Tucked away in the heart of Philadelphia lies a delightful Italian restaurant that truly delivers on flavor and ambiance: Trattoria Carina.

From the moment you step into this cozy eatery, you’ll be enveloped by its warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with rustic décor and friendly service.
But the true stars of the show are the menu items, with the homemade meatballs, cacio e pepe, and Holy Cannoli Budino stealing the spotlight.
Apps

As a true Italian culinary experience, Trattoria Carina’s homemade meatballs do not disappoint. Prepared with a delicious blend of meats and spices, these generously sized meatballs are cooked to perfection, tender and juicy on the inside, with a slightly crisp exterior. The savory tomato sauce complements the meatballs wonderfully, resulting in a delightful symphony of flavors. This is a must-try dish for any meatball enthusiast.
Pasta

The cacio e pepe, a Roman classic, is a seemingly simple pasta dish that speaks volumes about the skill of Trattoria Carina’s chefs. The al dente spaghetti is expertly tossed with a creamy and rich sauce made from pecorino cheese, black pepper, and just the right amount of butter. The result is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. This dish truly demonstrates that sometimes, less is more.
Dessert
Last but not least, the Holy Cannoli Budino is a dessert that lives up to its divine name. The traditional Italian custard is given a modern twist with the addition of crushed cannoli shells, giving the dessert an interesting and delightful crunch. The rich and creamy budino is perfectly balanced with a light and airy whipped cream, while the chocolate chips and candied orange peel provide an extra layer of flavor and texture. This is the kind of dessert that will make you want to save room no matter how full you may be.
My Recommendation
Trattoria Carina in Philadelphia is a charming and authentic Italian gem that delivers on both taste and atmosphere. From the homemade meatballs to the cacio e pepe and the divine Holy Cannoli Budino, the menu items showcase the skill and passion of the chefs. They are amazing with kids too. Our little guy was treated like a king the whole meal and he begs to go back all the time.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Trattoria Carina is the perfect spot for a memorable Italian meal.