Carmelo's Italian Ristorante

"**Long review incoming, but 100% worth the read and make sure you look at the pictures!!** Yesterday, my family and I went to Carmelo's for the first time for my dad's birthday. After multiple raving recommendations from friends, my mom made a reservation back in November to make sure we were able to celebrate at the restaurant. The restaurant is right of off 41 after you cross the bridge from Port Charlotte to Punta Gorda, easy to find, and parking across the street is ample, so no issues there! When we arrived, we were greeted by the hostess and immediately taken to our table. They even gave my dad a little birthday card to put on the table/take home. Richard was our waiter for the evening and he was the perfect example of going above and beyond. He was extremely knowledgeable about the menu, very friendly, and checked on us the perfect amount of time! We started with the calamari fritti (my dad gave this a 5/5 and usually is a harsh critic when it comes to calamari) and mamma's polpette (my mom and I shared this, it was 4 meatballs with fresh ricotta scooped on top, we also gave this a 5/5 and would order it again and again). All of the pasta is freshly made in house, so of course, we decided on pasta dishes (my mom and I) for our main course. My mom ordered the "secret" menu Bada-Bing, which is prepared table side. I've included pictures below, it was amazing to watch and learn about the cheese wheel! It can be done as an appetizer that you share or an entree (with added protein of your choice), just so you know! I ordered the gnocchi tartufo and added chicken; it was heavenly. The gnocchi were so pillowy, soft, and melted in my mouth! My dad ordered the surf and turf and the steak was perfectly cooked, so soft, and extremely tasty; he also had the truffle mashed potatoes as a side, which we all took a bite of because they were so flavorful! After eating ALL of that food, Richard brought us the dessert tray (yes, an entire tray to display the desserts, amazing) and also told us about the regular options on the menu, which included freshly made cannoli, profiteroles (which are cream puffs), and a few other things, but my mom and I decided on the chocolate lava cake. It was truly one of the best desserts I have ever eaten, even on a COMPLETELY full stomach. All in all, this restaurant did not disappoint, especially for our first time, and will definitely remain in rotation for special occasions. I am so excited to go back and try a different set of menu items next time, because if what I ordered was AS GOOD as it was, I cannot imagine what the rest of the menu tastes like! We also are going to request to be at Richard's table each time we go back, he truly made the experience pleasurable and you can tell he truly loves the restaurant and its guests! Thank you Carmelo's for an amazing first experience; it definitely will not be our last!"

"I was there for New Year's Eve. It was very busy but the waiters took there time to allow you to check out the menu and give suggestions, and recommendations for appetizers, and specials. It is a great looking old but very nicely remodeled with multiple rooms. Great looking bar and patios. The appetizers are large and delicious. Great meatballs. The food we had was extremely delicious and tasty. The Osobuco was tender, and delicious. The same could be said for the Veal Marsala. Their bread and pasta where also very good. It was an excellent choice. We didn't have room for their awesome deserts. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a great authentic Italian meal."

"A beautiful place for family and friends gathering. First time here with friends for a great tasting dinner. Even though I took pics of the food, somehow they got deleted. We had a superb tasting brushetta, rice balls, meatballs for appetizers. All of our entrees tasted absolutely amazing. For the final touch I had the best tasting cream Brule. I'm definitely will be bringing my family next time. Ty ❤️"

"Food is absolutely incredible. Atmosphere is amazing especially outside (they have space heaters). Service could not be better. Ive been here a handful of times in the last few years and recognize a ton of staff. Little bit of a snag at the beginning tonight due to a seating issue but not a big deal. Literally the only time I've ever had to wait for a server here and the only reason I mention it is because I could see how upset the staff felt about the error and am hoping they see how incredibly well they turned it around and provided us with a memorable and delicious experience"

"Thank you Carmelo’s for the delicious food that was served at my husband‘s 80th birthday party. I found your catering service to be very convenient to use. Jack was an enormous help in choosing the food, arranging for pick up, and for payment. All arrangements were made by phone and email. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed all the food choices we had made. Everyone commented on the delicious food from Carmelo’s. Thank you for helping make it a very memorable party."