Carluccio's — Restaurant in England

We booked for lunch as we’ve had several great experiences at Carluccios in Stratford before so we travelled from Loughborough for the day and it was so, so poor! Awful service from the moment we arrived. We were sat at a table in the corner and asked what we wanted to drink to which my wife replied “could we have a menu?” He seemed bewildered that we didn’t know the food and drink menus off by heart and then came back with the menus, I had to go and ask someone else for a children’s menu for our 4 and 1 year old, we ordered 2 starters with sides and 2 kids pasta meals to be all together (nothing too elaborate, we thought!) My wife’s tomato bruschetta and my soup arrived (clearly microwaved in a bowl with as much soup on the outside of the bowl than in, no sides or kids meals… a lady came over 5 minutes later after I’d shared my bread with our kids to ask “are you missing some meals?” Sherlock Holmes, be warned! When I told her what we were missing, our server emerged from the kitchen with another soup and tomato bruschetta, walked over to the table, gave a scornful look and turned back to the kitchen, still no sides or kids food. After 15 minutes of being sat with a now-lukewarm bowl of soup the lady returned with a well-rehearsed explanation that “another table ordered the same starters as you and you had theirs which is why the rest of your order hasn’t been sent out, it won’t be long.” By this time I’d calculated I could have walked round to M&S, bought some pasta, pesto sauce and the ingredients for a cheese sauce and prepared my sons’ lunches myself and they’d have eaten it all in the time it took. The final nail came when my 4-year-old said “Daddy, why is my pesto pasta not here?” after 25 minutes of picking at my focaccia. I got up, took my youngest out of the high chair and loaded him into his pram, told my oldest we would find somewhere else to get some lunch just as the lady said “they’re nearly ready now.” Poor Antonio must be...

A Standout Italian Experience at Carluccio’s – Derbion, Derby

Once again, on Saturday 10th May 2025, I had a truly outstanding meal at Carluccio’s in the Derbion centre, Derby. I want to give heartfelt thanks to the exceptional Manager Heather, our brilliant waiters Charlie and Tom, and the talented kitchen team for creating another memorable dining experience.

From the moment I arrived, Heather greeted us with her usual warmth, professionalism, and infectious positive energy. She manages the restaurant with such ease and attention that you immediately feel at home. Her thoughtful approach and clear care for both staff and customers set the tone for a relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Charlie and Tom were fantastic throughout the evening — friendly, efficient, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. Their recommendations were excellent, and their attentive yet easygoing service style made us feel welcomed and looked after from beginning to end.

As always, the food was a highlight. Every course was fresh, flavoursome, and beautifully presented — from the light, delicious starters to the perfectly cooked pasta and indulgent desserts. You can truly taste the authenticity of the Italian flavours, and the consistency of the kitchen team is worth applauding.

I have dined in many Carluccio’s branches across the UK, but I can confidently say that the Derby Derbion location is the best of them all. It’s not just about the food — it’s the rare combination of exceptional service, genuine hospitality, and a team that clearly loves what they do.

A huge thank you to Heather, Charlie and Tom, and the chefs for another unforgettable visit.

Highly recommended for anyone looking for a high-quality Italian meal with impeccable service. Thank you, Heather, Charlie, Tom and the Chefs, for a...

recently popped into Carluccio’s on the upper level of Derby’s shopping centre (now called Derbion), and here’s the vibe:

• Space and atmosphere* The place feels open and light, with floor-to-ceiling windows that give it an airy, relaxed tone perfect for people watching. 

• Decor and layout* It has a clean, contemporary look, nicely styled with framed Italian food art and a little deli-shop right by the entrance. You can grab a seat, browse for sauces or pasta mid-meal, and check out easily at the end.  

• Food and tastes* This place nailed it with the seafood linguine and their lasagne both were rich, tasty, and satisfying. One fan even said the pistachio ice cream “actually tasted like pistachio,” which doesn’t always happen!  The prawns marinara starter came with grilled ciabatta and a fragrant wine-tomato-basil sauce great for dipping. 

• Service* Nothing but positives here. The staff are friendly, swift, and attentive someone even mentioned going above and beyond to adjust dishes to fit dietary needs or tastes. 

• Upsides* People commonly praise the consistent food quality, the welcoming atmosphere, and thoughtful decor. 

• What to be aware of* Some reviewers find it a bit pricey. Portion sizes might be on the modest side, especially for bigger appetites. 

• Bottom line?* Carluccio’s in Derby gives you a welcoming, well-styled space with reliably good Italian food and solid service. It’s an especially nice spot to grab a lunch or dinner when you’re out shopping. Just know it’s not the cheapest place in town, and portions may leave a big appetite wanting more but overall, a great pick for a comfortable...