Reviews Carmen's Italian Cafe

5
Becky S.
+5
My parents and I are here and had the best meal and best time! Carmens was so good! We came in for an early dinner so it's wasn't crowded. We were greeted nicely by the gentleman who would be our waiter. He answered all our questions and let us know about some specials for appetizers and entrees. While we noshed on warm fresh sliced bread dipped in a yummy olive oil herb dip I debated between the hand-breaded mozzarella sticks and the meatballs. Meatballs won!They were so tender and juicy, so well seasoned and the creamy ricotta(?) perfect marinara and crispy crostini put it over the top great! Next, we were served a salad with house dressing. And I ordered the caramel apple martini. Delicious! The apple martini with the sugar rim comes through first and then the caramel flavor develops on your tongue that leaves you with a not too sweet, but delightful flavor. Now for the main course my parents got their favorite dish the veal and chicken marsala's and they did not disappoint! I went a little out of my comfort zone and ordered the Chicken alla Carmen. The chicken was thin and tender I could easily cut it with my fork! The sauce clung to it like velvet as it did to the mushrooms and artichoke hearts and finished with lemon! Now this is not meant to be a pasta dish per se,but it was nice to have some spaghetti underneath so that none of the sauce was wasted.. and even after everything else, I happily ate the whole thing! Talking with Carmen about Maryland, restaurants and family was fun. He is one of a kind! ☺️ Finally, we decided have a look at the dessert tray, my parents chose the tiramisu which was perfectly soft and whipped and espresso-y, while I fully enjoyed the Torta de Nonna, with it's flaky tart shell, not to tart lemon custard center and finished with pine nuts and almonds and a good dusting of confectioners sugar *chef's kiss* the perfect end to a fabulous meal!
5
Mitch Anderson
+5
We visited Carmine’s for the first time last night. It was amazing! The service was very good and the food was even better. Family owned and operated. Our server was attentive and very informative. Our entrees came with garden salad with the most amazing homemade dressing and the house made bread was fabulous. Our entrees were cooked to perfection with the best flavors. We highly recommend and will be back.
5
stephen webb
+5
This place is awesome a small cafe you need in your life food is amazing Carmen the owner and chef will visit dineing room to meet his customers perfect gentleman the lobster special made with a lot of love over the top a must try a true hidden gem.
5
Antoine Thompson
+5
Best authentic Italian food you could ever eat. Everything is cooked to order. Where can you go in Italy and get fast Italian cuisine in a hurry. It takes a little time to prep your tummy for an amazing meal. It’s worth every minute you wait. I’ve been eating here for the past 5 years —no where comes close. Prices are what you pay for excellent food trust me you won’t get this at a fast food place or run of the mill commercial chains. Family owned pleasant atmosphere for the entire family. Come in and share the Italian cuisine experience. 5 plus stars.
4
Christine Smith
+4
We were celebrating a birthday and sat at booth( 4 in party). Our meals were tasty and the waiter was very patient and attentive to our needs. We even asked for several wine tastings before ordering a bottle. The 3 Chicken Marsalas was liked by all; the chicken tender and flavorful w/ mushrooms and pasta and the Eggplant Rollatini was tasty. Will return for dinner again and would recommend.
5
DA S
+5
Carmen’s is a favorite dining experience for The Funcles! Everything is made to order, so we get to enjoy an evening of talking, sharing and eating delicious food. Don’t come to Carmen’s if you are in a hurry. This is a restaurant experience that is made for relaxing and savoring the food and company.
5
gfull13
+5
We have a delicious meal at Carmen's. This place is the real deal home made authentic Italian food. My daughter kept saying this is the best place she has ever been! We will absolutely be going back for several more meals!
5
Joan Rivera
+5
Appetizers, soup, salad, main course, and desert were the best Italian food I've had in a very long time. I especially enjoyed their 515 Martini. Most of all, Little Carmen was one of the best servers I've ever had. Thank you so much Little Carmen.
5
R S
+5
Absolutely delicious. Service was great. Food was exceptional. Wine list is definitely above average. If you are looking for a family owned real Italian restaurant with authentic dishes this is the place for you. Our family felt like we were back North (NYC/NJ) eating Nonni's homemade dishes. This will absolutely be our go to place!
5
Coleton Carter
+5
One of my favorite Italian restaurants in Bradenton. Always good service and the food never misses.
5
Andres Ramirez
+5
Awesome, AUTHENTIC Italian food! You will not be disappointed. Forget all other places in the area and come here!
4
Tom LaValley
+4
Brought the family to Carmen’s. The food was delicious and the staff was friendly and attentive. Definitely will be back.
5
Sydney Wolf
+5
On the night I went, there was only one waitress working the entire restaurant herself and she notified us of this when we came in. It was absolutely delicious and well worth the wait. Small businesses are struggling a lot right now for many reasons, low staffing included. This spot is a gem and absolutely shines if you allow the staff time. Sit back and relax, it’s a great atmosphere with very nice people and excellent food. Don’t give bad reviews, damaging this great restaurant’s reputation. If you have nothing productive or constructive to say, move on… Or better yet, get in the kitchen yourself and help.
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