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WL Reader Restaurant Review Original Steakhouse April, 2008 The facility is very family friendly and casual. The restaurant has wood all around which makes for a welcoming and rustic atmosphere, but makes the noise level VERY high. If you are looking for a quiet time, this is NOT your place. The noise level is constantly high during peak times. My guest and I both had the 7oz Filet Mignion cooked medium rare. This comes with a salad and choice of a side dish. Their salads are wonderful, but I would recommend asking for the dressing on the side, as they are a bit heavy with the dressings. Her steak was cooked perfectly, however mine was between raw and rare and had sinew - not something a top cut should contain. When I brought it to the attention of the waitress, she promptly brought it to the attention of the manager. They were quick to remedy the situation without question, I was very impressed with this service. I accept the fact that things can go wrong in ones dining experience. How the staff handles such problems determines the likelihood of my return as well as my positive or negative recommendation of an establishment. The food we had was very good and the service was excellent, especially in such a crowded situation. We each had a glass of their house Merlot, which was Cooperidge - an inexpensive favorite wine of mine - very bold flavor for a Merlot. The noise level was a bit much for both my guest and myself, so if that is an issue, you might want to go at an off hour. On the flip side, I would imagine the high noise level would actually be an enhancement for watching sporting events, especially with all the TVs in the place. As it's name states, it is the Original Steakhouse "and Sports Bar". Carrabba's Italian Grill Carrabba's is our favorite restaurant in the area. I wish there were more that were as impressive in the Woodbrige area. I can't say enough good things about this place, the total experience is great. The ambiance is wonderful (but dark). The food is simply the best. It's always fresh, hot, and served at a prompt but casual pace. There is nothing on the menu I would not recommend. The Calamari is the best we've had, and we try Calamari every place we can. Their bread is terrific too, very fresh. They put some herbs and olive oil on a plate for you to dip your bread. It's a perfect place to have an intimate dinner with that special someone or a great place to take a large group. The staff are very attentive and friendly. This is the place we always bring our out of town guests, and we have never been disappointed. One time we took a group there and someone ordered a meal that they ended up not serving us because they felt it was not up to their standards. They allowed us to order a more expensive substitute for the same price and gave us two free desserts for the inconvenience. It is simply amazing that this is a chain restaurant because you do not get that feeling whatsoever, whether it be the atmosphere, the food, or the staff. Their food tastes as good as homemade. They have been very consistent in their food and their service. Oh and if you want to learn Italian, they pump in Italian lessons into the bathrooms. Expect to wait, if you go at peak times, as they are always packed. They do have Carside Carry Out service where they bring your order to your car, if you won't be dining in. ~~Kevin~ See Woodbridge Living's review of Carrabas here.
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