What should I order at Carmela's Restaurant?
Carmela's Restaurant
Lobster Ravioli
Mentioned multiple times for its fresh and amazing taste, often paired with praise for overall food quality.
Perch (Yellow Lake Perch)
Highly recommended by several guests as the best fish they've ever eaten, praised for freshness and flavor.
Lasagna
Frequently cited as delicious, homemade, and perfectly balanced, enjoyed by multiple diners.
Calamari (Calamari Friti)
Recommended as a superb starter with a light crispy batter and tender squid, well-seasoned and served with marinara.
Shrimp Scampi
Noted for fresh, large shrimp and delicious garlic wine sauce, cooked perfectly and flavorful.
Chicken Parmigiana (Pollo Parmigiana or Pollo Scallopini)
Well-liked classic Italian dish, praised for authentic taste and quality preparation.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Described as creamy, cheesy, and delicious, a favored appetizer.
Cannoli
Highly praised Italian dessert, described as amazing and a perfect way to end the meal.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Carmela's Restaurant
Italian favorites served in an airy but intimate space, with arches, big windows & Tuscan decor.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Private dining room
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Carmela's Restaurant known for?
Lobster ravioli is the standout dish most often mentioned, along with shrimp scampi, lasagna, perch, and marinara sauce. Reviewers repeatedly say the food tastes fresh and well balanced, and many also note the desserts and cocktails as highlights.
What dishes are most recommended at Carmela's Restaurant?
The most frequently recommended items are lobster ravioli, shrimp scampi, fettuccine alfredo, mozzarella sticks, and marinara-based dishes like lasagna or eggplant parm. Reviewers also call out the perch dinner, calamari, bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, and cannoli as especially memorable.
What is the atmosphere like at Carmela's Restaurant?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, quiet, romantic, and upscale, with an airy dining room, arches, big windows, and Tuscan decor. It seems to work well for date nights, small groups, and solo dinner, especially when people want a calmer place to talk over a meal.
Is Carmela's Restaurant good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is about $20 to $30, which reviewers seem to find fair for the quality of the food and service. Guests often mention that the portions are filling and the experience feels special without being overly expensive for dinner in South Bend.
Do you need a reservation at Carmela's Restaurant?
Yes, reservations are recommended because reviewers say it can get busy, especially for dinner and special occasions. Even with a crowd, guests report fast service and attentive staff, including at the bar and during anniversary or graduation dinners.
Is parking available at Carmela's Restaurant?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Carmela's Restaurant kid-friendly?
Yes, Carmela's Restaurant is good for kids.
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