Carmella's Cafe

Almost missed out because of the word "cafe" but thankfully looked at the menu and gave it a try! Our server Kelly was awesome and helped make recommendations that did not disappoint. The amount of food you get with a pasta meal is crazy (didn't get a picture of the salad or bread because was too busy enjoying it!) Update March 2026: went back and got more pictures. "Ultimate chocolate cake" was a little disappointing for the price, but the rest was good! Service was not as good as the 1st time... We will definitely be back when were in Utica next!

The fish fry is always very good with fair portions. The pasta dishes here are okay, but sometimes lack flavor. The appetizers are generally very good and the portions are good as well. There was no wait as we had reservations. Parking on a busy night is ‘yikes’. Our waitress was very kind and attentive. Thanks!

Y'all this place is ROUGH. Prices are crazy for what it is, 20+ dollars for any pasta dish is crazy, especially when I can make my own pasta at home for half the price and have it taste way better. We got a large pizza and the appetizer sampler. The onion rings as shown were disgustingly huge and oil soaked, the cheese ravioli was ok, and I’ve had better pizza at gas stations. One waitress rudely threw the bread on the table while walking by. Beer served in the bottle, not even in a glass. And there’s NO taste in anything, and i honestly don’t know how they manage that! Our waitress was nice but that’s all I can say for this experience. I’ve been here before but it’s never been so bad before I felt the need to make a review. Avoid this place.

I’m unsure what all the hoopla about this restaurant is. I didn’t want to cook Saturday so I decided to give it a try. I ordered chicken parm for myself ($24) and kids chicken tenders/fries for my child ($8). I easily placed and picked up my order but when I got home I was heavily disappointed!! There was barely any pasta, a spoonful at best, the chicken was very burnt, the sauce was absolutely awful (overly sweet, no traditional herbs or flavor) and I’m certain that was NOT mozzarella cheese it had the distinct tang of a provolone. My daughter’s “chicken tenders” (looked more like random chicken pieces) were also over cooked. I tried eating some of my meal because I hate wasting money, but ultimately I wound up having to cook at home because this food was awful.

Service was great! Server was friendly and attentive. The food was okay. The chicken riggies had giant pieces of green pepper and the sauce had zero spice. Utica greens were great. I had a wedge salad with steak. The steak was cooked perfectly and seasoned well. My husband's chicken parm was underwhelming.