A Love Letter to Carmine’s Family Style Italian Restaurant in Atlantic City

BY Whitney Ullman

Dining at a beloved restaurant is more than just a meal – it's an experience that for me warms the heart. And that place is Carmine's Family Style Italian Restaurant in Tropicana’s The Quarter Atlantic City, NJ. Stepping foot into Carmine's feels like entering a warm embrace from an Italian family, where you’ll hear the joyful chatter of guests and smell the aroma of your favorite Italian dishes.

The welcoming and festive atmosphere sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. You can just see everyone, from the staff to the diners, exuding happiness and contentment. Whether I'm dining alone or with a group, I always feel at home at Carmine's.

Of course, the real star of the show at Carmine's is the food. Fresh, flavorful, and made with love, each dish at Carmine's is a celebration of Italian cuisine. One of my go-to choices is the Mixed Green Salad, a delightful blend of fresh greens, radishes, and green olives, tossed in a perfectly balanced dressing. Another favorite is the decadent Stuffed Artichoke, a rare find in most restaurants, which never fails to impress with its rich flavors. And don’t worry if you’ve never had one before, it’s really fun to eat!

Carmines Spicy Scarpariello Wings,Spiedini Alla Romana & House Salad

No visit to Carmine's is complete without indulging in their signature dishes. The Spiedini Alla Romana, a mouthwatering bread dish topped with butter, caper anchovy sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, is a must have. And the Fried Zucchini, generously portioned and crispy, is a delightful treat that ensures leftovers for the next day. Plus,for those who appreciate a delicious plate of seasoned wings, the Scarpariello Wings provide a zesty kick, and will not disappoint!

For main courses, Carmine's offers a wide array of classic Italian favorites. The Chicken Parmigiana and Pasta Giardinera are must-tries for their comforting and satisfying flavors. The Spaghetti and Meatballs, a beloved staple, never fails to bring a smile. And let's not forget the Baked Clams, Porterhouse Steak, and Rigatoni Country Style, each a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality, taste and diversity in their menu choices. There really is something for everyone, whether you're a vegetarian, gluten-free or even shellfish free, you’ll find the perfect dish. Plus, if you just love their sauce but can’t make it to the restaurant, you can actually purchase Carmine’s Marinara Sauce at select stores! This way you can bring the taste of Carmine’s home with a sauce that will impress your family and friends.

And when it comes to dessert, Carmine's truly shines. The Strawberry Shortcake, adorned with fresh whipped cream, luscious strawberries, and crunchy pistachio nuts, is a delightful sweet ending to a perfect meal. The cheesecake, available in a half portion for the less adventurous, strikes the perfect balance between fluffy and firm, melting in your mouth with each bite. Or indulge in the epic Titanic dessert that will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth and is enough for 6 people!

But dining at Carmine's is not just about the food – it's about the experience. The restaurant's commitment to providing a family-friendly environment ensures that every visit is a special occasion. Whether it's ordering takeout for a cozy night in or catering for a big event, Carmine's always provides impeccable service and delicious food that brings people together.

Carmines Dinner Lobster Fra Diavolo, Spaghetti Meatballs & Stuffed Artichoke

As Carmine's celebrates 35 years of culinary excellence, with multiple locations across the country and beyond, including our own local spot in Atlantic City's Tropicana's The Quarter, it's clear that their commitment to quality and hospitality continues to thrive. For me, Carmine's will always hold a special place in my heart as a dining destination that embodies the essence of family, flavor, and festivity.