carrabas in Tucson Arizona because of a recommendation.The decor was simple but elegant. Outside there’s a bench with a Tin man on top. I was seated immediately. I was asked by the waiter Ryan, if I wanted anything to drink I then asked what red wine he recommended. He proceeded to tell me that he would bring three red wines to taste and for me to choose from; I loved that idea! Not most restaurants offer that. He brought me a Chianti a Sangria and a Pinot Noir I chose a pitcher of Sangria to share with my companion although, I highly recommend the Pinot Noir It was so smooth. Then it came time for the appetizers the tomato and basil soup was superb. It was something indescribable but I will attempt to. When you first try it you simply want to keep tasting it, your taste-buds will be in awe when you do. You feel the basil and the creamy tomato its in between sweet and salty with a little tangy flavor. You’ll love it. After that we ordered our entrees. I chose the chicken Florentine which is not included in the menu it was one of the specials that day. The soup is chosen by the chef every day so it varies. My companion chose the lasagna which was superb. My entree was wonderful as well. The Manager came to say hello and we told him what a great place it was and what great food they had. He thanked us, and spoke for a while. We then received calamaris on the house. For dessert we were so full that we decided to go with shots of vanilla mousse and biscotti, I believe. We left very pleased with the food and the staff. I highly recommend it. You wouldn’t know it’s a chain restaurant. It does however, have a homier feel about it.

P.S. They also deliver, depending on the state you’re in.

(Source- Meet Damian and Johnny http://www.carrabbas.com/meet.aspx

~ by sweetreviewer on March 4, 2009.

Posted in Food and wine, Reviews
Tags: Arizona Restaurants, Carrabas Italian Grill, carrabas restaurant, Food and wine, Italian cuisine, Tucson Restaurants