I had to wait two years to eat here! When I came down to NOLA for Mardi Gras 2020, I had no idea a global pandemic would make me have to skip my favourite event in the world for an entire year (but I think we're lucky it was only one year). I first tried to eat here the night I arrived in New Orleans in 2022, which was a Tuesday. The place was packed! I stood in line for a half-hour only to find out they were sold out of gluten-free pasta. I was so bummed but was determined to try again the next year as the rest of my week was planned out for restaurants (you have to do this when you cannot eat gluten).Arabella has a very rustic feel to it, which is very inviting. The restaurant isn't huge on the inside, but there are plenty of places to sit. The smaller size adds to the cozy feel along with all the wooden accents to the decor. I really love the cute little lights over the bar and the chalkboard menu. There is also a little case with beautiful desserts, but I'm pretty sure I couldn't eat most of them due to the gluten thing.This year, in 2022, I went for an early dinner on a Wednesday and there was hardly anyone there. But this was the first post-Covid Mardi Gras, and I noticed most restaurants were less busy than in years past. I was very happy to almost have the place to myself. There was a woman at the front making the pasta by hand which was very cool to watch.I also love the way the menu is structured. You get to pick your pasta, sauce, and then add meats and veggies to it. You go to the cash and order, and when your food is ready, they will bring it to your table. This was vaca, so I endeavoured to have alcohol with every meal, lol. The man who took my order asked what I'd like to drink, and I told him I love coconut and he proceeded to make me the best coconut rum punch I ever had. I also ordered I think, a house salad and the gf pasta with chicken, serrano peppers and I believe a parmesan cream sauce.The salad was so, so good. There were big parmesan flakes and red onions, two of my faves. Then, the pasta dish came out, and it was incredible.The gf pasta was rotini, such a great choice because it really grabs the sauce. The chicken was high quality, with no fillers very obviously. I loved the heat level. They put enough serranos in to burn my mouth...and I love that. I'm a huge fan of heat. And the parmesan sauce was a perfect relief from the heat. I fell in love with this dish.The bathroom was spotlessly clean, as was the rest of the restaurant. There is plenty of street parking. Homey describes the atmosphere and the service. I will DEFINITELY be coming back.I'll be including photos from my last visit in 2020 as well as they show more of the restaurant even though I didn't get to eat there that year and so had to skip reviewing then.You will LOVE Arabella, especially if you're gluten-free. I applaud all restaurant owners who cater to those of us who have dietary restrictions we hate. This place made me hate mine much, much less.
SO GOOD!!! Oh my gosh, reminded me of my favorite Italian restaurant back home but without the long wait time. I got the Yolko Ono and it was even better than I expected it to be. My little nerd heart loves the decor and theme as well. My only complaint is I want a bigger bowl next time lol! Highly recommend.
Ordered the make your own with Grandmas Bolognese sauce and the sauce was very salty and pasta was gummy. Also ordered a side of bread it was cold and drenched in olive oil. Thought this place would’ve been delicious from the reviews left but I did not enjoy the food.
We got Yolko Ono and the lasagna - both were delicious! Quick service, laidback atmosphere.
One of my favorite. Build your own or order one of the many specialty pastas and you'll be in love too. Wish they were open for lunch.
Pretty cool setup for choosing your own dish plus they have signature dishes. Really liked all of the food and looking forward to going again soon.
Excellent pasta dishes. Although you have to order at the counter, you get very good service. Food comes out fast and I presume the person at the register is the owner as he makes sure you feel welcome and properly served.Would definitely recommend this place.
Delicious place. We ordered the bruschetta and it was great. I’m not a fan of tomatoes but the bruschetta was well made. I ordered the John Lemon and I highly recommend it. It’s nice to have options with pasta that isn’t a red or a cream sauce. Good beer selection too.
Amazing and delicious doesn't describe the food here. The Fredo was fantastic and had so much flavor! I even got a to go plate. My Partner had the John Lemon; it was light, had great flavor, and tasted fresh. Would highly recommend this restaurant. The staff is super friendly and helpful.
Great place to have dinner. Bolognese pasta and Parmesan cheese & shrimp were delicious. Cappuccino was amazing. Great customer service. I would definitely come back.