Carmine's Italian Restaurant Las Vegas Review

An Authentic Taste of New York-Style Italian Dining in the Heart of Vegas

Carmine's Italian Restaurant brings the spirit of New York's legendary family-style dining to the Las Vegas Strip, offering an experience that feels both timeless and perfectly suited to Vegas's entertainment-focused atmosphere. Located in the prestigious Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, this establishment has become a go-to destination for those seeking generous portions of classic Italian-American cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Walking into Carmine's feels like stepping into a classic New York Italian restaurant, complete with warm lighting, dark wood accents, and vintage photographs adorning the walls. The space is expansive yet manages to maintain an intimate feel through clever sectioning and booth arrangements. The noise level is typically lively—expect a buzz of conversation and clinking glasses that creates an energetic, celebratory atmosphere perfect for groups and special occasions.

Culinary Experience

Carmine's specializes in family-style servings, meaning dishes are designed to be shared among the table. The menu features Italian-American classics executed with consistency and care. Standouts include their legendary Chicken Parmigiana—tender, breaded chicken breasts smothered in melted mozzarella and robust marinara sauce—and the Shrimp Fra Diavolo, which offers a delightful balance of spicy and savory flavors. Pastas are cooked al dente, and sauces are rich without being overly heavy.

Portions are enormous, easily serving 3-4 people per entrée. This makes Carmine's excellent value for groups, though it can be challenging for smaller parties or solo diners. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list focused primarily on Italian varieties, with knowledgeable staff able to make solid pairing recommendations.

Service Quality

Service at Carmine's is generally efficient and friendly, though it can vary during peak hours. Staff are well-versed in explaining the family-style concept to first-time visitors and are proactive about refills and checking in. During busy times, wait times for food can extend slightly, but servers typically manage expectations well. The pacing of meals feels appropriate for the shared dining experience.

Value Proposition

While individual dish prices might initially seem high (most entrées range from $40-60), remember that these are designed to serve multiple people. For a group of four, the per-person cost becomes quite reasonable for the quality and quantity of food. The value is particularly strong for families and larger parties looking to share multiple dishes.

Practical Information

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-11 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-12 AM
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially on weekends
Parking: Validated parking available at Caesars Palace
Dress Code: Casual to smart casual

Ideal For

Carmine's excels particularly for group dining—whether it's a family gathering, business dinner, or celebration with friends. The shared plates and lively atmosphere encourage conversation and connection. While romantic for couples who enjoy vibrant settings, those seeking intimate, quiet dining might find the energy level too high.

Final Verdict

Carmine's delivers exactly what it promises: generous portions of satisfying Italian-American fare in a classic, energetic setting. While it may not offer cutting-edge culinary innovation, it provides a reliable, enjoyable dining experience that particularly shines for groups and special occasions. The location within Caesars Palace makes it conveniently accessible while adding to the overall Vegas experience.