Over the past few weeks, my coworker Ashley and I have frequented a nice Italian restaurant close to our office. Ashley is already a regular, greeted with a smile at the door, and the more I go to Carlucci’s, the more I feel like a regular myself.

Carlucci’s is an unassuming restaurant hidden next to Kohl’s in a nearby shopping center, but don’t let this fool you. Some of the most interesting flavors I’ve experienced in this town have come from its kitchen.

The restaurant is beautifully furnished. The back patio is neatly organized with plenty of space and heat lamps for when it gets cold. On my last trip to Carlucci’s, I had a fresh mozzarella and grilled chicken wrap, but the interesting thing is it was wrapped in a piece of white pizza!

They have a fantastic website, better than most local restaurants. They also have a selection of catering trays, as well as great gluten-free options. Carlucci’s is BYOB so if you have a favorite bottle, be sure to bring it.

I am a big fan of hospitality and flavor, and Carlucci’s is not short on either. The more I visit and the more of the menu I try, it is safe to say Carlucci’s created a few long-term customers with its service and craft.

— Andrew Risch, digital coordinator/account executive