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"For the Love of the Food!"


There's an almost imperceptible hum that comes from the methodical chopping of just delivered fresh herbs and produce used in the day's sauces, soups and daily specials. Echoed by the soft cadence of swift steps back and forth from stove and cutting board. Here, there is a passion, respect and love for food—food prepared from scratch from recipes handed down over the generations that inspires those who love to cook and those who love to eat. This is a spirit and way of life passed down in a family who share an appreciation for wonderful food. It goes back to tradition and the pleasure of sharing a meal with family and friends.

Welcome to Carrabba's Italian Grill. The legacy of founders Johnny Carrabba and Damian Mandola, along with their parents and grandparents who have created the recipes now prepared by chefs and enjoyed by a legion of fans that fill the restaurants nightly.

Crates of fresh produce, seafood, herbs, meats and imported pasta and extra virgin olive oil are delivered to each kitchen daily. "It's not enough to have good ingredients," says Johnny Carrabba, "it's about ingredients that are great."

Carrabba's uses only the finest ingredients available, searching the world for mussels, rope grown off the coast of Prince Edward Island, Garofalo pasta imported from a small town outside Pompei, Italy, extra virgin olive oil from Spain, Canadian scallops and Genovese basil.

Just like the original kitchens from which these recipes descend, Carrabba's food is prepared with that day's meal in mind. Processed and pre-packaged are not found in Carrabba's vocabulary. What one finds simmering on stoves are sauces made by hand with fresh ingredients, prepared from recipes that both time and tastes continue to grace with favor.

Combined, the food and design of the restaurant provide timeless warmth. Coupled by the crisply attired, friendly and knowledgeable service staff; there is a feeling of genuine hospitality. The interiors glow with the earthy tones of the Tuscan countryside, and along with the restaurant's lively vibe, draw guests who love the welcoming atmosphere. Colorful Italian ceramics, copper pots and framed black and white photos of the Carrabba/Mandola clan enhance the familial feelings of the restaurant. The large exhibition kitchen, wood-fired grill and flickering embers from the pizza oven further enhance the bustling scene. Several prime seats fronting the open kitchen allow diners to watch as teams of chefs orchestrate plates prepared to order, full of antipasti, fresh grilled fish, seafood and meats, pasta and other classic Italian dishes. Pair any menu item with a glass of full-bodied Chianti and you have the quintessential night out.

Carrabba's timeless, family influenced recipes, the glorious flavors of Italy and the use of the finest ingredients make Carrabba's Italian Grill a favorite destination. Carrabba's follows the Italian tradition of keeping centuries-old recipes alive. It's about food that never goes out of style and the legacy of a family.