Wine Bar
Unclaimed profileCarrabba's Italian Grill
Chesapeake, VA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Carrabba's Italian Grill in runs a beverage program that punches above its casual-dining weight. The cocktail list spans classics and creative seasonal spritzes, with a Wood-Fire Old Fashioned that brings theatrics to bourbon. The wine program is expansive, covering Italy, California, and beyond, and monthly wine dinners add a structured way to explore regional pairings. Spirit-free options are thoughtfully priced, and the beer list covers domestic and import basics. It's a comfortable, generous pour.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Wood-Fire Old Fashioned, smoked with oak over a colossal ice cube. For something lighter, the Hugo Spritz mixes St~Germain with Riondo Prosecco. Wine drinkers should consider a glass of DAOU Cabernet or a bottle of Caymus for special occasions.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Guests who want a reliable pour of familiar cocktails and a serious wine list without leaving a chain's comfort zone. Wine dinner enthusiasts will appreciate the monthly regional events. Groups with mixed preferences—from spirit-free drinkers to bourbon fans—will all find something
- When should I go?
- Monthly wine dinners offer a structured evening for wine-focused occasions.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $5.99 for spirit-free options to $12.99 for premium pours. Wines start around $7.99 for a 6-ounce glass, with premium bottles like Caymus at $104. Wine dinners are $60 per person.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Wood-Fire Old Fashioned, smoked with oak and served over a colossal ice cube, adds a theatrical touch. The wine program's breadth—from Santa Margherita to Caymus—and monthly wine dinners set it apart from typical casual Italian chains.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A broad list covering classics, spritzes, and seasonal specials, with a few premium touches.
Menu strengths
- — Use of premium spirits like Tito's, Maker's Mark, and Código 1530.
Standout selections
- — Wood-Fire Old Fashioned – Maker's Mark bourbon, Angostura bitters, oak-smoked, colossal ice cube.
- — Hugo Spritz – St~Germain, fresh mint, Riondo Prosecco.
- — Amalfi Margarita – Código 1530 tequila, Italicus, basil syrup.
Pricing: $5.99 to $12.99
Wine
Extensive list with global regions and multiple serving sizes. Premium labels like Caymus and DAOU elevate the program. Monthly wine dinners add depth.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse regions including Italy, California, France, and New Zealand.
- — Wine dinners priced at $60 per person with multi-course pairings.
Standout selections
- — Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, 1L bottle.
- — DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon – Paso Robles, available by glass or bottle.
- — Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio – Italian white, multiple sizes.
Pricing: $7.99 to $104 per bottle
Beer
Standard domestic, craft, and imported bottled beers, plus non-alcoholic options. No pricing details or standout selections.
Menu strengths
- — Includes non-alcoholic options like Peroni 0.0 and Michelob ULTRA Zero.
Pricing: No specific prices retrieved
Nonalcoholic
A handful of spirit-free cocktails with fresh ingredients, plus non-alcoholic beer. Substitutions at wine dinners show flexibility.
Menu strengths
- — Three spirit-free cocktails at a low price point.
Standout selections
- — Blackberry Spritzer – blackberries, cranberry juice, sparkling water.
- — Amalfi Cooler – house-made sour, basil syrup, lime, sparkling water.
- — Prickly Pear Punch – lemonade, habanero lime, prickly pear.
Pricing: $5.99 for spirit-free cocktails
Spirits
Premium spirits are used throughout the cocktail program, but no standalone spirits list or tasting menu exists. The evidence is indirect.
Menu strengths
- — Use of premium brands like Tito's, Maker's Mark, Código 1530, and Hendrick's.
Pricing: No dedicated spirits pricing
How it sits with the food
Seasonal wine pairings are suggested for menu items, and the wine dinner pairs each course with regional wines. The Amalfi Margarita's basil syrup would complement grilled seafood, while the Wood-Fire Old Fashioned suits rich, savory dishes.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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