Carlucci's - Boroondara

My husband and I decided to go to Carlucci's last night without planning in advance, and we were fortunate to be able to get a table. I ordered the Penne alla v... read more My husband and I decided to go to Carlucci's last night without planning in advance, and we were fortunate to be able to get a table. I ordered the Penne alla vodka and my husband had the Mussels marinara, both of which were superb. The restaurant was bustling, as usual, but the staff were welcoming and attentive. We will definitely be returning soon. And I must mention, I had the most delicious Negroni I've ever had!

The waiter at the outside seating area was completely uninterested and rude. The risotto was overly salty, like eating a bottle of salt, and the warm chicken sa... read more The waiter at the outside seating area was completely uninterested and rude. The risotto was overly salty, like eating a bottle of salt, and the warm chicken salad was dry with chunked tomatoes and unimpressive rocket thrown in a bowl. I will not be coming back to this restaurant.

Pizza parmas coffees dessert was great ragu parpadelle completely missed the mark meat tough and pieces of fat not saucy like a ragu should be and parpadelle co... read more Pizza parmas coffees dessert was great ragu parpadelle completely missed the mark meat tough and pieces of fat not saucy like a ragu should be and parpadelle cold and stuck together mentioned to server when paying reply ohh

EveryPerson I encountered in this restaurant was RUDE. For a $19 meal this is the **** I got. NEVER! read more EveryPerson I encountered in this restaurant was RUDE. For a $19 meal this is the **** I got. NEVER!

I've been coming here for years on the basis that everything is the same as the last time I was there. I love this place for its simplicity, large menu and cons... read more I've been coming here for years on the basis that everything is the same as the last time I was there. I love this place for its simplicity, large menu and consistent food. While this is certainly not amazing Italian food (hence the average rating), it is classic Australian-Italian done without frills. The staff are lovely and this place can really pop off during the summer. I particularly enjoy the massive serving sizes which gives excellent value for money. If i were to critique any aspect of this place I would say the interior could use a makeover but for me that's part of the local, 2000s charm that makes me want to return. Don't know what to have for dinner and just want something comforting and not fancy? This is the place.