Based on 436 opinions finded in 2 websites
Based on 436 opinions finded in 2 websites
Opinions
Recommended to us by the site where we are staying and by reviews on this page we were very disappointed to visit Carlo's on Wednesday 28 April 2021 to discover it no longer looks like its profile photo and just had a handwritten phone number in the glass case outside. Its website says it's open Thursdays - Saturdays from 5.30pm but its Facebook page suggests it's only open at weekends, though that isn't clear. Locals seem to know and are enthusiastic about take-away food and weekend dining, I think.
LesleyScarborough . 2021-04-30
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Very hardworking friendly ladies served us classic Italian dishes. Kids had kid sized spag bol and calamari. Me and grandad had excellent seafood spaghetti, inc lobster, scallops, prawns, mussels. Hubby had mushrooms and pizza with whatever topping he wanted! Everyone happy, will return.
JIWUk . 2020-08-23
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Excellent food at all times we have visited.Especially Carlos special fish dishes.We enjoyed a takeaway recently and will be definitely having another.Too bad during lockdown no fish dishes available.
ISA M . 2020-05-23
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My wife and I came here for a couple dinner. And although it was busy with Xmas parties, the staff were pleasant and attentive. For starters we had bruschetta and mezzo platter. The bruschetta was tasty and the mixed meat platter had assorted meats and a small side of olives and sundried tomatoes. The main courses were a special of ricotta and spinach tortellini which was well cooked and flavoursome. The arrabiatta was REALLY spicy, to the point of only tasting the heat. I get that arrabiatta has a kick but this really had a KICK.To finish we had irish coffee and cappuccino. The cappuccino was grand and the Irish coffee had a good taste of whiskey though I found the dream on top overstepped.A pleasant night overall.
Jonny M . 2019-12-15
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Great family-run restaurant with a greta menu and superb home cooked Italian food with specials to die for. BUdget to fit all tastes and friendly staff will recommend the best dishes of the day.
paulcurzy_gsy . 2019-09-23
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Delicious food served by very attentive friendly staff,good portion sizes ! complimentary breads and spreads to start , very tasty and lovely touch, true Italian feel and drinks are not over priced as they usually are in Italian eating places . Would certainly recommend and would certainly return!
julie h . 2019-08-08
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Delightful Italian restaurant, lovely, well prepared and presented food served by lovely friendly staff.
Sally M . 2019-07-29
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Party of five, staff welcoming. Decor is tired, so tired. Menu was found to be rather limited and our vegan had trouble in finding something. The rest of the party were more easily suited but the food was downright average across the board with our poor vegan being served some concoction that involved sprout! In July!The one sweet was just a mess with cocoa powder thrown on from afar.Reading the reviews I can only surmise that the chef was having a day off and the kitchen cat was in charge
rogerdD7511JS . 2019-07-20
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Would not rush back food was okay but nothing to wright home about and not worth the rather high price tag.
LADYSCOT . 2019-07-06
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We are on Holiday and saw some fab reviews about the local Italian restaurant Carlos. Only staying 5 days and it’s been closed for three of them. On the last day here we were all set to go and eat there that evening. I rang to check they could doMy son a pizza, not in the menu but a previous review said they would accommodate. When I rang they said they were too busy to cook Pizzas! Very disappointed at lackIf helpfulness and quite surprised at an Italian restaurant not doing pizzas! SoIt may be lovely food but don’t rely on a pizza if that’s what youFancy!
Laura C . 2019-07-03
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We enjoyed four different mains dishes here, and don't order a starter as a wooden board of four different breads and three spreads come complimentary!!! Delicious. Check opening times first! Closed Monday & Tuesday. Do reserve a table!
awheeler1945 . 2019-07-01
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My husband and I always visit Carlo’s for a celebration meal and have never been disappointed with the venue, service or meal. The steak dishes are consistently very good and the pollo alla noci was very tasty. Excellent house wine completes another great meal.
chrissB6217SS . 2019-06-09
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Have been quite a few times to this terrific restaurant never a disappointment. Good varied menu and a specials menu. Carlo keeps what are obviously popular dishes on most of the time which is great. I love the Polo Parmigiana which I order quite often. Worth trying if you go to Carlos. Good and friendly staff who know all about the various dishes and work very efficiently.
ISA M . 2018-12-11
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Friendly staff, the best Calamari in the world and well what more could you ask for! The menu is varied and the food freshly prepared and delicious.
Helen P . 2018-11-17
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5 of us had dinner here, you do need to book as it is very busy. A good menu with something for everyone including the vegetarians. A warm welcome, friendly staff and although they were busy the service was good.
Girl-Friday56 . 2018-11-05
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All I can say is WOW. The food is absolutely delicious and the staff are lovely and welcoming. The chef Carlo is obviously a perfectionist, perfecting and blending delicious flavours together. A little piece of heaven. Heather the owner was an absolute delight and a fantastic host. Thank you, I loved every morsel.
532jules . 2018-10-20
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Just passing through and popped in unannounced, fully booked but fitted us in ,service was swift meal was stunning ,staff were friendly, highly commended.
specialevents4you . 2018-10-07
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Great food and atmosphere - highly recommended. This is an exceptional restaurant in an otherwise limited dining choice in Castle Douglas.
IAIN R . 2018-09-09
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We pitched up as a group of 5 unannounced just after opening time. We were warmly welcomed and with some table re arrangement were accommodated. Service was wonderful from start to finish; attentive but not over bearing. We avoided a starter as sweets were required. However we were treated to an assortment of fresh bread and accompanying flavoured butters and spreads.
Badgersniff . 2018-08-28
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A real gem of a place. Awesome food and superb, friend service - highly recommended. Very fast service too and good value for money.
P2841HPians . 2018-08-25
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Food quality and service were great. This restaurant was clearly very popular with locals and visitors to Castle Douglas, and on visiting, we understood why. Lovely food and lovely service, thank you
713debbieg . 2018-08-18
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Superb Italian meal. Everything is cooked from scratch and is fresh. I went for the Smoked Haddock Risotto as I am Lactose Intolerant I asked for it to be cooked with no cream it was absolutely delicious which shows great skill as a Chef as cream is a major ingredient. My wife had the Arribiatta pasta again superb. The only blip was the Focaccia which came with too much salt sprinkled on we changed this for Garlic bread which was the best we have ever tasted. Staff were brilliant highly recommend Carlos.
CarlPBingley . 2018-08-16
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Lovely staff, tasty meal...always have a goood fillet steak here. Good portions, always leave stuffed. Always busy which speaks volumes. Decor could do with an upgrade, and maybe some different music to push it to 5 stars.
Rebecca H . 2018-08-02
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We both enjoyed our meal and the attentive service. I had the Lasagna with side veggies. Husband had the special seafood linguine. The seafood was fresh and abundant in the dish and the pasta was perfectly done. I only wish they had let us know they had a full bar because we didn’t want to order a full bottle of wine. The house wine was limited to one red and one white. Otherwise things were marvelous. Thank you.
CSGreenen . 2018-07-27
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It was really excellent, lovely wine and amazing meatball starter and seafood linguine (both from a good specials menu)+ prices are really reasonable
Grace J . 2018-07-26
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Expensive but care is taken in the food. Very high end and food is ok if you can deal with all the faffy stuff. King prawns full. Eyes and everything etc. Staff are great and very polite and welcoming. If your not into aromatic beers. Then you won't be having a pint here.
Zee B . 2018-06-22
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Unimposing from the outside, but a warm welcome and delicious food await inside. Good variety on the menu and helpful staff make this a good place to go.
aanncc22 . 2018-06-13
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Excellent food, excellent friendly staff. The decor is a bit dark and drab and the outside doesn’t have kerb appeal but don’t let this put you off. Best to book on a weekend as it gets very busy.
kvr845 . 2018-06-12
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Cannot fault anything about this restaurant apart from no disable access. A very fine eating experience with fresh fish on the menu at all times. ATTENTION TO EACH AND EVERY CUSTOMER is a priority. Hygiene levels are 100%
janeH5350UO . 2018-06-12
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Lovely dinner accompanied by some excellent Italian wine. Good spot to eat in Castle Douglas but you need to book ahead as can be busy. Ideally enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the Sulwath brewery bar which is behind the restaurant as well.
Romax58 . 2018-05-01
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We had a lovely Italian meal here. The restaurant is beautifully decorated, small but not cramped. The staff are friendly and is so good that you would have to book in advance at popular times.
Susan G . 2018-04-16
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A warm welcome and the service all night was outstanding!
SuziGlasgow . 2018-04-01
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Visited this place whilst on holiday in Scotland last year. Lovely food. Lovely staff. Excellent. Would definitely visit again.
i_am_hank_83 . 2018-02-21
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This was an unexpected delight of a find. Great food, great atmosphere, enjoyably authentic in its Italian menu, presentation and quality. My highlight was the antipasti which was to die for in its quality, flavour and - exuberance!
steveV9827SR . 2018-01-22
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Fantastic service, warm and authentic atmosphere, outstanding food and reasonably priced. Short review but it's all you need to know!!! I definitely wouldn't drive past this place! 5 star!!!
ThePromise27 . 2018-01-18
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They managed to squeeze us in for an early meal on a Saturday evening. I'm so glad they did, we were just visiting for the weekend and had planned on eating here from the other excellent reviews.
Amanda B . 2018-01-16
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Visited with friends not been for 2 years despite living in the area as service let it down last time and not a great experience! So returned hoping things had improved. Food good but with the prices they charge would expect at the very least...
Sunshine221205 . 2018-01-06
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What a fantastic meal in a lovely restaurant. We were very warmly welcomed and seated close to a heater on a cold evening. Our waitress told us of the wide variety of specials on the menu and brought us some freshly baked focaccia to have while we deliberated. For starters, we had minestrone soup - delicious and packed with vegetables - and the two specials of cream of asparagus soup and monkfish goujons. All three dishes were exceptional, with the monkfish in particular being mouthwateringly fresh. For mains, the fillet steak fettuccine and lasagne were beautiful but special mention has to go to the beef medallions, cooked beautifully and absolutely delicious. The sides of vegetables, gratin potatoes and (real!) chips were worthy additions to a wonderful meal. We had no room for dessert but the selection on the menu was hard to resist. The service was friendly, efficient and helped to make our visit even more enjoyable. Very reasonable priced for delicious, freshly cooked food. Will definitely be back if we are ever in the area.
JAM791 . 2018-01-04
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Another great meal for the 9 of us. Most had three courses and they all lauded praise for their meals. Two had main courses which were not on the menu or the specials. Just goes to show just ask and they will try to meet your requirements. Another great night and most certainly will be back.
gallopingmajor . 2018-01-03
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We all had a lovely meal with all our 3 steaks being cooked to perfection from medium rare to well done. The restaurant was a little cold in temperature and should have had the temperature warmer before guests arrived.
Mark W . 2017-12-10
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Visited Carlo's on strength of previous reviews. We were not disappointed. Small, cosy and informal restaurant. Food was great...starters (pate, spicy mushrooms, garlic bread) all good and made even more special by the complementary breads with smoked salmon butter - which was gorgeous - and spicy sausage. Mains were tasty and filling just as pasta dishes should be. So glad I saved room for dessert as the white chocolate pannacotta was the best I've tasted, creamy and sweet. Bliss. Waitresses were friendly and great with our son and service was speedy - which really suited us. Would love to return when we're back in the area. Recommended.
scusi14 . 2017-10-15
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Carlo really knows his scallops, steaks, pasta, desserts and more. I have dined there several times and have thoroughly enjoyed the food every time.
Mick S . 2017-10-01
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Excellent meal, good service reasonable prices. To be recommended, parking fairly easy, not enough gin in G&T;!
Thomas S . 2017-09-27
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We always have a meal at Carlos with family and friends on special occasion. Food is excellent. Staff and owners friendly and attentive
Betty P . 2017-09-17
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In our opinion this is the best option for an evening meal in Castle Douglas. Helpful and cheery staff and a pleasant ambience with linen napkins and tablecloths. The food was excellent; my fettucini with seafood was more seafood with fettucini which was a nice surprise. You will probably not need a starter after being presented with the nibbles of crusty bread and chorizo and smoked salmon spreads. Very much recommended.
jimc352 . 2017-09-16
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An absolutely lovely meal. Even though we had to go to the theatre, service was fast and both meals were delicious. Congratulations to both chef and staff. Highly recommended.
g0rd0n65 . 2017-08-25
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Five of us (3 generations, oldest 86) came here whilst on holiday in the area. We chose it on the basis of the good reviews. Great place, friendly staff (definitely on a mission to get people in and out as quickly as possible). It was busy, our table was cramped but we managed. No sooner had we sat down than we were given menus. Food ordered and within seconds a plate of breads, pate, salami arrived for us to share. It was very nice but no time to eat it because within a minute our starters arrived ! Fitting it all on the small table was a challenge! Starters finished and again, the mains arrived very swiftly. The food was lovely but it was all too frantic especially with having Grandad with us who would have preferred not to have been rushed.
runforthehills2016 . 2017-08-18
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An unprepossessing exterior hides a small and delightful restaurant. A lovely warm welcome from staff led us to an intimate booth for four. Drinks ordered, selection of breads with ramekins of spicy tomato paste and a taramasalata-type spread provided while we waited for starters. The calamari were soft, flavoursome, with a light crisp coat ( yummy) as was the crostini funghi. It was agreed that the mains of pasta were all excellent as was the chicken in Parma ham.No space for desert! Our booking was for a Sunday evening as the Saturday was full. Perhaps an indication of its popularity. Not a criticism as such, however the courses came a little too quickly for us and next time we'll remember to ask for more of a delay between courses. There definitely will be a next time.
Margaret W . 2017-07-31
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Carlo's restaurant is worth a trip to Castle Douglas. It is seldom that authentic Italian food, made with passion, gusto and skill, can be found. But, in the south west of Scotland, it is a true delight to have experienced such excellence supported by staff who are warm and professional ... and a manager (Heather) who is as generous of spirit as Carlo is with his food!
JamesGreyvensteyn . 2017-07-14
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Celebrated our 40th. wedding anniversary at this restaurant and couldn't have selected a better one. We were made most welcome on our arrival and this continued throughout the full evening. The food was excellent as was the service. There was a good friendly atmosphere within the restaurant. Thoroughly recommended and guaranteed a return visit.
pastmaster827 . 2017-07-13
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We found this small place while searching for somewhere to eat after arriving to spend the night inCastle Douglas on our way home from the boat from Ireland. It was quite busy and they just managed to find us a table Service was fine and the choice was good we ordered drinks and food. Shortly after ordering we were told the card machine was not working and we needed to pay by cash which we managed to get together. However it would have been nice to have been told before we ordered. The food was good though my husband is not a fan of itatilian but he enjoyed it as much as I did and the cost was reasonable.
Carole A . 2017-06-28
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Visited here twice in one week whilst in the area with friends for a celebration. We were warmly welcomed and the service was very good. It is a small family owned restaurant and is predominantly Italian. The quality is extremely good - fresh fish and pasta along with a selection of meats. The quantity too is generous. There is the usual menu and a specials menu. The wine list again is predominantly Italian and is more than adequate. You really have to book a table here in advance although they will try to fit you in if at all possible. I would highly recommend a visit here.
Grandis12 . 2017-06-21
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My brother who is a chef and his wife were visiting from Canada. I live locally and had heard good reports so booked a table for early dinner. Friendly welcome, efficient staff so helpful and cheerful. Nothing a bother. The three course meal we enjoyed will live long in our memories. Each course a mouth watering delight of flavours and cooked to perfection!!!! Arranged with such artistic flair and soooooo delicious....savoured every mouthful, not wanting the course to finish. The same with each course.....the steak was tender and cooked exactly as requested. My brother and his wife eat out a lot in Canada and they both said they hadn't enjoyed a meal as much for a long time. He couldn't praise the chef enough....Carlo came out and spoke with us and brought us out a dessert he had just made for us to try.....so delicious..... never had such good pannacotte, or tiramasu, or crème brulee,. All made on premises... You want a meal to remember???? Can't think of anywhere better than Carlos in Castle Douglas.... Need to book....
Patricia G . 2017-06-14
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We all had Outstanding starters and meals x6 fish meals we all freshly cooked and very tasty, my steak was great. Carlos invited my husband into to kitchen! what a great find! Would recommend a visit and shall be returning. Thankyou guys!
Hayley G . 2017-06-10
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Booked table for 4 and expected a good night out, going by previous rewiews, Friendly greeting on entering the restaurant and it was pointed out to us that the chef was Italian, so expectations were high. However lack of service from the start didn't bode well for a good night, one member of staff struggled to understand our requests, so we had to wait while she managed to get another member to staff to confirm our order. The Menu states the pasta dish I choose was quote " the hot one" so even when I doubled checked with the waitress prior to ordering that it would be spicy, the result was really dissapointing, no spice whatsoever, 2 meals arrived without vegetables, and by the time we could attract anyone's attentions the meals were half finished. This is a restaurant for locals known to the staff, as clearly they were the only people in the restaurant getting any service. Despite a heavy bill at the end of the night not once were we asked if the meals were okay. Plenty of waitresses on duty just a pity none of them paid any attention to our table. Won't return despite having recently moved into the area.
Christine S . 2017-06-04
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Have been a number of times, though not recently.Excellent Italian food without the usual noisy, clattering ambience.Good service, decent wines.If you like your steak cooked as requested & deliciously so Carlo's can't be beaten. I generally avoid steak when eating out as it is usually badly done.
777barry . 2017-05-23
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We had intended eating in another local establishment, but when we arrived it was closed. I have to say that it was without a great deal of enthusiasm that we ended up in Carlo's (you know how it it when you have your heart set on one thing but have to settle for another), but what a fantastic surprise!We ate on a Tuesday night in May and it was pleasantly busy. We received a very warm welcome (and friendly service throughout the meal). We shared a starter (squid, so often disappointing in the UK, but lovely at Carlo's), had a main each (pasta) and shared an amazingly good TiramasuWashed down with a soft drink and a glass of wine, this was barely over £40 - incredible value. We will definitely return next time we are in the area.
Bev_and_Mark . 2017-05-14
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We returned to Carlo's with friends and had an excellent meal. The steaks were wonderful as were the sautéed potatoes. Very good house red wine and we all had a lovely meal. Certainly due another visit.
airehamer . 2017-05-05
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Our first visit was great for a family reunion. Our next visit to the area we decided to eat here again. We were warmly greeted by the staff our order taken quickly & our meals arrived later. The food was well served with good quantities,beautiful tastes, & warm. The menu has plenty of varieties to suit all. Well worth a visit if in the area.
copenhagen50 . 2017-04-29
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Small Italian restaurant with great tasting food. A lovely wine list etc and the ambience and staff are very welcoming
selwynfell . 2017-04-28
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We are always grateful to have this quality restaurant in our locality. Service is excellent, food is superb, its the full package!Compared to the other very mediocre restaurants in the area this is head and shoulders above, thanks to all the staff for making every dining event a special occasion,many thanks Heather and Carlo.
Alan D . 2017-04-21
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Came highly recommended but not sure why. The starters were not what was expected. Brushetta came covered with cheese - I have never seen cheese on brushetta before. The focaccia bread looked like a pizza base! thin and crispy. It was the main couse that was the real dissapointment. It was bland with no real flavour.
Pollypops2014 . 2017-04-17
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My husband and I have eaten here a few times and always found the standard of food, and service to be very high. Staff are always very efficient and pleasant and never make you feel rushed.There is a good selection on the menu and a lovely choice of wines.I always look forward to eating there and will definitely be back in the future.
Carolyn040 . 2017-04-11
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We have been eating at Carlo's for decades and have never been disappointed. This visit was as good as ever. Homely atmosphere, friendly service, excellent food, good value. We just love it.
Farmlabourer . 2017-04-02
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I would highly recommend we have been here 5 times now and every time has been simply superb .we have calamari usually followed by steak with usually no room for dessert
111111121112222221 . 2017-03-29
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I walked in off the street on a busy Saturday night and was delighted that the restaurant were able to give me their only unoccupied table with zero notice! Staff were friendly and attentive despite being at full stretch. The goujons followed by a pasta dish were very good value and I was even offered a Tupperware bowl to rake away my largely uneaten salad! I would definitely recommend this restaurant to visitors to Castle Douglas.
fionag0 . 2017-03-25
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Fantastic meal and service. Both food and wine menus had plenty of choice and everything we ate was cooked perfectly. Slightly expensive but I guess you get what you pay for.
Chris P . 2017-03-25
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Flawless staff from start to finish, attentive and subtle.The freshness of seafood came through in our starts and main courses. Pasta dish for our daughter was traditional and very tasty.Little pricey when we first seen the menu but after our meal it was worth every penny. Wide range of puddings, something for everyone.Fantastic and can't wait to return.
Morton56 . 2017-02-17
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Even thought it was most likely the busiest night of the year this was a very enjoyable visit and did not feel rushed or underprepared. Waiting staff and front of house were lovely and welcoming. The restaurant was cozy and charming and the food was perfect. As with many "Valentine's deal" I had reservations about the quality for such a reasonably priced set menu. Yet the options were not only able to suit everyone and very appealing but when served they were cooked to perfection. Thoroughly enjoyed my meal and wouldn't hesitate to book here again. Credit to the chef and staff!
Amy R . 2017-02-16
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Friendly warm welcome to this Well placed Italian restaurant in middle of Castle Douglas.Excellent specials menu served by caring attentive staff.
mch2204 . 2017-02-11
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Visit after local recommendation and not disappointed.Also read TA reviews ahead of driving nearly 40 mile round trip for dinner. Worth the effort.Decor could be described as a little different. 1960's Cliffs Richard and the Shadows as background music worked, if not unusual (no pun there for Sir Tom). I suggested a little Matt Munroe with English and Italian versions.Back to the place which was busy for a Thursday in February, outside temperature 0 degrees, inside Warm and buzzing.Squid starter - V tastyFillet Steak - beautiful and cooked perfectlyBe warned, large fillet.Sides of Veg + Sauté Potatoes (Yorkshire Scallops) was optimistic and overfacing, but truly delicious.The Specials board of Baked Cod on Pea and Ham Risotto went down well with the wife.Fantastic to find a restaurant where the Specials Board are dishes not found in any form on the regular menu. Where the dishes offered are a by product of potential food waste or over stock. Enthusiastic and attentive waitressing without pushiness, chatty and with a smile. Hats Off Chef. Great Job. Grazie CHEF
KThewanderer . 2017-02-10
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Food was amazing. My hubby and myself shared a meat platter to start. It was only to feed one but fed 2 easily. We both then had fillet steak. Wow. Melt in the mouth delicious.
Sally F . 2017-01-17
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There are many reviews on TA which praise the food at Carlo's, and I add my praise for the food also. But with 7 of us on a Saturday night, the staff (particularly the kitchen staff) in true Italian style, cooked for us managing our foibles, eg the steak and pasta dish but without the sauce, an off the menu typical pasta dish, two starters rather than a starter and main. Nothing phased the team and we wholly recommend this restaurant. The food was excellent and the service very efficient yet relaxed, in true Italian style.
KBites . 2016-12-31
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I have been here before over the years when down for the weekend visiting family. On this occasion we were very disappointed. It was a Saturday night and we had booked a table, it was very busy. We sat down at 7.30 pm and by 8.15 had been served our starter and main course and the table cleared! I have never had a meal in such a rush. When we first sat down we ordered our wine which came with delicious bread and butter. We also ordered foccia which came straight away. Followed immediately by our starter. By this time there was no room on the table for anything else. No sooner were our plates taken away our main courses were served. It was all just too rushed to be enjoyable. I had the distinct impression that the chef wanted to finish early. On the positive side the food was very good, except for the garlic prawns which I had as a main course. They were not fresh Scottish prawns I was hoping for but frozen warm water prawns usually from Vietnam. My family all had steaks which they said were delicious. The main courses all come served on their own so you have to pay for accompanying vegetables or salad. Only once we had eaten our main course did the staff leave us without rushing us further. For the four of us having a starter, main course, vegetables and 2 carafes of wine the bill was £140.
JaneR0ss . 2016-11-21
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Everything was excellent - the food, the friendly staff, the service and the ambience - a fantastic place! The traditional pasta dishes and steaks looked really lovely, but I couldn't resist the superb fish on the 'specials' menu. Cooked to perfection and tasted glorious! We had the house white (dry), instead of my usual Pinot Grigio and that was lovely too. Thank you!
C4989PVsue . 2016-11-19
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Managed to walk in and get a table(there were two left at around 7pm on a Saturday night). Nice warm welcome from staff, efficiently took orders for drinks. The menu isn't huge, but I wouldn't expect it to be, with everything cooked from fresh. Starters delicious. The real star was the main, smoked haddock and pea risotto.....rich, creamy, satisfying, definitely comfort food for a dreary wet night! Lovely panda cotta to finish. Really lovely meal in Scotland's Food Town. Doing Castle Douglas proud, you should all congratulate yourselves on your lovely service. I will certainly come back if in the area.
zilsniggy . 2016-11-01
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Well, what can I say ?Superlatives abound.Warmly welcomed by charming staff.Authentic Italian cuisine.My starter, Crostini di Funghi, gorgeous, loving the garlic.Main we both had smoked haddock and pea risotto, delightful, topped with a parmesan crisp.Pannacotta for both as desert.Lovely pino.A must visit if in the area.
David W . 2016-10-29
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Been here twice with my partner and had two really nice meals. Staff are very friendly whilst being professional at the same time. The twice we've been in it's been very busy so it's obviously not just us who rate Carlo's. Lovely Italian food made with fresh ingredients. Would highly recommend and we will be returning.
Gordon P . 2016-10-20
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This place was just perfect for the start of a family reunion. Staff were welcoming & attentive without constantly harassing you. A great atmosphere,nice decor & just a nice feeling. The menu is extensive & freshly made which give time for talking. When the meals arrived take a few seconds to check other folks meals then decide who has the better one !! The staff are a great friendly & attentive group of girls. If in the area a definite must visit place,When we are back it will be great to return. Many thanks
copenhagen50 . 2016-10-17
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After seeing good reviews, booked a table for Saturday night, first day of our holiday. Lovely little Italian restaurant, nice atmosphere. Service was very good and meals excellent. Both main courses and desserts very good
Paul R . 2016-10-16
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A small restaurant with great Italian food. The restaurant is small but it has a great atmosphere friendly staff and reasonably priced food.
41Dovetail . 2016-10-11
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Had a lovely meal with good speedy service, and very very good food, quite unexpected. Also very reasonably priced
01banksjon . 2016-09-14
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We managed to get an early table for dinner, and would have been very happy choosing from the main menu (displayed outside) - but when we were seated we were given that day's fresh fish menu ... so we had the softest calamari in fresh breadcrumbs with a dipping sauce, mussels in an Italian tomato sauce (both with freshly baked bread), then a lemon sole that melted in the mouth and monk fish in a delicious pernod flavoured sauce. We ended up sharing everything as it all tasted so good! Out of interest, the family next to us were having pizzas and they smelled and looked amazing too (- we didn't share with them so can't confirm on flavour, ha ha!) If you know you're going to be in Castle Douglas, ring ahead and make sure of a table - you'll be glad you did.
batandball2016 . 2016-09-05
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Dropped in on the off chance we could get a table for two. Staff were very accommodating but advised that we may have to wait ten to fifteen minutes. We were pleased to do this and the service and food was excellen
430anne4444 . 2016-08-31
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The food was absolutely delicious - we all enjoyed the taste and flavours of quality ingredients beautifully cooked and the restaurant itself was a delightful place to sit.The complimentary bread and potatoes were a welcome addition to the meal as well as my son's pizza he had which isn't on the menu.To be fair we knew we had a 2 hour timetable to eat but because of the food's quality and richness we all felt it would be nice to have time to savour that - instead I ate my starter and main within the space of half an hour which left me feeling unpleasantly stuffed. There was a nice atmosphere though and the young waitress was very pleasant.
Fulltimemum . 2016-08-24
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Went to Carlos with my wife for her birthday. Staff were welcoming and very attentive without being overbearing. We both opted for the scallops from the specials menu which were beautifully done in Cointreau and cream. The steak Diane was cooked just as we ordered accompanied by sauté potatoes and mixed salad. Absolutely delicious, not normally sweet people we did decide to have creme brûlée and were not disappointed. All washed down with a fine bottle of red. Overall a fine evening which was very reasonably priced. We shall return.
Robin L . 2016-08-15
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You are greeted by really friendly staff, the quality of the food is exceptional, the service prompt and efficient, not to mention extremely good value. Just loved it.
balsall67 . 2016-08-14
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I had been looking very forward to coming to this place because when I used to live here I heard such good things but never had the chance to try it. I always had a habit of going to my favourite Italian in Dalbeattie but felt like a change was in place. The staff were very nice on arrival and took our drinks and food orders very promptly. Once receiving our starters, mine being mussels in a tomato sauce we were asked if everything was OK? I replied by saying they are a bit over cooked although it was a very polite way of saying you could have bounced them off the floor. She then replied saying do I think so and then walked off. I think I was even more annoyed by this as she was the wife of the chef and also the manageress of the restaurant. The rest of our food was a bit bland but OK for the price a but every dish was sadly bought out with her sour face plonking the plates in front of us with lot of attitude and then we were avoided for the rest of this night. For a manageress I would recommend that she learns how hospitality usually works and learns how to take some criticism. Won't be returning and in resent times neither will my friends
Loyd B . 2016-07-31
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Went to Carlos for my 40th birthday with family and friends 3 courses all fantastic my 82 year old father also enjoyed his meal so something for everyone.
stephenhouston2015 . 2016-07-25
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We had a gorgeous meal at Carlos in castle Douglas for our anniversary, service was quick and attentive, food was fresh and very tasty. Prices very reasonable and portions large, we will definitely return
195kelly . 2016-07-21
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Excellent service, staff brilliant and food great, would strongly recommend. We will return again soon
Dabby M . 2016-07-20
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It is entirely possible that Castle Douglas, despite its stirring name and the beauty of the surrounding countryside, is the dreariest town in the Borders. On the Saturday evening that we were there, the six or seven people on the long, dull main street seemed distracted by boredom, either smoking outside one of the dilapidated pubs or, if young, horsing around in dispirited gaggles in the apparent absence of any more interesting local facility. It follows that it is a bit of a culinary wilderness, but Carlo's does serve very tasty and nicely presented Italian food at reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and certainly booking is required as the restaurant appears very popular with locals. Recommended if you are marooned in Castle Douglas.
Barry Lynch . 2016-07-04
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A Scot and her Italian husband have run this restaurant for a good few years and we ate there because of other good reviews we had seen. The team were very welcoming the menu quite wide with an Italian influence. I think that bookings are taken based on the capacity of the kitchen, so it is well to book in advance and not to assume that empty tables means that you can walk straight in. We had the Chicken on a skewer, chicken with nuts and honey and the chicken with ham and cheese all of which we good although the chicken with honey and nuts was a bit light on the salad included. Everything was well cooked and presented, as were the potatoes and vegetables ordered as side dishes. I would definitely go back when in Castle Douglas.
John V . 2016-06-19
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As we live in the area and had not been to Carlo's for several years we decided to give it a go again.The food and service were good.However, the reason we do not go here often is still the reason why we will not return often. The vegetarian choice of mains is VERY limited - in fact there is only ONE vegetarian main - pasta vegetale, which has been the only vegetarian main for the 8+ years we have lived in this area. My husband is vegetarian and to have only one item on the mains to eat when visiting, doesn't lend itself to repeated visits.This is a pretty poor effort by the chef(s) on behalf of vegetarian customers, particularly as Italian cuisine lends itself to so many delicious vegetarian dishes.No doubt they would say they would cook you something else at request, but who wants to go to a restaurant, feel awkward and embarrassed by not wanting the ONE THING on the menu on offer for veggies and then have to think on your feet about what you might like to eat, when meat eaters sit down and have a wide variety to choose from?Not even a vegetarian selection on the specials!!!Come on Carlo's you can do better!!Plus, it's the third time I have been and not been served with what was described on the menu. The seafood linguini with tomatoes, cream and chilli oil (I asked for it without chilli oil) arrived without the tomatoes and cream either. On a previous visit my starter was mushrooms on a crostini and it arrived minus the crostini.No doubt as the only Italian in Castle Douglas they feel they have a captive audience and don't need to change anything/try harder?We won't be returning for a long while again.
Armandina . 2016-06-11
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Carlo's is a lovely restaurant, with an interesting menu. The food was very good and the service was very efficient, which contributed to a lovely evening.
Ken and Pat M . 2016-06-08
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My friends and I love Italian food so we were looking forward to a visit here. The food was ok, and the service was efficient enough but no warmth. Not much choice for vegetarians either. Nothing to tempt us to return.
Alentejo_2014 . 2016-06-04
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Good food and reasonably priced. Friendly staff. Place seemed busy when we were in so it's obviously popular.
Raith46 . 2016-06-04
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The food was excellent and eat was very quick. You don't need to wait 45 minutes for your dinner. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
Linelis . 2016-05-26
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Lovely food with great service . A very popular restaurant so good idea to book. Our meals were well cooked.
Anne D . 2016-05-22
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A group of 12 of us away on a golfing holiday ate here last Tuesday. Without exception the food and service were fabulous. The seafood liguni was particularly good.
geoff b . 2016-05-13
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These schedules may not be completely accurate on special days. Please always confirm with the restaurant
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624 Opinions
We took our mums for an evening meal for a Mothers day treat snd what a treat it was . Food was delicious ! The mums had the small plates and main menu was on offer too which I had the most delicious chicken noodle stir fry , it really was the best bowl of noodles that I have had . The passion fruit panacotta dessert was amazing too , ending it off with a yummy cocktail . Service was fab too as well as the food . It’s great that Lockerbie has a place to go and enjoy a delicious meal in the evening. Thank you Just Be , we had 2 very happy mums 😊
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameatWe took our mums for an evening meal for a Mothers day treat snd what a treat it was . Food was delicious ! The mums had the small plates and main menu was on offer too which I had the most delicious chicken noodle stir fry , it really was the best bowl of noodles that I have had . The passion fruit panacotta dessert was amazing too , ending it off with a yummy cocktail . Service was fab too as well as the food . It’s great that Lockerbie has a place to go and enjoy a delicious meal in the evening. Thank you Just Be , we had 2 very happy mums 😊
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameat604 Opinions
What a fantastic meal! We had such a good time and really enjoyed trying everything from the cocktails to the puddings. We would all recommend you give Mr Pooks Kitchen a visit, the food is truly outstanding.
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameat1370 Opinions
I have eaten here several times but this has to be the best experience. We arrived to celebrate my big sister's birthday and were given a warm welcome. The first thing we noticed was the new decor which is a big improvement. I had Brill served with seasonal vegetables , all of which were perfectly cooked and presented and tasted delicious. A special mention must go the onions rings which were beautifully crisp. We had some Pinot Grigio for the wine which was crisp and dry. For pudding I took rice pudding with red fruits -again a hit.The service was very good and at £185 for 5 people , reasonably priced
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameatI have eaten here several times but this has to be the best experience. We arrived to celebrate my big sister's birthday and were given a warm welcome. The first thing we noticed was the new decor which is a big improvement. I had Brill served with seasonal vegetables , all of which were perfectly cooked and presented and tasted delicious. A special mention must go the onions rings which were beautifully crisp. We had some Pinot Grigio for the wine which was crisp and dry. For pudding I took rice pudding with red fruits -again a hit.The service was very good and at £185 for 5 people , reasonably priced
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameat44 Opinions
We were having lunch in the restaurant. The service was attentive and friendly and prompt delivery of the pre meal was made. The menu offered a good range of options at £30 for two course. The starters were enjoyed by all with particular praise for the mussels dish. For the main course the roast beef was welcome. I had the fish and chips which were well presented but with one concern. Why serve the dish with chopped up garden peas. There should at least have been a choice of mushy peas. Finally the coffee which was an espresso but it had no crema -unforgivable All in all a good experience
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameatWe were having lunch in the restaurant. The service was attentive and friendly and prompt delivery of the pre meal was made. The menu offered a good range of options at £30 for two course. The starters were enjoyed by all with particular praise for the mussels dish. For the main course the roast beef was welcome. I had the fish and chips which were well presented but with one concern. Why serve the dish with chopped up garden peas. There should at least have been a choice of mushy peas. Finally the coffee which was an espresso but it had no crema -unforgivable All in all a good experience
mustspicycookedsteakfilletgarlicfishchickenmushroomspastasteakscreamscallopspizzameat