Carrabba's Italian Grill

Imagine a corner of sunny Italy nestled in the heart of Newport News. Carrabba's Italian Grill is more than just a restaurant; it is a popular spot for those who appreciate Sicilian culinary traditions and the atmosphere of a welcoming home. As part of a famous chain in the USA, this establishment has won the hearts of visitors with its sincere approach to ingredient quality and warm service.

The menu is based on family recipes passed down through generations. The restaurant’s crown jewel is the wood-fired grill, which gives meat and seafood dishes a unique aroma. Guests come here for the legendary Chicken Bryan, classic lasagna, and generous portions of pasta made with homemade sauces. High ratings confirm their ability to strike the perfect balance between refined taste and home-style comfort.

The interior is designed in a classic style that invites long gatherings. The walls are adorned with old family photos of the founders, adding a special touch of soulfulness. This is an ideal location for both the bar and full-service restaurant categories, where you can just as successfully host a romantic evening as a lively family dinner.

For your convenience and trip planning, we have gathered the current contact information for the restaurant. You can book a table in advance or check menu details by phone.

Visiting Carrabba's Italian Grill is, first and foremost, an exciting gastronomic journey. Be sure to start your culinary discovery with signature dishes from the wood-fired grill. Don't miss the chance to try Chicken Bryan—tender chicken topped with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a lemon butter sauce—or the classic Lasagne, prepared according to time-honored traditions.

In addition to the food, the restaurant offers an excellent bar menu. You can spend time at the bar trying signature cocktails or choosing a wine from an extensive collection that perfectly complements Italian delicacies. Visitors often note the attentiveness of the staff—waiters are always ready to explain dish ingredients in detail and help you choose based on your preferences.

For those seeking a cozy place to socialize, the establishment offers a relaxed setting suitable for any occasion. You can watch the open kitchen at work or explore family heirlooms throughout the interior. Large portions and fresh ingredients make this a must-visit for all lovers of authentic Italian cuisine in Newport News.

Carrabba's Italian Grill is conveniently located at 12363 Hornsby Ln. If you are traveling by car, the easiest route is via the I-64; guest parking is provided directly at the entrance, making your visit as comfortable as possible.

For those who prefer public transportation, the city is served by Newport News Transit bus routes. You can also always use taxi services or popular apps like Uber and Lyft—the trip from the city center takes very little time. If you are in the vicinity, a walk to the restaurant will take about 20–30 minutes.

If you have just arrived in the region, it's worth noting that Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) is only a 15–20 minute drive away. This makes the establishment an excellent spot for your first delicious introduction to the city right after your flight.

The history of Carrabba's Italian Grill began on December 26, 1986, in Houston, Texas. Its founders, Johnny Carrabba III and his uncle Damian Mandola, decided to share their family's culinary traditions, which are deeply rooted in Sicily. The founders' ancestors emigrated to America in the late 19th century, carefully preserving authentic home-style recipes.

Family heritage is felt in every detail: from herbs grown in their own garden to signature sausages based on a recipe from Uncle Manuel. The first two restaurants in Houston became so popular that in 1993, a large-scale expansion began in partnership with Outback Steakhouse, allowing the brand to reach a national level across the USA.

Interestingly, despite global success and hundreds of locations across the country and even abroad (in Brazil and Canada), the brand maintains the spirit of Sicilian hospitality. The interiors are decorated with archival family photos, including portraits of matriarchs Grace Mandola and Rose Carrabba, highlighting the continuity of generations and loyalty to tradition.

The Newport News location is an important part of this grand story, offering residents and visitors those same flavors that once originated in the small kitchens of Sicilian immigrants. Here, the traditions of wood-fired grill cooking are combined with modern service standards.

For a full visit to Carrabba's Italian Grill, we recommend allowing 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy an aperitif, a main course, and a signature dessert while soaking in the cozy atmosphere.

If you are planning an evening with a large group of friends or a family celebration, your stay might extend to 3 hours. The casual dining format at this restaurant is perfect for long conversations over a glass of wine or a cocktail at the bar, turning an ordinary meal into a pleasant event.

Carrabba's Italian Grill is open daily, offering guests both early lunches and late dinners. The operating hours make it easy to fit a visit into your travel itinerary:

From Monday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the restaurant stays open an hour longer—from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM—perfect for winding down the work week. On Sunday, the establishment welcomes guests from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The restaurant has an OPERATIONAL status and is always ready to receive visitors.

Newport News is a city with a rich history and interesting locations. After a hearty lunch or dinner at the Italian grill, exploring the surrounding area can significantly enrich your trip, adding cultural and historical discoveries to your gastronomic pleasures.

Nearby, you will find picturesque walking spots as well as unique archaeological sites that tell the story of the settlement of these lands. Below are the nearest attractions worth visiting.