Il Carretto Pizza — Restaurant in Melbourne

My family and I have been coming here for years but after yesterday’s experience I will never be back. So bad that I had to leave a google review. The food is amazing, fairly priced, and brought out quickly however, the service we received yesterday was disgusting.

Never had a problem with the staff but tonight the lady with glasses and dark hair treated us horribly. We told her we were ready to order but my Nonna changed her mind last minute and the waitress rudely said “ok well you told me you were ready to order.” I get why it’s frustrating but that comment wasn’t necessary. Then my cousin asked if the pasta could be changed for one of the specials and she told her “no it’s a special you should know you can’t change it” so she asked what type of pasta she could get for another menu item and the waitress said “it literally says it on the menu, read it.” My cousin opened the menu and she came over and started pointing and reading it to her like she was a child. Absolutely uncalled for. My cousin suffers from dyslexia and was super embarrassed.

When she brought the pizzas out, we were scrambling to move our stuff and she said “hurry up it’s burning my hand.” I don’t understand why she would bring them out on a hot tray without gloves or something. We then watched her slightly push a customer out of her way without saying anything. Those customers ended up walking out. When my boyfriend kindly asked if we could get another jug of water she responded with “you already finished the water? rolled her eyes and went to get another one. What?

As someone who works in customer service I completely understand how hard and stressful it can be but what I don’t understand is why we were treated that way when we were nothing but respectful to her. That’s what bothers me the most. I can understand a little if we were treating her badly but no one was rude at all. We didn’t want to say anything to her as it was my birthday and I didn’t want to cause a scene but this honestly ruined my night. Also had a chat with the party next to us about how she was also rude to them, saying “I’m clearly not your waitress, wait for yours to come to you” when they asked her for something.

She kept making comments to the point that we thought it was a social experiment. I tried to give her the benefit of the doubt as she could’ve been having a bad day however after reading multiple reviews from months ago, it is clear that she is just horrible. I have never had a restaurant experience this bad, thank god most of my family was able to make a joke out of it.

Honestly she ruined my birthday and I felt horrible that my family had to go experience that. I hope someone calls her out for her behaviour in the future. We always leave a good tip for our server but tonight was the first time we haven’t. Although the food is good, it was not worth being treated like that. If you come here and she is your...

Lets begin..

Service: The Main Waitress Serving with Glasses was rather rude, lacking in customer service skills... Your menu says Pasta - and Sauce - I am not even sure what the pasta type is - why be rude about it? - Explain it on your menu or as a Waitress for people new to your establishment..

Every Time she came around it felt like a chore; like my very presence was a burden... I would have happily ordered more drinks, Food etc, but the service was so disinterested and rude - I simply decided I wasn't going to give any more money to the Business.

The Pasta I got itself? Pretty average.... I feel I can genuinely cook the same Pasta at Home using premade ingredients for less Money... What $8 for a thing of Sauce and $5 for Pasta of my Choice + 30 Minutes Total Cooking it? I don't have to experience rude service doing this and my Main Meal isn't literally the same size as the 'Entre' Option my 9 Year old Neice got..

There was a younger Waitress - Long Dark Hair - She was always polite, patient and respectful - Give her a raise or acknowledge her worth.... She was wonderful and worth all the patience and respect in the world. 5 * to Her...

Atmosphere: I walked in and was welcomed - nice - good step by Kitchen and Service Staff.... I took the seat we were at - and instantly loved all the Photos and Decor on the Wall - it felt like walking in on someones Nona/Nonos House and seeing all that history and unrepentant style - loved it....

But if your service is facing issues - the atmosphere is lost... Your business has been around a while - you obviously can do a lot to succeed and you have done it.... But you can do better if you want to expand your business beyond that...

I wanted to go in to your Venue and tell my Friends 'This place is awesome we should go there for dinner once every XYZ' - But all I felt was - I want to leave....

YMMV but that is my view

ADDITIONI

I also ate my Nephews Pizza - because he was unable to eat it (His issue not your Restaurants) - A Margarita with Salami...

As Pizzas go (and I noticed most your customers get Pizzas) it was still very very average..

Whatever - People like different things and Margarita is not exactly 'adventurous' - but it was clearly not just the Pasta I am criticizing...

It wasn't bad either... Just consider that however if you want to rest on your laurels

What is noticable is the Business doesn't engage with negative reviews either...

What we think is not important to them because they have a core client base that is loyal...

So be it - Not great idea long term but...

Dining here is far more than just having a meal, it’s a complete experience steeped in tradition, history, and a genuine passion for Italian food. From the moment you step in, you can feel the warmth and authenticity that define this restaurant. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with decor that pays homage to Italian heritage. One of the most unique aspects of the restaurant is the personalized touch of having the names of celebrities who have visited inscribed on the backs of chairs. It’s a charming detail that adds a sense of history and exclusivity to the dining experience.

The restaurant has clearly mastered the art of Italian cuisine, making every visit feel like a joyous family gathering. Their pizza is a true delight, with a perfect crust and flavorful toppings that transport you straight to Italy. The risotto is creamy and rich, cooked to perfection with a blend of ingredients that create a harmonious balance of flavors. The garlic prawns are another highlight, tender and succulent, with just the right amount of garlic to enhance the natural sweetness of the prawns. And no meal would be complete without their tiramisu, which is simply divine. It’s light yet indulgent, with layers of mascarpone and coffee-soaked sponge that melt in your mouth.

Dining at this restaurant is an experience to savor. Every dish is crafted with care and passion, making each visit memorable. The combination of delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and the unique celebrity touches make this...