Cara Mia

The tableside chicken parm gets most of the attention (and it absolutely deserves it), but Cara Mia has so many other standout dishes on the menu. The gnocchi is soft, melt-in-your-mouth perfection — the kind that tastes like someone’s nonna made it. The Fettuccini Cara Mia with shrimp, crabmeat, scallions, diced tomato, and chili flakes in vodka sauce is creamy with just the right kick — flavorful and balanced without being overly heavy. And the fried cheese appetizer? Crispy on the outside, perfectly gooey inside, and gone within minutes. Everything tastes fresh and homemade — you can tell they truly care about the food they’re putting out. The ricotta cheesecake was unreal: light, fluffy, and not too sweet. One of my favorites. And I’ll always say yes to an affogato to finish. Servic

The food was absolutely delicious. We had ordered the mozzarella stick, meatballs, and the chicken parmigiana in vodka sauce. I absolutely would come back here again and it probably is ranked in the top three of my favorite Italian restaurants I’ve ever been to. Just Wow!

A cute, quaint, restaurant in the heart of Millburn downtown! Went to Cara Mia for the first time with a bunch of friends. Loved and enjoyed the evening with attentive and friendly staff, a cozy atmosphere. Food was absolutely fresh and delicious. We are primarily vegetarians and the Menu offered plenty choices or the dish could be altered. A BYOB place. We were served with fresh warm bread and yummy zucchini chips with bruschetta. We ordered Burrata Special with pistachios and fresh figs, Arugula Special Salad, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, Spaghetti Carbonara, Pumpkin Ravioli, Mushroom Ravioli, and Tiramisu. Everything was flavorful and we thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

Cara Mia never disappoints. The food is consistently excellent, with generous portions and classic Italian flavors done right. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate without feeling stuffy, and the staff is attentive, friendly, and genuinely welcoming. It’s one of those places that feels perfect for a date night or a relaxed dinner with friends. BYOB is a huge plus, and everything from start to finish feels thoughtful and well run. Easily one of the best Italian spots in the area.

Absolutely Amazing!!!! This is my second time coming back to Cara Mia, and it has officially become a must go to every time I’m in Jersey. They have the best spaghetti carbonara I’ve ever had. I live in Atlanta, Georgia, and I still have not found another place that comes close. The atmosphere is intimate, quaint, and romantic, perfect for a cozy date night. I also love that they allow you to BYOB and will chill your wine for you. That alone is a huge plus. Customer service is excellent. The staff is very attentive and makes you feel genuinely taken care of from start to finish. The spaghetti carbonara was rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Absolutely perfect. My husband ordered the 16 ounce ribeye topped with onion crisp, served with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach. Ten out of ten. C