Carrabba's Italian Grill — Restaurant in Durham

My family went to have dinner to celebrate my mother’s 74th birthday at Carrabba’s at the Durham location . We were greeted with smiles and was seated immediately. We had light banter at the table as our awesome server, Jasmine came to introduce herself and take our drink orders.

She came back within minutes with our drinks and asked if we wanted to order an appetizer. After placing this order, my family enjoyed great conversation while enjoying our drinks, and as we did this, our bread was brought out along with our appetizer following shortly afterwards. As we enjoyed trying out our appetizers, which was delicious, we were then asked if we were ready to order. Not only did Jasmine give great recommendations for entrees, she took her time making sure that every order was correct.

Once all orders were taken, conversations continued; and about 10 minutes later, Jasmine brought out the children’s meal as well as our starter salads. The salads were amazing, as well as the meals the kids that were ordered. After enjoying our salads, Jasmine then returned with our main entrees and refilled drinks.

The entrees were everything that Jasmine suggested they would be and plenty of bread to pair with them.

Jasmine had another entire party that she was serving, however, that didn’t stop her from bringing out a slice of chocolate cake for my mother to enjoy. Jasmine serenaded my mother with a birthday song, and more drinks to follow.

Once we were ready to go, Jasmine brought us out take home containers and bags to place them in.

Everything from the moment we were greeted at the door to be seated, until receiving our check, our service was top tier! Jasmine was a true blessing to us and we made sure she felt the same way with her tip.

Every restaurant should have a JASMINE, because ours was the best ever. Her attitude, dedication, kindness and smile made our visit worth the travel from Raleigh to Durham. Thank you so much Jasmine. You were and are an awesome server and person....

Carrabba’s has a soft spot in my heart as it was the place we went after I graduated high school and where I went when I got my certifications at various jobs while in college. Same with Olive Garden, but someone told me long ago any restaurant with an open visable kitchen is proud of what they make and it still holds true today. After 12 years of not living near one, I found this location not far from us and finally had a place to use a gift card we got after we bought our home, so it was a win-win scenario. My go-to is the Fettuccini Carrabba which is their version of chicken Alfredo with peas, mushroom, Parmesan cream, and it was just as good as I remember. The bread they give you when you sit always hits the spot but it’s really that olive oil and seasonings mix is to die for. Ate so much of it I took home most of my meal. Then…I catch my wife killing my left overs, lol. So it’s more of a reason to go back. I’ll get pics next time, but don’t sleep on Carrabba’s. The new item I never tried before was the GINORMOUS slice of Canolli Cake. Wow. Definitely a must have and gives Cheesecake Factory a run for their money. There was a time where Olive Garden, Carrabba’s, and Romano’s Macaroni Grill were the three go-to spots to eat good, celebrate, and consistently get exactly what you love. Glad two of the three are...

From my letter to the manager following a 5.28.15 meal:

Jason,

Last week, I called Carrabba's to ask about a server who my family adored on their last visit to town. After a brief chat with you, we determined that Bryan was our server, and you regretted to tell me that he was out of town for the week. Although disappointed, I gave you my name and an approximate arrival time and you promised me that we would be well taken care of.

Boy, you weren't kidding! Enter, Eli - strong competition for Bryan on our favorite server list. He was professional, funny, and kind to my daughter, even bringing her some pizza dough to play with. We had a lovely evening.Eli took terrific care of us, and I was so touched when he told us that the restaurant wanted to provide dessert for us, since Bryan was out of town.

Well done, to you and your staff. I was a waitress and bartender for years and quality service such as Eli and Bryan's is almost impossible to duplicate, and your staff has delivered. I have been to your restaurant twice, and have been absolutely delighted with both experiences...

...The service is flawless, the food is wonderful, and you have provided a lovely, warm environment which breeds happiness. And next time I'll ask for either Eli or Bryan. I can't go wrong, either...