Carsonie’s

If you venture to Lane Avenue in Upper Arlington (next to The Shops on Lane Avenue), you’ll come across a local Italian favorite called Carsonie’s.

The atmosphere is bustling and the energy throughout the restaurant is exciting and fast-paced. When you walk in, you feel as though you joined a big Italian family party, and it’s fun to be a part of it all. The restaurant is typically a bit crowded (at least on the weekends) and while they don’t take reservations, they offer ‘call-head’ seating which we certainly took advantage of – and enjoyed being seated very promptly.

Upon entering, you’re drawn to the large bar in the center of the room which is full of happy patrons conversing over glasses of red wine. Each dining table is covered by a red and white checked table cloth, and old photos and antiques line the dark wood-paneled walls throughout the room – the perfect venue for some home-cooked pizza, pasta or Stromboli.

It’s loud inside (in a good way) – and super kid-friendly. There were multiple families around us with little ones — and ample available high chairs in addition to a solid Kid’s Menu proves just that. There’s also plenty going on so both of our kiddos were easily distracted and entertained by their surroundings (which bought us some extra time to enjoy our meal).

Our kids both enjoyed the kid’s Penne Noodles which was basic (definitely a good thing for our picky eaters) and priced well at $4.99 and comes with a beverage and a gift from the “treasure box.”

The rest of our table (my husband, my parents and I) shared some dishes that all equally hit the spot. I’m pretty sure I am still craving the Lasagna – and while I am typically hesitant to name a menu option at any restaurant as ‘the best’, I am going to go ahead and tell you that this lasagna was the best I’ve ever had. Baked in it’s own dish, the combination of fresh pasta, Italian sausage, ground beef, ricotta, house-made marinara, mozzarella & provolone cheeses was perfection.

With the addition of their signature Stromboli – pepperoni, sausage, mozzarella & provolone wrapped in a crisp, airy crust — we had a full, happy table.

However, not too full to enjoy their Elephant Ear (definitely like something you’d find at the county fair) – it was enough for us all but the kids definitely put the largest dent in it.

Overall, a fun and delicious way to celebrate the weekend – and we’ll definitely be back. Next time, we hope to enjoy the patio that overlooks Lane Avenue!