Feature Photo: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com
If you travel Route 347 on Long Island in the town of Smithtown, you might have come across Carrabba’s Italian Grill. If you’re an Italian food lover living close to this area of Long Island, you’ve probably been there numerous times. As a New Yorker, I’m always happy to find a restaurant worth visiting. Carrabba’s, a chain restaurant, is known for its authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant is actually located in Nesconset which is part of the Smithtown township
Everyone I know that has eaten at Carrabba’s have all mentioned that the food is fresh and delicious, with standout dishes including the Caesar salad, garlic mashed potatoes, and Spiedino Di Mare. Some have also mentioned the attentive and friendly staff and the comfortable and intimate atmosphere at this location. But what’s the story behind all of this?
The Mandola family owns and operates the restaurant, a group of Sicilian Americans who have been in the restaurant business since the early 1900s. According to the manager, the family has always been passionate about food and sharing their love of Italian cuisine with others. It was opened by Damian’s parents, Johnny and Grace Mandola, in the 1990s. The restaurant has been a staple in the Smithtown community for over two decades, serving authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Damian and his brother, Damian Jr., now run the restaurant and continue to uphold the family’s traditions and values in the kitchen. The menu features a mix of traditional Sicilian dishes and some Creole and Southern influences, reflecting the family’s diverse culinary background.
At Carrabba’s, the Mandola family is dedicated to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can come together to enjoy delicious food and great company. The restaurant is a place where the family’s love of food and culture is celebrated and shared with others. It’s located at 730 Smithtown Bypass in Smithtown, NY, a spot I find to be perfect for a quick family dinner or a night out with friends.
A couple of years back, I went to this birthday party and enjoyed an amazing meal ordered from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The food was fresh and delicious, with perfectly cooked pasta and a melt-in-your-mouth wood-fired steak. It was so good that I found myself craving it for days after.
On my way from work in the afternoon, I decided to stop by Carrabba’s Italian Grill and pick up a take-out meal to bring home. They have a great take-out system. You pull right up to the spots that are designated for takeout right next to the side door. They are always extremely friendly when they bring out the food, and always know when you are there. I ordered a Caesar salad, a serving of garlic mashed potatoes, and the Spiedino Di Mare, which is a skewer of grilled shrimp and scallops with a lemon butter sauce.
The Caesar salad was fresh and crunchy, with a tangy dressing and generous Parmesan cheese. The garlic mashed potatoes were creamy and flavorful, and the Spiedino Di Mare was perfectly cooked. The shrimp and scallops were tender and juicy, and the lemon butter sauce added a nice citrusy touch. I was really impressed by the quality of the food and the attention to detail in the presentation.
After a few more take-out orders, I decided to dine in at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with cozy booths and soft lighting. It’s a bit dark inside, something some people might not like, but I find it to be quite romantic and relaxing. The table arrangement is convenient, especially if you’re in a group. The service is appraisable. Even though the waiters can sometimes be a bit slow, they are always friendly and attentive. The communication with them is good, and the food comes out in a reasonable time. However, sometimes you have to wait over 30 minutes just to get your drinks.
The Caesar salad was just as good as I remembered, with crisp lettuce and a tangy dressing. The sautéed spinach was perfectly cooked with a garlic butter sauce that added a nice savory flavor. The Spiedino Di Mare was delicious, with perfectly grilled shrimp, scallops, and a tangy lemon butter sauce. I was really impressed by the quality of the food and the attention to detail in the presentation.
They have a quick and easy online ordering system, which is great for busy people. Their pricing is relatively reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and the generous portions.
This is the place to get the famous Rigatoni Campagnolo and Fettuccine Weesie. They know to give it their signature Italian touch. Try the Vegetable Ravioli with asparagus, roasted peppers, and Portobello mushrooms for something unique. If you’re in the mood for seafood, the Cozze in Bianco is something to try. I wouldn’t, though, recommend the Chicken Parmesan sandwich. A couple of my friends ordered it, and it was a bit dry and lacking flavor.
Is it family-friendly? Yes. The atmosphere is perfect for a family dinner, with an open and spacious dining area that’s great for kids. They also have a fun and interactive kids’ menu, with fun dishes like Chicken Fingers. The Family Bundle Deal is another great option, with a choice of pasta or pizza and an option to add extras like drinks and desserts. What are the customers saying about Carrabba’s Italian Grill In Smithtown? (avoid repeating anything written above. Write both positives and negatives. Give an honest, believable story. 3 paragraphs long)
Most customers seem to have had a positive experience at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Smithtown. Most of those who have left reviews report that the food is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Customers also appreciate the friendly and attentive staff and the cozy and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant is also praised for its reasonable prices, generous portions, and quick online ordering system.
Considering the majority of reviews are positive and my own personal experiences at the restaurant, it’s safe to say, Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Smithtown is a great place to enjoy a delicious Italian meal in a casual, comfortable atmosphere. The food is always fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable. Plus, the quick online ordering system makes it easy for customers to get their meals quickly.
Address: 730 Smithtown Bypass Smithtown, NY 11787
Website: https://locations.carrabbas.com/new-york/smithtown/730-smithtown-bypass
