At Ristorante Roma in Carmel’s Arts & Design District, beef-filled ravioli arrive with pistachio-infused cream sauce and diced filet mignon. It’s a particularly rich expression of the restaurant’s handmade-pasta focus, and a dish singled out in diner feedback. The family-owned restaurant pairs its Italian cooking with a cozy, intimate setting and outdoor seating.
The restaurant’s website also showcases pappardelle with Italian sausage, champignon mushrooms and cream sauce, plus fettuccine with tomato, cream, vodka and basil-infused Parmesan. Seafood takes another route: sautéed shrimp and scallops join pasta with tomato sauce and basil pesto. Beyond pasta, there are baked Brussels sprouts with pecorino and house balsamic reduction, and filet mignon served on grilled bread with mustard and balsamic reduction.
Diners repeatedly praise the warm atmosphere and attentive service, including servers who explain dishes and offer recommendations. Wine selection is another recurring strength in their accounts. Tiramisu and an espresso martini, pictured together on the restaurant’s website, offer a dessert-and-cocktail finish; beer, coffee and vegetarian options are also offered.
Ristorante Roma is at 89 Veterans Wy, Carmel. Dinner runs Monday through Thursday from 4:45 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Reservations are offered through OpenTable, and takeout and delivery are available.