Carluccio’s is a beloved Italian restaurant chain known for its authentic Italian cuisine, warm atmosphere, and affordable prices. Their lunch menu offers a wide range of delicious dishes inspired by Italy’s rich culinary traditions.
Whether you crave a light pasta, a hearty risotto, or a fresh salad, Carluccio’s lunch menu caters to all tastes and appetites.
This article explores Carluccio’s lunch menu in detail, with up-to-date prices, descriptions, and suggestions to enhance your dining experience. From starters to desserts, you’ll find everything you need to make an informed choice for your midday meal.
“At Carluccio’s, lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Italy’s vibrant flavors and culinary heritage.”
Starters
Starting your lunch at Carluccio’s with one of their expertly crafted starters sets the tone for an enjoyable meal. The starters range from light and fresh to rich and savory, ideal to share or enjoy on your own.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bruschetta al Pomodoro | Grilled bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. | £5.95 |
| Calamari Fritti | Crispy fried squid rings served with a zesty lemon mayonnaise. | £7.50 |
| Antipasto Misto | A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. | £8.95 |
| Soup of the Day | Seasonal homemade soup served with rustic Italian bread. | £4.95 |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh buffalo mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. | £6.95 |
Each starter is designed to bring authentic Italian flavors to your plate. The Bruschetta al Pomodoro is a classic choice that perfectly balances freshness and simplicity.
Meanwhile, the Calamari Fritti is a favorite for those who enjoy seafood with a crunchy texture.
Main Courses
The main courses at Carluccio’s showcase Italian culinary staples, including pasta, risotto, and meat dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The lunch menu is thoughtfully priced to offer great value without compromising quality.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti Carbonara | Spaghetti with pancetta, eggs, Parmesan, and black pepper. | £10.95 |
| Tagliatelle al Ragu | Fresh tagliatelle pasta with slow-cooked beef and tomato ragu sauce. | £11.50 |
| Risotto ai Funghi | Creamy risotto with wild mushrooms and Parmesan cheese. | £12.25 |
| Pollo alla Griglia | Grilled chicken breast served with rosemary potatoes and seasonal vegetables. | £13.95 |
| Lasagne al Forno | Traditional oven-baked lasagne layered with meat sauce, béchamel, and Parmesan. | £11.95 |
| Insalata di Tonno | Mixed salad with tuna, red onion, olives, and a lemon dressing. | £9.95 |
The Spaghetti Carbonara is one of Carluccio’s signature dishes, loved for its creamy texture and bold flavors. Meanwhile, the Risotto ai Funghi offers a comforting, earthy taste that perfectly complements the Italian tradition of risotto-making.
For those who prefer meat, the Pollo alla Griglia is a wholesome option that balances protein and vegetables beautifully. It’s a hearty dish perfect for a satisfying lunch.
“Every main course at Carluccio’s is a tribute to Italy’s diverse regional cuisines, crafted with passion and authenticity.”
Sandwiches and Light Bites
Carluccio’s also offers a selection of sandwiches and light bites ideal for a quicker or lighter lunch. These options maintain the high-quality ingredients and Italian flair the restaurant is known for.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Panino Caprese | Ciabatta sandwich with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and pesto. | £7.50 |
| Prosciutto e Formaggio | Ciabatta filled with Italian ham and melted cheese. | £8.00 |
| Focaccia al Rosmarino | Rosemary focaccia bread served warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. | £4.95 |
| Arancini di Riso | Crispy fried saffron rice balls stuffed with mozzarella and meat ragù. | £6.95 |
These light bites are perfect for those who want a flavorful lunch without feeling overly full. The Panino Caprese is a vibrant choice bursting with fresh Italian ingredients.
On the other hand, the Arancini di Riso provides a crunchy, cheesy indulgence that transports you straight to Sicily.
Salads
Fresh, crisp salads are a highlight of Carluccio’s lunch menu. These are prepared with seasonal ingredients and house-made dressings, offering a refreshing break from heavier dishes.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Insalata Cesare | Classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing. | £7.95 |
| Insalata di Rucola e Parmigiano | Rocket salad with shaved Parmesan, pine nuts, and lemon dressing. | £6.95 |
| Insalata di Pollo | Grilled chicken salad with mixed leaves, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze. | £9.50 |
| Insalata Caprese | Buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. | £7.50 |
Salads at Carluccio’s are more than just a side dish—they’re thoughtfully prepared with premium ingredients that stand on their own. The Insalata di Pollo is a popular choice for those who want the freshness of a salad with the added protein of grilled chicken.
Desserts
No Italian meal is complete without a sweet finish. Carluccio’s dessert menu features classic Italian treats that delight all senses.
From creamy gelatos to indulgent cakes, each dessert provides the perfect ending to your lunch.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tiramisu | Layered coffee-flavored dessert with mascarpone and cocoa dusting. | £5.95 |
| Panna Cotta | Silky smooth vanilla panna cotta served with berry compote. | £5.50 |
| Gelato Selection | Choose from vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio gelato. | £4.95 |
| Profiteroles | Choux pastry filled with cream, topped with warm chocolate sauce. | £6.25 |
| Chocolate Fondant | Warm chocolate cake with a gooey center, served with vanilla ice cream. | £6.75 |
The Tiramisu at Carluccio’s is a must-try for anyone who loves traditional Italian desserts. Its rich yet delicate layers embody the essence of Italian dolce vita.
For a lighter option, the Panna Cotta offers a creamy texture balanced by the tart sweetness of berries.
Drinks to Complement Your Lunch
Carluccio’s offers a handpicked selection of drinks designed to complement the flavors of their lunch dishes. From Italian wines to refreshing soft drinks, their beverage menu enhances every meal.
| Drink | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Red Wine (Glass) | Rich and full-bodied red from Tuscany. | £6.50 |
| Italian White Wine (Glass) | Crisp and fresh white from Veneto region. | £6.00 |
| Espresso | Strong and authentic Italian coffee. | £2.50 |
| Italian Lemonade | Refreshing lemon soda with a hint of mint. | £3.25 |
| Mineral Water | Still or sparkling. | £2.50 |
Enjoying a glass of Italian red wine with your Tagliatelle al Ragu or a refreshing lemonade alongside your Panino Caprese adds a delightful dimension to your lunch experience.
Why Choose Carluccio’s for Lunch?
Carluccio’s lunch menu stands out for its balance of authenticity, variety, and value. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from Italy and locally where possible.
The menu is thoughtfully curated to offer something for everyone, from vegetarian options to hearty meat dishes.
The warm and inviting atmosphere of Carluccio’s makes it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and special occasions. Their staff are knowledgeable and passionate about Italian food, often happy to provide recommendations or adjust dishes to suit dietary needs.
“Dining at Carluccio’s is like taking a brief, delicious journey through Italy, right in the heart of the city.”
Tips for Ordering Lunch at Carluccio’s
To make the most of your Carluccio’s lunch experience, consider the following tips:
- Try the lunch specials: Many locations offer set lunch menus or specials that provide great value.
- Pair dishes thoughtfully: For example, pair lighter starters with richer mains to balance your meal.
- Ask about seasonal dishes: Carluccio’s often features seasonal items that showcase fresh, local produce.
- Don’t skip dessert: Italian desserts here are authentic and made fresh daily.
- Consider dietary preferences: The menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options; just ask your server for guidance.
Conclusion
Carluccio’s lunch menu is a wonderful representation of classic Italian cooking with a modern twist. With dishes ranging from simple, fresh starters to sumptuous mains and delightful desserts, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely meal, Carluccio’s offers a warm ambiance, quality food, and excellent service. Their transparent pricing and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine during the midday hours.
Next time you’re in the mood for Italian, explore Carluccio’s lunch menu to discover your new favorite dish.
