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Carasau Pasta Bar
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Carasau Pasta Bar
7.7
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden Gems Heaven
Business Lunch Power Players
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Carasau Pasta Bar is a counter-service Italian spot on 3rd where housemade pasta shares the menu with focaccia sandwiches layered with burrata, prosciutto, and grilled vegetables. It works as a casual lunch or early dinner stop when you want something more composed than a basic deli sub but still quick.
Must-Try Dishes:
Burrata & Prosciutto Sandwich, Chicken Sandwich on focaccia, Veggie Sandwich with pesto
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: Housemade Italian sandwiches on fresh focaccia in a casual pasta bar setting.
Who should go: Pasta and panini fans wanting casual but upgraded Italian.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners before the dinner rush.
What to order: Burrata & prosciutto sandwich, veggie focaccia, chopped salad.
Insider tip: Ask for extra pesto on the focaccia sandwiches for more punch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 3rd Street and nearby residential blocks; meters can be competitive during lunch but turnover is steady. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — most guests come in everyday wear; business-casual is common during lunch hours.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch; still easy enough for conversation since it’s a small counter-service space.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait since dinner traffic is lighter; 5–10 minutes at most.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait unless hitting peak noon rush, typically 5–10 minutes for ordering.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple sandwiches and salads built around grilled vegetables, burrata, and pesto.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of veggie-forward options can be modified, but most sandwiches rely on cheese.
Gluten-free options: Some bowls and salads can avoid gluten, but focaccia sandwiches and pastas are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can work for a casual daytime date — the counter-service setup keeps things low-pressure, but it's not ideal if you're looking for a more atmospheric or linger-friendly setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations and operate as counter-service; seating is first come, first served with generally quick turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy pasta or simple sandwiches. There’s limited space, though, so strollers may be challenging during crowded lunch hours.
Best For
Better for: A more composed, Italian-leaning sandwich experience than basic delis — especially for burrata lovers or anyone wanting fresher ingredients and homemade elements.
Skip if: You want a true sit-down restaurant experience, large portions, or vegan/gluten-free flexibility; in those cases a dedicated cafe or deli may be a better fit.
Carasau Pasta Bar
7.7
Carasau Pasta Bar is a fast-casual counter spot where you mix-and-match housemade pasta and sauces, with a meaty baked lasagna that regulars call out as a highlight. It’s a low-frills, quick-service option for fresh pasta in Beverly Grove without a full sit-down commitment.
Must-Try Dishes:
House lasagna with slow-cooked meat sauce, Rigatoni with spicy arrabbiata, Fettuccine Alfredo with add-on meatballs
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Scratch-made, customizable pasta and lasagna in a true counter-service format.
Who should go: Solo diners and quick, casual pasta seekers.
When to visit: Weeknights for easy parking and shorter walk-up lines.
What to order: Lasagna, fettuccine with pesto, tiramisu.
Insider tip: Portions are generous—split a lasagna and one custom pasta.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Beverly Blvd and side streets; usually manageable but tighter after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Ultra-casual—jeans, tees, and come-as-you-are are all perfectly fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—it's a small counter spot, but you can easily hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on walk-up traffic; lines move quickly due to counter service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even at peak hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several sauces and pasta shapes are vegetarian, and they occasionally run veggie-focused specials.
Vegan options: Limited—some pasta shapes may qualify, but most sauces contain dairy or egg; ask staff for the day's vegan-friendly combo.
Gluten-free options: Limited—no dedicated gluten-free pasta, so cross-contact is likely. Not ideal for strict GF diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're aiming for casual and low-pressure—it's counter service, quick, and not romantic. Great for a relaxed meet-up, not ideal for an intimate night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is limited but tables turn fast, so expect a short wait at most during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—pasta is universally friendly, and the casual setup works well for families. Best for ages 5+ since seating is tight and there’s no dedicated kid’s menu.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable, housemade pasta without committing to a full-service restaurant. Ideal for solo diners and casual carb cravings.
Skip if: You want a long, leisurely meal, a wide wine list, or gluten-free pasta—opt for a full-service Italian spot instead.