Johnny Carino's - El Paso

We were hesitant about going in because of all the bad reviews on service. But I'm glad we went in. Our experience with the service was excellent!!! Our waitresses name was Candy. She was very attentive and polite. And the food was great!! We ordered a Lemon Basil shrimp tortellini. Super tasty and filling! Give it a try!

I didn't expect much from Italian in El Paso but didn't want bbq Mexican or steak. Prices at this restaurant are reasonable but the food was average. The lasagna portion wasn't overly generous and the meatballs side were not worth the price. Taste was okay but nothing notable. Since this is a chain I'm certain it was made at some central facility. Of course I can't prove that so can only say it tasted like it. The sauce was a bit acidic and plain. The meatballs were hard and bland with a texture like previously frozen ones. Or they were over baked. Both items were hot when I got them which is a plus for takeaway. On the plus side Josh taking phone orders was awesome and really represented the restaurant well. In the end my meal wasn't bad just not noteworthy. In the current market it was probably appropriate for the price. I was full when done.

We came for an early dinner so there wasn't a lot of people and we were seated quickly. The service is adequate and the food arrived in a timely manner. The bread with the garlic oil and vinegar is fantastic but the pasta is just above average, although I must admit my husband did have a lot of seafood with his pasta. Because it was early the place was quiet but I would imagine it can get lively later in the evening. Although we are just visiting this fair city, we might come back.

Love their bread with roasted garlic oil! The pecan chicken salad was good but too much dressing (I forgot to ask for it on the side so my bad). The green chile lasagna was okay but wished it had been spicier. The tiramisu was average. So sad to learn they no longer make the Italian Chile Soup. We used to love that. Please please bring it back!

I was looking forward to eating at Johnny Carinos since we were passing through El Paso for the day and they've pretty much close most of the California locations. Well, now I know why the low rating. Service was subpar for a not very busy Saturday night. Food was not as good as I remembered. They can't even serve you a decent glass/plastic cup of water. My first water served, and not even glass but a plastic (see pic) had a bad chip on it. So, i politely asked for another one, low behold I got the twin fake glass with the same chip. I guess the don't really care since it's plastic. I was just expecting better quality than that. I know it's just water but, come one. Oh and we had left overs and they only have a mini take out container so you can image how many mini containers we ended up with.