I was craving for a good pasta but coming to Carlucci was a bad decision. I ordered ‘Radiatori’ which on the menu it is described as: garlic cream, grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, broccoli. This pasta is overwhelmingly cheesy, I could see the bottom of my plate was full of creamy cheese sauce which was very muddy. Every single bite of this pasta tasted very bad, it was a mix of bitterness(maybe because of the garlic) and super cheesy taste. My mouth was full of cream and I could not enjoy the grilled chickens and the broccoli because of how overwhelmingly the cream and the cheesy taste was. The service was good. On that day the chef actually ran an experiment of a new dessert and the server serve me a complimentary dessert to try. I really appreciated the complimentary dessert but unfortunately I could not give a good review for the dessert. This dessert is similar to panna cotta with a taste of goat cheese, with figs and(maybe) a bit walnuts on the top. The taste of the dessert was extremely extremely sweet. Both the pasta and dessert was not enjoyable at all. Sadly, I would not recommend this restaurant to anyone.
John V.
Classificação do local: 3 Bartlett, IL
What happen to the Monday $ 5 Pasta??? One of my favorite restaurants is changing. New management, new chef, new menu. While the quality is still there, it feels a bit different. We went there on Monday, expecting some of that delicious and very attractively priced $ 5 pasta. Unfortunately we were told there was a new chef and the $ 5 pasta went away. Of course they still have the same pastas on the menu, so that couldn’t be the reason. Hmmm? We opted for the pizzas. The portion of these is much too large for one person to eat. Had we been told in advance, we might have ordered differently. However they were good. It looks like most of our favorite dishes were still on the menu. That’s a good thing.
Steve A.
Classificação do local: 2 Glen Ellyn, IL
It was unfortunate that a excellent dinner was ruined by poor service. Our waiter — Auturo was more interested in the larger tables then us. He lost our salad order, which the management comped. During our whole dinner he never stopped at our table. It was always a question in passing, as to how our meal was, but not really stopping to check. He was quick to point out at the end of the meal that if we had to pay for the salad and the wine which we had a certificate for the actual cost of the meal. The restaurant was not really too busy, which I might have taken as a reason that our service was so poor. If and when we might go back, we will make sure that he is not our waiter.
Suzan V.
Classificação do local: 1 Aurora, IL
Just sat down and was told there is no way the chef here will make Chicken Parm! Are you serious? An Italian place without an Italian staple?! Last time here ever!
Chad C.
Classificação do local: 4 Glen Ellyn, IL
My wife had the roasted half chicken at an early dinner yesterday, and I ate the leftovers a half hour later. We ere both sick from it all night… Food poisoning. Update… The management staff contacted me and was extremely professional. She explained their rigorous food safety protocols, and frankly I was impressed with how they handled the situation. I suppose this could happen anywhere, but how they handled the issue made this establishment stand out as being top notch. Adding back 3 stars to my review, and I’ll be back again.
Rene F.
Classificação do local: 5 Park Ridge, IL
One of my favorite meals is the pasta served in the cheese block. We go here on special occasions. It’s very filling-so instead of getting the appetizer of it– get it for your meal. You can order it for the amount of people you have. You can not go wrong– it is fantastic. Great atmosphere here. The staff is always excellent too.
Jeffrey L.
Classificação do local: 1 Lombard, IL
Went for Valentines Day. Made reservations well in advance and still was put in the«overfill» room. I would’ve rather sat in the bar. The waiter was indifferent and didn’t even ask how the food was. Overall the food was ok. But not worth the price per entrée. The menu is very limited. The martinis were very good. In the summer the patio is very nice. But we’ve always experienced bad service. Probably will give them another try. But I will be more specific where we sit.
Kurt K.
Classificação do local: 2 Middletown, OH
The staff is outstanding. Wine was great. My opinion of the food is mediocre. I was not happy with the Cesar salad. Little dressing and the wilted leaves had not been pulled out. The diver s plops are a good choice — however I would ask the waiter to tell the chef to get rid of his salt shaker
Cindy M.
Classificação do local: 2 Tinley Park, IL
Overrated. Food just ok. Service was not the greatest. Our waiter had no personality and was not very attentive. Too many restaurants in the area to choose from. Will not go back.
Linda C.
Classificação do local: 3 Wheaton, IL
I have been here too many times to count. I had my daughters bridal shower here 8 years ago and I had my sons rehearsal dinner here 3 years ago. I have lunch and dinner here. I have been to a yearly fundraiser banquet as well. It used to be my favorite neighborhood Italian restaurant. About two weeks ago we decided to have a nice holiday dinner with friends. The atmosphere is so pretty here during The Christmas season. They decorate so tasteful it compliments their rich wood décor. After being seated we were given new menus. Unfortunately finding only a couple meals that were familiar. The manager was a making his rounds checking on tables we pointed out that we noticed a lot of new menu items. He said they have a new chef so they changed up the menu. He said they were getting mixed reviews and had not updated their online menu. We all were happy to try new menu meals. The appetizers were also different. We were told there would be 4 risotto balls in our order. There were three. Another appetizer had the same issue. Luckily with friends it doesn’t matter we just shared. The meal was ok. Not our typical experience we enjoyed over the years. The food was ok I think they tried to be more upscale serving rabbit and quail. Not really what we were looking for. The pastas we ordered were on the cool side not much flavor. It was more like they were throwing ingredients together to create something different that didn’t blend well. They also changed their bread basket. Just plain French bread. Not even warmed up. The manager said he would be back to see how we liked everything but he never did come back. We just would have told him that the wait staff needs to know the menu better. Also we would like more of their main pastas back. We will give Carlucci’s another chance in a couple months. We are not in a hurry to go back. Please bring back at least more of the old pasta dishes. As for a previous reviewer the Rancic family did dine here. They were friends with the previous manager.
Steve W.
Classificação do local: 3 Downers Grove, IL
Would be 2 stars if not for the outdoor area. Penny wine night is a joke… super gross wine that you instantly know will give you a wicked headache after more then one glass. Pasta tasted like it was from aisle 8/frozen section of jewel. I’d go back for normal wine on the patio during a nice day though.
Grant P.
Classificação do local: 4 Downers Grove, IL
This is my 400th review, so you know it has to be fancy. And nothing says fancy like Carlucci. I mean, Bill and Guiliana eat here, so that has to be fancy, right? You know I met them once. Twice actually, but they won’t remember if you ask them. And they didn’t actually tell me they ate here, it was on an episode of their show. Unless they just pulled one of those random stunts of showing an exterior of a different place to fool you like how the Kardashians use fake house exteriors for their homes. Wow, you’d think I watch a lot of these celebreality shows, but I really don’t. Also, this has to be one of my biggest distracted reviews in awhile. But again, it’s my 400th, so I get to be fancy, which brings me back to Carlucci. The interior is just beautiful with wood trim everywhere. We were seated at the loveliest table in the restaurant with a perfect view of the courtyard and fountain. Sidenote: I came here during a private event in the summer and got to experience sipping cocktails in the courtyard. That is something not to be missed. If you can come back during the warmer months I highly recommend sitting outside. The service was very friendly and kind. And the food was marvelous. I don’t bring that word out all that often so enjoy it. We had a round of drinks. I had some kind of ginger whiskey bourbon cocktail. Y’know, because I’m a ginger and I have to. It was so strong I’m still buzzing from it three days later. TBH I don’t recommend it because all you could taste was alcohol and nothing else. We had a couple of caesar salads that were the best I’d ever had. No joke. They grill up the prosciutto and wrap the romaine in it which is just lovely. They also throw on a few grape tomatoes and croutons, and drizzle a(I’m guessing) housemade dressing and shaved parm over the top. I would eat this as a meal it was so good. Next, my wife and I shared a couple of pasta dishes that were both delicious. I’m not going to go on about them because you should choose what you like. I’ll just say this. Everything I’ve ever eaten at Carlucci has been good, and I’d definitely return for a special occasion or fancy evening out. It’s on the easier side of pricey, but that’s to be expected. This is not the Olive Garden. I would definitely recommend you try it, and if you come visit me I’ll take you here for a fun night out.
Victoria O.
Classificação do local: 5 Downers Grove, IL
I really enjoy coming here for the happy hour. Great deal. Wonderful bartenders. I’ve never had bad service and the food is great. I enjoy the outdoor patio in the summer.
Leonard W.
Classificação do local: 4 Bellwood, IL
I had gotten a chance to sample a few of the items having attended this place a few months ago for a Unilocal elite event. This review however is based on my own experience. Lucky for me I came on Wednesday($ 5 Martini) during happy hour(4pm-7pm) I set at the bar. After ordering a Mango Martini I end up picking up one of the Happy Hour apps while at the bar but moved to be seated at a table. Cast Iron Shrimp/Jumbo Shrimp — Jumbo Shrimp Sautéed with Garlic, EVOO(Extra Virgin Olive Oil), Parsley, Capers and Lemon Juice with Toasted Ciabatta Bread. These were AMAZIG. Loved this. The EVOO and Lemon Juice was a tad salty on the Ciabatta. However they worked great on the shrimp. The Ciabatta were toasted but had a nice Smokey flavor on them. Although I started at the bar. It was a little bit depressing watching the bartender working so hard… also he was a over worked which meant slow to come to me and quick to leave without chatting. So opted to be seated in the regular dining area. Bread — I basically had two baskets worth of bread by myself. I basically blame the EVOO and Parmesan cheese. I believe there is three different versions of bread they serve you. Plan, onion/garlic and one with tomato on top. All of them are great. Peach Bellini — Picked up my second drink however despite being buzz and could care less the grade of alcohol at this point. I did enjoy the mango much more then this. one despite noticing a stronger poor in the Peach. Linguini Bobonato Con Parmigiano — Spooled Tableside Inside a Fresh Wheel of Parmesan Cheese with Prosciutto di Parma and Fresh Basil. I tend to not really like red sauce pasta as much so this is basically how I ended up ordering this. I was able to get a side of Parmesan crusted chicken added to accompany this dish. Although I wouldn’t do back flips for the pasta. I want mind coming here again to try them more from the menu. For some odd reason the place a mix of busy and empty at the same time.(two private parties that were section off but only about 3 tables out of 20 filled in the dinning area.)
Kevin B.
Classificação do local: 4 Shorewood, IL
We came here for a Unilocal event. A very nice, classy place. Private rooms. A nice outside area and good tasting appetizers.
Tom Z.
Classificação do local: 4 Elk Grove Village, IL
Great experience on a Saturday night. We were told they have a new chef. Outstanding. The seared scallops were perfect, and though I was a little hesitant at first of the fungi with honey and pasta that came with the scallops, it was delicious. Recommended. Also had the Pasta Bonato Parmagiano. Another winner. Rich and creamy and excellent. The flight of gelato flavors is also highly recommended. I loved them all, and the portions definitely require sharing. Reminded me of Florence. Our server Juan did an impeccable job. He recommended the scallop dish(with fungi and honey) and it was spot-on. Great service overall. The only reason I am not giving Carlucci’s a full five-star rating is for loudness. When the band started in the bar, the restaurant was not unaffected. It didn’t bother us all that much, but a romantic and quiet dinner would have been difficult with the music so loud. We were told it was a special Halloween event. Fair enough. And I’ll mention, the five-piece band was VERY good! We’ll be back. Thanks, Carlucci’s.
Mike N.
Classificação do local: 5 Naperville, IL
Our first time to Carlucci’s and it was amazing. The interior is absolutely gorgeous and we even took a stroll outside to the patio. Wish it was warmer, because it looks like a great place to have fun! FYI Music on Saturday nights! From our appetizers to the desserts, everything was full of flavor and the presentation was beautiful. First time ever having seen pasta being served table side in a hollowed out block of cheese! I highly recommend this dish and at a price point of 16.95, its spectacular. Our server Brian answered all our questions and had some great recommendations. Wanted to order everything, but there was only 3 of us. The manager KD was very cordial and was very personable. Felt like we were friends forever ! Thank you Carlucci’s for a wonderful meal ! See you again The Nelson Family
Jeff L.
Classificação do local: 3 El Granada, CA
I was expecting to really be blown away, and I would nearly have given this place a 4 but overall the food was just not that flavorful. The pasta was not homemade the sauces were not out of this world homemade. I had the chicken parm which is a HUGE portion but overall I have had better. The service was very good and overall you cannot go wrong, but I have had better Italian food.
Tyler C.
Classificação do local: 4 Naperville, IL
My wife and I came here for dinner on our anniversary as we had a gift certificate, and they let you bring your own wine. We sat out on the patio which was really pleasant, and we enjoyed listening to the 2-man cover band that was playing by the outdoor bar. We started with calamari, which was really good. The pasta we had as entrees wasnt really anything special though. Everything was well prepared and tasted good, but it just didn’t have much wow factor. Our server was also a little inattentive despite only seeming to be responsible for 3 – 4 tables.
Kelsey K.
Classificação do local: 3 Naperville, IL
I definitely enjoyed my meal at Carlucci. They have a great outdoor space. It’s an extremely nice place to go for a nice meal. The food is very good — the pasta is perfectly cooked and very flavorful. I had the gnocchi dish, which was awesome. My husband had something that was similar to carbonara — it was well cooked and rich, but on the bland side… It definitely needed lemon or something. We also had the calamari, which was delish! On Thursday nights, you can bring your own wine without a cork fee, which we are very excited about because the markup on wine is so high at restaurants. I come from a place where BYOB Italian places are a dime a dozen, so it also makes me feel like I’m home. They also have a some really nice spaces for private parties. On the other hand, I think that the service is pretty slow, though, and the prices are pretty high. If I’m going to drop that kind of cash on a restaurant, I expect a certain level of service. If it were 25% less and/or the service was 30% better, my rating would be higher. I don’t think I’ll go back, and I don’t think I would tell people they should definitely go, but it’s a decent choice for the area.
Roy B.
Classificação do local: 3 Carol Stream, IL
It was really nice outside. The scene was very nice. My only complaints were we walked in to the area to get a table and no one greeted us for over 10 minutes. I had to walk in to grab a waiter to have someone help us. Once we got our table the waiter was very nice and attentive though.
Brande O.
Classificação do local: 4 Lombard, IL
I was lucky enough to enjoy a recent Unilocal Elite event at Carlucci, where I’ve never been even though it is just down the street from me. What an experience! My husband and I will definitely be back. My first impression of the restaurant was elegance. This is absolutely a spot that I can see myself coming to for a fancy meal with my hub or a fun patio and drinks evening with my pals. The indoor seating is divine, very richly decorated and sophisticated, but the outside patio is beautiful! A large fountain and bistro tables give it a European café feel, and there is a bar set up right outside for close access to drinks. During our event we were served a plethora of appetizer options, all of which I tried and all of which were amazing! If you’re in the mood for some rich and authentic Italian, this is a great spot to hit. My favorite dish was the pizza, and the red sauce was also delicious. I can’t wait to try a pasta dish next time I’m there.
Annika D.
Classificação do local: 4 Crest Hill, IL
One word: AMAZING!!! Where to start? 1. The setting is beautiful. It’s clean, classy, and romantic. There are a couple of private rooms that can be used for banquets(think small weddings, etc.). There is an awesome courtyard complete with a bar and pretty fountain. My friend and I enjoyed a glass of wine on a bench in front of the fountain-lovely! 2. Food was great! I especially liked the calamari. The breading was light and not heavy! 3. The manager was so helpful and friendly. The only reason I’m not giving 5 stars is because the hostess was cold and made us feel a bit unwelcome. Other than that, I highly recommend!
Erica B.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
Once a year Carluccis throws a Summer Party for their regulars and those who love Carluccis. With purchase of your wristband, you able to stuff your face with wonderful foods and deserts and over 20 different alcohol brands. Wristband drink tickets were used to sample the different brands of alcohol! Lisa and I were there tonight with Roca Patron, a new line by Patron Tequila. We offered 3 cocktails; Mexican Mule, Roca Manhattan and Roca Old Fashioned. It was a HUGE hit. We were named«favorite table and best service». KD is the manager at Carlucci and he was doing a great job making sure things were running smoothly. The live band was a finishing touch for tonight’s event. It was a great time!
Pam K.
Classificação do local: 2 La Grange Park, IL
First time there. Wasn’t impressed with the service. Our waiter was not attentive at all, had to always get his attention just for water. They screwed up our order. He was however very attentive to the table next to us of about eight men, seemed to be regulars. Food wasn’t anything to write home about. Just really disappointed :-(. The only positive was the entertainment 7th Heaven was amazing!
Natalie D.
Classificação do local: 4 Chicago, IL
A solid 4 stars Had drinks and an app on Saturday at 8 pm We ate at the bar which had a nice live band. They were loud but that’s to be expected with a live band. We ordered a french martini and Bellini which were both very nice. The hummingbird martini was not good. It tasted like licorice. We ordered the burratta –it was solid. It needed more of the pesto it came with or salt and pepper on top. We were at a bar table and didn’t have any salt and pepper. I had a flavor crisis lol. The bread it came with was so good! Buttered lightly and obviously made fresh. Loved it. The tomatoes had a nice vinegar flavor. The dish was a solid 3.5 stars. Service was very nice and we were attended to not too much but not too little. We loved the ambience. The building is easy to find but kind of hard to get to. They have vallet but also plenty of parking. They also have plenty of rooms for private parties.
Raj D.
Classificação do local: 5 Villa Park, IL
The patio here is great… they have half price wine nights and a band that plays in the summer… food is a bit pricey for what you get but totally worth it. The pastas and sauces are elegant and fresh. Complimentary valet is a nice perk. Restaurant tends to be fairly packed but wait staff and management is highly accommodating.