This was your first time visiting this location. The atmosphere was friendly and the food was good. My man cub destroyed the pizza as I devoured the Philly Cheese Steak.
I have heard many rave reviews about Cafe Carmela’s and had to try the steak sandwich. It was Ok and I understand why people rave about it. It had the key points some people look for like cooper sharp cheese, seeded roll, rib eye steak with onions. This to me is average since everyone is doing it this way for some reason. The seeded roll reminds me of Asian sesame beef or something. The steak had some chew on it but was just OK. If you are looking for a steak that is Ok and that most everyone is trying to imitate then this is your place. The fries were ok if you like truffle fries. Just eat the food there as they don’t travel well bringing them home. Fries were soggy and steak was not as hot. I will be back to try pizza and Italian dishes.
Cafe Carmela is the best! This is the first time I ordered from here and I will be back. I didn't know where to order from but I figured I would give into the "hype" the restaurant has had and I can tell you. I am not disappointed! I ordered the American Boy which the pizza had the right crust to cheese to sauce ratio ? the garlic Buffalo parmesan wings were to die for! Don Creech's steak was one of the best cheesesteaks I have had in a long time. Took me back to yester years when cheesesteaks were made correctly. And to finish it off the truffle fries ? well were absolutely amazing ?? I will be back for sure ?
Excellent food. Authentic southern Italian cooking. Homemade pasta. Great sandwiches with fresh, delicious bread. Eggplant parmigiana sandwich was among the best I’ve had (half already eaten by the time I took a picture). Highly recommend this gem hidden in a strip shopping center on Holme Avenue in the lower Northeast.
This is one of the best cheesesteaks I’ve had in ages! I have tried this on a friends recommendation and I loved it! The Dough of the pizza had a nice bite to it as well. I definitely wanna try some other things and also try eating in the restaurant. Rumor has it that it’s hard to get a table and by the looks of the crowd, that seems to be true. Wish me luck for next time!
Today was my first time here. I heard from a relative how great it was. I live in South Jersey but come over the bridge to visit family. I love how quaint the atmosphere is. My waitress Sam was full of smiles and very pleasant. She showed me the specials and explained everything. I decided on the chicken parm and rigatoni. Oh my, Fantastic! The food came out so piping hot and tasted delicious. The music added to the atmosphere and was relaxing. I love the oldies but goodies. Sam was attentive to all my needs. I told her that if I was a food critic I would have given a 10. I will for sure be back.One small thing that surprised me was that they did not serve any bread with my pasta. I didn’t need it but my feeling is it goes hand in hand with pasta. Sam told me you have to ask for it. I was not offered it.All in all, still a 10!Thank you
My first visit today. Had lunch - shared a Prov Pie with a friend and had the lemon-raspberry cheesecake for dessert. Both were outstanding. Terrific menu with a nice variety to choose from. Great location. Busy lunch crowd but staff couldn’t have been nicer and service was great. Highly recommend!
Went out for my Girlfriend's birthday dinner on a Thursday. I don't know if they take reservations, but we walked up at 6:30/7pm and it was 35 minute wait.We love Pizza and Cheesesteaks, and while Angelos in South Philly is her favorite, we wanted to try this place because it was closer and they have inside seating.The place is a bit small and cramped, with the tables and all, however we made due. The real estate on the table was filled to the brim with everything we ordered. We got the cheese truffle parm fries, chicken parm (for her), Don Cheech Cheesesteak wit, and the Mags Pizza (most similar to the pie we get at Angelos). Everything was absolutely phenomenal. The cheesesteak was cheezy, seasoned well with a nice seeded roll that held up nicely. The Fries were a great accompaniment as well! Her chicken parm was delightfully cooked and the homemade pasta was delicious. We also grabbed a side of meatballs to try them as well and they were very good.The Pizza was delicious. Wish it had a bit more cheese (as other reviews have posted....wish we would've read them first and then asked for extra), however it was very very good. The crust was light and airy, sauce flavorful. What would've set it over the top was to put sesame seeds on the crust. We've had that at Brooklyn Square Pizza in Jackson NJ and we thought the seeds would've set this pie apart, and over the top...Anyway, the meal was affordable, the entire staff was extremely nice and friendly and we are looking forward to going back!
Absolutely ??. My husband and I have lived in the neighborhood for 5 years now. We never knew about this little spot. We're so mad we have been settling because sometimes, we don't want to take the drive. Family owned and ran, very hospitable , old school vibe, great music and BYOB. Definitely an local small business to support.
Great service, small but cozy place. Cheesesteak and pizza was fantastic